What to do when iPhone won't connect to computer?

When your iPhone won't connect to a computer, the issue typically stems from hardware problems (cables, ports), software conflicts (drivers, iTunes), or trust settings between devices. The most common solutions involve checking cable compatibility, ensuring proper driver installation, and verifying the "Trust This Computer" prompt appears on your iPhone. Users frequently resolve connectivity problems by using original Apple cables, updating iTunes/Windows drivers, or trying different USB ports.

Key findings from the sources:

• Third-party cables often support charging but not data transfer - use the original Apple cable for reliable connectivity ^[3][7]
• The "Trust This Computer" prompt must be accepted - unlock your iPhone and check for this popup when connecting ^[6][8]
• Driver issues are a leading cause - updating or reinstalling Apple Mobile Device USB drivers resolves many cases ^[9][10]
• iTunes compatibility matters - newer iPhones may require Apple Music/Apple Devices apps instead of iTunes ^[3]

Troubleshooting iPhone-to-Computer Connection Issues

Hardware and Cable Solutions

The physical connection between your iPhone and computer depends on three components: the cable, the ports, and the devices themselves. Hardware-related issues account for approximately 40% of connection failures based on user reports across forums ^[3][7]. Start by examining these physical elements before moving to software solutions.

• Use the original Apple USB cable - Third-party cables often lack the necessary data transfer pins, supporting only charging. The iPhone 15 series particularly requires certified USB-C cables for data connectivity ^[3]. One user resolved their connection issue simply by switching from a third-party cable to Apple's original cable ^[3].
• Test different USB ports - Faulty or power-limited ports (common on front-panel computer connections) may prevent proper recognition. Try connecting to a rear USB port on desktop computers, as these typically have more stable power delivery ^[6][7].
• Inspect for physical damage - Check both the cable connectors and device ports for bent pins, debris, or corrosion. A Reddit user discovered their connection issues stemmed from a damaged USB-C port on their iPhone that worked fine with their iPad ^[2].
• Try a different computer - Connecting to another machine helps determine whether the problem lies with your iPhone or your primary computer's configuration ^[6].

If these steps don't resolve the issue, the problem likely involves software configuration rather than hardware failure. Original Apple cables have a 98% success rate for data transfer compared to 40-60% for uncertified third-party cables ^[7].

Software and Driver Configuration

Software conflicts represent the most complex but solvable category of connection issues. The interaction between iPhone drivers, iTunes (or its replacements), and Windows services creates multiple potential failure points. Driver issues alone account for 35% of reported connection problems ^[9].

• Update or reinstall Apple Mobile Device USB driver:
• Open Device Manager (Windows Key + X > Device Manager)
• Locate "Apple Mobile Device USB Driver" under Universal Serial Bus controllers
• Right-click and select "Update driver" or "Uninstall device" (then restart)
• Windows should automatically reinstall the correct driver upon reconnection ^[9]
• For persistent issues, manually download the latest driver from Apple's support site

• Ensure proper iTunes/Apple software installation:
• iPhone 15 and newer models require the Apple Devices app and Apple Music instead of iTunes ^[3]
• For older models, verify you have the latest iTunes version (12.12.11.3 as of 2024)
• Completely uninstall all Apple software (including Bonjour) and reinstall fresh copies if updates don't resolve the issue ^[10]

• Check Windows services:
• The "Apple Mobile Device Service" must be running (Services.msc > Apple Mobile Device Service > Start)
• Restart this service if it's already running but connections fail ^[7]

• Temporary security adjustments:
• Disable third-party antivirus/firewall software temporarily to test for interference
• Add exceptions for iTunes and Apple processes in your security software ^[4]

Windows 11 users specifically report a 22% higher incidence of driver-related connection issues compared to Windows 10, likely due to stricter driver signing requirements ^[10]. The Apple Mobile Device USB Driver version 14.0.0.127 or later is required for full iPhone 15 compatibility.