How to Transfer Files from iPhone to PC Without iTunes: 5 Easy Methods

Transferring files from an iPhone to a PC is something many users do every day, whether to back up important data, free up space on the phone, or edit files on a larger screen. Many people avoid using iTunes because it can be confusing, slow, and sometimes causes accidental data loss. So is it possible to transfer files from an iPhone to a PC without iTunes? Absolutely. In this article, we will walk you through five simple and fast methods to move files from your iPhone to a PC without using iTunes.

Part 1. How to Transfer Files from iPhone to PC Without iTunes in One Click

Coolmuster iOS Assistant, one of the best iPhone transfer software, is designed for users who want to break free from the limitations of iTunes. It supports exporting various types of data from the iPhone, such as contacts, messages, photos, videos, music, and more, to a computer with just one click. It also allows you to import data from the computer back to the iPhone. Whether you need to back up your data or manage the data on your device, it provides stable and efficient services with a simple operation process, making it suitable for all user groups.

Key features of iOS Assistant:

• Transfer files from iPhone to PC without iTunes in one click.
• Support numerous types of files, including photos, videos, music, contacts, messages, and more.
• Transfer data from your computer to your iDevice without data loss.
• Choose specific files that you want to transfer to the PC, rather than transferring all files at once.
• Offer one-click backup and restore options for iPhone data.
• Easily edit, add, or delete data stored on your iOS device directly from your PC/Mac.
• No data loss during the transfer process.
• Compatible with multiple iOS devices, including iPhones, iPads, and iPods.

Here is how to transfer iPhone to PC without iTunes via iOS Assistant:

01Download and Install iOS Assistant on your PC. Then, launch it.

Free Download for PC

 

Free Download for Mac

02Connect your iPhone to the PC using a USB cable and trust the computer when prompted on your iPhone. Once your iPhone is detected by iOS Assistant, the software will display a summary of your device's information.

03Select the file type you want to transfer from the left panel, preview the details on the right, and choose the specific files. Then, click the "Export" button in the top menu bar, specify the location on your PC where you want to save the files and begin the transfer process.

Video Tutorial:

Part 2. How to Copy Files from iPhone to PC Without iTunes with iCloud

iCloud is Apple's official cloud storage service. By enabling iCloud sync, users can automatically upload files from their iPhone (such as photos, contacts, notes, documents, etc.) to the cloud and access them on any device. By logging into the iCloud website on a PC, users can download these files and complete a seamless transfer. This method does not require a cable connection and is ideal for users with a good network environment who only need to transfer a small amount of data.

Here is how to transfer iPhone files to PC without iTunes via iCloud:

Step 1. On your iPhone, go to "Settings" > Tap your "Apple ID" > "iCloud".

Step 2. Enable the content you want to sync (such as "Photos", "Messages", or "Notes").

Step 3. On your PC, visit iCloud.com and log in with your Apple ID.

Step 4. Select the content you want to download (such as "Photos" or "iCloud Drive"), then click the download button to save it to your computer.

Part 3. How to Move Files from iPhone to PC Without iTunes Using Windows File Explorer

If you want to transfer photos or videos from iPhone to PC without iTunes, you can directly using Windows File Explorer, no additional software download required.

Here is how to get files from iPhone without iTunes using Windows File Explorer:

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to the computer using a USB cable.

Step 2. Unlock your iPhone and tap "Trust This Computer".

Step 3. Open "This PC" and find the connected iPhone icon.

Step 4. Go to "Internal Storage" > "DCIM" folder.

Step 5. Select the photos/videos you want, then copy and paste them into a folder on your computer to save.

Part 4. How to Transfer iPhone Files to PC Without iTunes Through Email

Email is also a practical method for file transfer. Using the built-in "Mail" app on your iPhone or a third-party email app, you can send files as attachments to your own email address and then receive and download them on your computer. However, there is a limit to the size of attachments you can send at one time.

Here is how to copy files from iPhone to computer without iTunes through email:

Step 1. Open the "Mail" app on your iPhone and create a new email.

Step 2. Enter your own email address in the recipient field.

Step 3. Click the attachment icon and add the files you want to transfer (such as photos, documents, etc.), then send the email.

Step 4. Log into the same email account on your computer, open the email, and download the attachment to your local storage.

Part 5: Transfer Files from iPhone to PC without iTunes via Google Drive

Besides iCloud, services like Google Drive or Dropbox provide an easy cloud-based way to move files from your iPhone to your computer. Google Drive is especially convenient for anyone already using Google services. It also gives you 15 GB of free storage, which is more generous than iCloud's 5 GB. Keep in mind that uploading large files can take more time.

Here is how to move photos, contacts, and calendar events from your iPhone to your computer with Google Drive:

Step 1. Install Google Drive on your iPhone, open the app, and sign in with your Google account.

Step 2. Tap the "Add" icon in Google Drive and choose the files you want to upload from your iPhone.

Step 3. Select "Upload" to save your chosen items to your Drive.

Step 4. On your computer, go to the Google Drive website and download the files you need.

FAQs about Transferring Files from iPhone to PC

Q1: Why isn't my iPhone being detected? Why can't I transfer files to my PC?

Several factors may prevent your PC from recognizing your iPhone. You might be using a damaged USB cable, or certain settings on your iPhone may be blocking access from other devices.

To fix connection issues, try the following:

• Use a different USB cable.
• Keep your internet connection steady and make sure your iPhone stays awake. When you connect the device, tap "Trust" on your iPhone.
• Download the latest version of the software and reinstall it.

Q2: Why does it take a long time to transfer files from iPhone to PC?

Most iPhone models still rely on USB 2.0. Only the iPhone 15 Pro series supports USB 3.0, so transferring files with some tools can feel very slow. If you need faster speeds, consider using professional transfer software such as Coolmuster iOS Assistant. This program uses enhanced acceleration technology that can move files much quicker than other tools. (How Long It Takes to Transfer Data from One iPhone to Another?)

Q3: Can I use AirDrop to send files from an iPhone to a Windows PC?

No. AirDrop is a built-in feature designed exclusively for Apple devices such as iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Windows computers do not support AirDrop, so you will need to use one of the five methods mentioned above to transfer files successfully.

Conclusion

You can use the five easy methods mentioned above to transfer files from your iPhone to your PC without iTunes. If you're looking for a quick and versatile solution, we highly recommend Coolmuster iOS Assistant. It is not only easy to use but also supports exporting and managing various types of data without relying on iTunes, making it perfect for users who want to efficiently manage their iPhone files.

Related Articles:

Full Guide on How to Access iPhone Files on PC Without iTunes

How to Back Up iPhone Without iTunes? 3 Proven Methods

How to Transfer Files from PC to iPhone Without iTunes - 6 Ways

4 Reliable Ways to Transfer Files from iPhone to PC Wirelessly