Unable to connect my HUAWEI phone/tablet to a computer via a USB cable

Applicable products: Smartphone
Applicable products:
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Unable to connect my HUAWEI phone/tablet to a computer via a USB cable

If you need to transfer or back up data, refer to Backing up your phone/tablet.

After you connect your phone/tablet to a computer via a USB cable, check whether a prompt (Use USB to/Charging via USB/Charge only) is displayed on your device and perform the operations based on the scenarios below.

No Use USB to or Charging via USB prompt is displayed

  1. Replace the data cable.

    Connect your phone using a standard USB cable, because non-standard USB cables may only support charging. Additionally, make sure that the USB cable functions properly. Otherwise, data cannot be transferred.

  2. Enable Always prompt when connecting to USB (applicable only to devices running HarmonyOS 4.X or earlier).

    Enable Developer options. Then tap Settings, search for and enter Developer options, enable Always prompt when connecting to USB, and reconnect the USB cable to try again.

     
    • Developer options can only be enabled in Owner mode, and can't be enabled in PrivateSpace, when you have switched to a non-Owner account, or when Digital Balance is enabled and set for child use.
    • Developer options requires a basic understanding of the functions and features on your phone/tablet. Incorrect settings may cause your device to malfunction. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you disable this mode during daily use.
  3. Try another USB port.

    Try another USB port or computer. If the connection is normal, the USB port on your computer is incompatible or damaged. In this case, contact the computer manufacturer for technical support.

    You can also refer to My HUAWEI computer cannot identify USB devices.

  4. If the issue persists

    Connect your computer to another phone/tablet. If the connection is normal, your device port may be damaged. In this case, back up your data and take your device and proof of purchase to an authorized Huawei Customer Service Center for assistance.

Use USB to or Charging via USB is displayed

  1. Set Use USB to to Transfer files.

    After connecting your phone/tablet to your computer, select Transfer files (instead of Charge only) in the displayed Use USB to/Charging via USB prompt. Alternatively, swipe down from the notification panel and tap Touch for more options to select Transfer files (instead of Charge only). Then you can view the files on your computer.

  2. Install HiSuite or Huawei PC Manager on your computer.

    Download and install HiSuite or Huawei PC Manager on your computer, and then update the driver.

  3. If the issue persists

    Please refer to My HUAWEI computer cannot identify USB devices. You can also call Huawei customer service hotline for further assistance.

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