How to transfer photos from an iPhone or Android phone to your Windows 11 PC
Transferring photos from an iPhone or Android phone to your Windows 11 PC copies your pictures and videos onto your computer.
This photo transfer feature lets you keep your phone memories safe on your Windows 11 PC, organize the photos, or edit them using Windows 11 software.
You can connect your phone directly to your PC with a USB cable. This method works for most iPhones and Android phones running Android 10 or newer.
Your phone will usually ask for permission to let your PC see its photos and videos. After you grant permission, your phone shows up in Windows 11 like a USB drive, making it easy to copy files.
Connect your unlocked phone to your PC using a data-transfer USB cable. Open the Windows Photos app, click Import, select your phone, choose your photos, and wait for the transfer to complete.
Method 1Using a USB Cable
Connecting your phone with a USB cable is a reliable method for transferring photos to your Windows 11 PC. This connection functions much like plugging in a standard USB drive, allowing your phone to be recognized as a storage device.
Get the Right Cable
Grab the right cable. You’ll need one that came with your phone or is designed for data transfer. Some cheaper cables only handle charging, and won’t let your computer see your files.
Connect Your Phone
Plug one end of the USB cable into your phone and the other end into a USB port on your computer. Plug it directly into your computer, rather than a USB hub, for the most reliable connection.
Unlock Your Phone
Open the Photos App on Your PC
Click the Start button (that's the Windows logo, typically in the bottom-left corner). Type Photos and select the Photos app from the list. This app helps you manage pictures and videos on Windows.
Start Importing
In the Photos app, find and click the Import button. It's usually near the top right. Your connected phone should appear in the list. Select your phone.
Choose Your Photos
The Photos app will look for pictures and videos on your phone. You'll see them and can choose which ones you want to copy to your computer. You can select many at once.
Wait for the Transfer
Give your computer and phone a few moments to find everything and move the files. This can take time depending on how many items you're moving and how fast your USB connection is.
References:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/apps/photos/import-photos-and-videos-from-phone-to-pc
Summary
To transfer photos using a USB cable:
- Use a data-transfer USB cable.
- Connect your phone to your PC and unlock your phone.
- Open the Windows Photos app and click Import.
- Select your phone and choose the photos you want to transfer.
- Wait for the files to copy over.
What is the easiest way to transfer photos from PC to PC?
The easiest way to move photos between PCs is using a USB flash drive or an external hard drive. Simply copy your photos onto the drive from the first PC, then plug the drive into the second PC and copy them over. It's like using a digital filing cabinet.
How do I transfer pictures from my gallery to my computer?
Connect your phone to your computer using a USB cable. Your phone should appear on your PC like a drive. Open it, find your photo gallery folder, and copy the pictures you want to your computer. You might need to tap 'Allow' on your phone to give permission.
Why can't I transfer photos to my computer?
Make sure you are using a USB cable that supports data transfer, not just charging. Also, check your phone's screen for a prompt asking to allow your computer to access files. You must tap 'Allow' or 'Grant Permission' for the transfer to work.
How do I transfer old photos onto my computer?
If your old photos are on a phone, connect it to your PC with a USB cable and copy them over. If they are on physical photos, you'll need a scanner to digitize them first. Once scanned, you can save the digital files to your computer.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!