If you are an iPhone user, you know how imperative it is to back up your photos- no one wants to lose those cherished moments. However, it can be quite a challenge to transfer photos from your iPhone to your computer. Especially for Windows users, the iCloud option is not always the most convenient. If you are struggling with how to backup iPhone photos to PC Windows 10, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered!
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Backup iPhone Photos to PC Windows 10
iCloud may be the default option for iOS devices to back up your photos, but for Windows users, the experience can be frustrating. Firstly, iCloud offers limited storage, and it can fill up quite fast, especially if you take a lot of photos. Additionally, when you use iCloud, you can only access your files when you are online. This means that you won’t be able to view your photos if you don’t have a network connection.
For Windows users, transferring photos from your iPhone to your PC is a convenient way of creating phone backups, freeing up some storage space on your iPhone, and getting easy access to your photos without the need for an internet connection.
Method 1: Using USB Cable
Backing up your iPhone photos to your Windows 10 PC using a USB cable is the most straightforward and efficient method. Just follow these steps to get started:
1. Connect your iPhone to your PC using a USB cable.
2. If a prompt appears on your iPhone, allow access to your photos.
3. Launch the Photos app on your PC.
4. Click on the Import button in the top right corner.
5. Select the photos and videos you want to transfer.
6. Choose your desired destination folder and click on the "Import Selected" button.
Pros: This method requires no special software installation or internet connection, and it’s the fastest way to transfer a large number of photos.
Cons: If you want to transfer a significant number of photos regularly, it can be time-consuming and monotonous.
Method 2: Using Windows Photos App
This method requires no further installation of software as it uses the Windows Photos App, which comes with your Windows 10 installation. Follow these easy steps:
1. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
2. Unlock your iPhone, and if prompted, ‘trust’ your computer.
3. Launch the Windows Photos App (usually pre-installed)
4. Click Import in the top right corner.
5. Choose the pictures you want to transfer.
6. Select if you want to delete or keep photos on the iPhone and click Import.
Pros: The Windows Photos app is easy to use and comes as part of your Windows installation.
Cons: If you have a vast collection of photos, it can be time-consuming to select the specific photos to transfer and the ones to delete.
Method 3: Using AutoPlay
AutoPlay is an in-built option in Windows 10 that launches when you connect your iPhone to your PC. It allows you to transfer files from your device to your computer quickly. Here’s how to use it:
1. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
2. If prompted, ‘trust’ or ‘allow’ access to your device.
3. Open Windows File Explorer. Your iPhone should appear under the ‘Devices and Drives’ section.
4. Right-click on your iPhone icon and select ‘Import pictures and videos.’
5. Choose the destination folder on your PC, and your photos and videos will begin importing.
Pros: AutoPlay is a quick and straight forward method of transferring photos.
Cons: AutoPlay can be quite limited, and you have no control over customizing the import settings compared to the previous methods.
What to Do If You Can’t Backup iPhone Photos to PC Windows 10
Sometimes, your computer may fail to recognize your iPhone when you connect using a USB cable. To fix this issue, you can try the following solutions:
1. Restart your iPhone and your Computer
2. Update your Device Drivers
3. Disable your Security Software
4. Use iTunes
5. Try a Different USB Cable or Port
Bonus Tip
To ensure that your photos are backed up continuously, you can use the iCloud Photo Library option. This feature automatically backs up all your photos and videos on your iPhone to iCloud.
5 FAQs
Q: What is the best way to backup my iPhone photos to my PC?
A: The best method is to connect your iPhone to your PC using a USB cable and, using Windows Photos App, or Windows File Explorer save it in a predefined folder.
Q: Why can’t I view my iPhone photos on my computer?
A: Check if the USB cable is working correctly, then make sure you trust the device when prompted on your iPhone. If the error persists, try the solutions listed above.
Q: Will my photos be uploaded to iCloud automatically?
A: Yes, if you have set your iCloud settings to include iCloud Photos, all your photos and videos will be uploaded automatically.
Q: Can I back up my iPhone photos to Google Photos or Dropbox?
A: Yes, you can. You can back up your iPhone photos to Dropbox or Google Photos by installing the relevant application on your iPhone and logging in using your account details.
Q: Will using USB cable affect my iPhone battery life?
A: No, using a USB cable to transfer photos will not impact your iPhone’s battery life.
Final Thoughts
Backing up your iPhone photos to your PC Windows 10 is a crucial maintenance task that you should carry out regularly. With the three methods we’ve outlined above, you can pick the one that works best for you and keep your valuable photos secure while freeing up some space on your phone.