Android Cannot Connect to a PC/Laptop via USB and is Just Charging

Android Cannot Connect to a PC/Laptop via USB and is Just Charging

 

If your PC does not detect Android when it is connected as a USB stick or a media player, the reasons should be searched for in the device and PC settings. The reason is usually related to the software and can be easily fixed although in some cases you may need to have the cable or connector replaced.

Checking the Cable and Connector

 

If your PC does not detect a connected Android device, try to establish a connection using another USB cable. If it does not work, it is not the cable that is causing the problem.

The next step is to use another USB port. Then try to connect your Android to another PC.

Checking Android Settings

 

If your phone is protected by a pattern lock or a password, unlock it before connecting it to a PC as the system cannot detect a locked device.

Android Cannot Connect to a PC/Laptop via USB and is Just Charging

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We have described how to connect Android as a USB stick in another instruction in detail, so only the main points will be repeated here. Go to “Developer options” in the settings and make sure that debugging by USB is on.

Android Cannot Connect to a PC/Laptop via USB and is Just Charging

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Connect your device to the PC and check the notification shade. If there is a notification about charging over USB, tap it to change the mode. Select file (MTP) or photo (PTP) transfer.

 

If Android is not connected or detected by the system at all, make sure that the USB modem mode is disabled in the phone settings.

 

    Open the Android settings.

    In the “Wireless networks” field tap “More”.

    Select “Modem mode” and disable the USB modem.

 

For Samsung phones the procedure is as follows:

 

    Settings

    Network connections

    Modem and access points

 

Android Cannot Connect to a PC/Laptop via USB and is Just Charging

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When the USB modem is on, the phone cannot be detected by the PC, even if other connection requirements are met.

Changing Computer Parameters

 

If the phone is in good order, but your PC does not recognize it, check if it has required software. For example, when connecting a device to a computer running Windows XP make sure that Media Transfer Protocol is installed on it. In Windows 10 and other versions it is already available in the system by default and does not need to be installed.

 

Download Media Transfer Protocol

 

If you are connecting your phone for the first time, the PC will need some drivers for the new device. They can be downloaded on the official phone/ tablet manufacturer’s website. Drivers are usually installed automatically although sometimes you have to install them manually.

 

Some models can be operated using only special tools supplied with them. Install them on your PC to be able to handle the content of your Android device.

 

If your PC does not detect USB sticks and other devices connected via a USB port at all, you have to fix the problem. In order to do in automatically, open “Debugging” in the control panel and select “Device setup”.