How to transfer photos from your phone to a computer

Save your phone photos to your computer for safekeeping or to free up space on your phone.

Medium 5 steps all ~8 min February 23, 2026

Step 1: Connect your phone to the computer

Plug your phone’s charging cable into your phone and into a USB port on your computer. Your phone may ask you to trust this computer — tap Trust or Allow.

Step 2: Open the photos on your computer

On Windows: A notification may appear asking what to do. Click Import photos. Or open File Explorer and look for your phone under This PC.

On Mac with iPhone: The Photos app opens automatically. Click Import All to transfer all new photos.

On Mac with Android: Download the Android File Transfer app. Open it and navigate to the DCIM folder.

Step 3: Select the photos you want

Browse through the photos. Select the ones you want to save to your computer. You can select all or just specific photos.

Step 4: Copy to your computer

Drag the selected photos to a folder on your computer (like Pictures or Desktop). Or click Import if using the Photos app.

Step 5: Verify and disconnect

Open the folder on your computer to make sure your photos are there. Once confirmed, safely disconnect your phone by unplugging the cable.

Frequently asked questions

Will the photos be deleted from my phone?

No. Transferring copies the photos to your computer. The originals stay on your phone unless you delete them manually.

What cable do I need?

Use the charging cable that came with your phone. Plug the USB end into your computer and the other end into your phone.

Can I do this wirelessly?

Yes. You can email photos to yourself, use Google Photos, iCloud, or AirDrop (iPhone to Mac). But a cable is the fastest and easiest method for many photos.

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