If you’re attempting to transfer photos and other files from your iOS device (iPhone) to a computer with a Windows operating system and find that the PC doesn’t show anything is saved on the iOS device, check out these troubleshooting tips below:
- Check the Connection
You can try another cord, another USB port on the computer, or a different computer. For more help on connecting the device read here: https://www.helpcloud.com/internal/internal-cef0f1e9ad6514e7039fa04b6ff5b850/
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* Note: these are affiliate links, we will make a small commission if you purchase these on Amazon. - Trust the Device and Authorize the Computer
Trust the device: Your phone may be asking for your permission to connect.
Unlock the device and enter your pin/password if needed.
On the pop up notification, select “Trust this Device”.
Authorize the Device: Your computer may need to get authorized to access the iPhone data.
Connect the phone to the computer, then open iTunes.
In your toolbar located at the top of the window, tap “Account” then “Authorization”.
There you’ll select “Authorize this computer”.
Finally, you’ll be asked to enter your username and password when you go back and open the DCIM folder. - Reset Location & Privacy
Another possible solution is to reset the phones Location & Privacy in Settings:
On your phone go to Settings > General.
Scroll down to the bottom and choose “Reset”.
Tap on “Reset Location & Privacy” and then you will be asked to enter the passcode. Tap “Reset Settings” to confirm. - Download via iCloud Photos Library
All the photos you take with your iPhone or iPad can be synced and stored in iCloud with the option of not storing the files on your device. This means the photos aren’t saved on any of the devices, but instead is downloaded instantly each time you go to access it. This can be why it shows nothing is actually saved.
To fix this, on your phone you’ll go to Settings > iCloud > Photos
Check “Download and Keep Originals” to download the photos from iCloud back to the iPhone.
Then connect the iPhone to the computer again to check whether the photos show up in the DCIM folder. - Reinstall iTunes, Install Updates
If none of these options work, one last thing you can try is reinstalling your software or checking for any software updates that are waiting to be installed. Reboot your PC and connect the phone to try again.
Watch our tutorials on how to transfer your iPhone (or other iOS device) files to a computer with Windows:
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