How to transfer files from iPhone to PC Windows 10?

In the modern world, the need to transfer files from iPhone to Windows 10 is more common than ever. Whether you're moving work documents, 4K videos, or study notes, bridging the gap between iOS and Windows is essential.

While these systems are often viewed as incompatible, moving data in 2026 is easier than ever. This guide covers the best methods to transfer files from iPhone to Windows 11 and 10, ranging from standard USB connections to advanced wireless solutions like AnyViewer.

Why is iPhone to Windows transfer sometimes tricky?

Unlike the seamless "AirDrop" experience between an iPhone and a Mac, Windows users often face hurdles. These include:

• Driver Compatibility: Windows sometimes fails to recognize iPhones via USB.
• File Format Issues: High-Efficiency Image Coding (HEIC) files from iPhones can be difficult to open on older Windows 10 builds.
• Size Limitations: Cloud services often have strict caps on free storage.

Fortunately, tools like AnyViewer have revolutionized this process by offering a high-speed, cross-platform bridge to share files between iPhone and Windows that bypasses these traditional headaches.

How to transfer files from iPhone to Windows 10& 11

To help you find the best fit for your needs, we have compiled six reliable ways to sync your data. Whether you prefer a fast wireless connection, a traditional USB cable, or native Windows features, there is a solution below for every user.

Way 1. The professional choice: AnyViewer (Fastest & wireless)

If you’re tired of hunting for compatible lightning cables or dealing with sluggish cloud syncing services, AnyViewer is the game-changer you need. While many know AnyViewer as an elite remote desktop tool, it has evolved into a high-performance powerhouse for seamless file synchronization.

Whether you are working from a coffee shop or the comfort of your couch, AnyViewer provides a unified, zero-latency solution to transfer files from iPhone to Windows 10 and the latest Windows 11 systems. It bypasses the traditional "Apple vs. Windows" compatibility barriers, giving you total control over your data.

Why AnyViewer Outperforms the Rest:

• Blazing Fast Speeds: Don't wait for the cloud. Experience transfer speeds up to 10MB/s, ensuring your data moves as fast as your workflow.
• Massive File Handling: Unlike email or basic messaging apps, AnyViewer easily manages files up to 2TB. It’s the perfect companion for professional photographers and videographers backing up raw 4K footage.
• Total Wireless Freedom: Forget about USB ports. Transfer files over Wi-Fi or cellular data from across the room—or across the globe.
• Bank-Grade Privacy: Your data is your business. AnyViewer protects every transfer with Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) encryption, the same standard used by top-tier financial institutions.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1. Download and install AnyViewer on your Windows 10 PC.

Step 2. Install the AnyViewer mobile app from the App Store on your iPhone.

Step 3. Log in to the same AnyViewer account on both devices.

Step 4. On your iPhone, go to Device, select your PC, and tap File Transfer.

Step 5. Select the files on your iPhone and tap the transfer icon to send them straight to your Windows 10 desktop.

The AnyViewer Advantage: Unlike standard transfer tools, AnyViewer works even when you're away from home. If you forgot a document on your iPhone while traveling, you can remotely access your home PC from your iPhone and "push" the file to your hard drive instantly. It’s not just a transfer tool; it’s your personal data bridge.

Way 2. Using Windows File Explorer (USB cable)

For those who prefer a "plug-and-play" approach, the classic USB method still works, though it is primarily limited to photos and videos.

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to your PC using a certified USB cable.

Step 2. Unlock your iPhone and tap Trust when the "Trust This Computer" prompt appears.

Step 3. Open File Explorer on Windows 10 and go to This PC.

Step 4. Double-click your Apple iPhone > Internal Storage > DCIM.

Step 5. Browse the folders (e.g., 100APPLE) and drag your photos to your local drive.

Limitations: This method often fails to show documents or app-specific data and can be prone to connection "time-outs" during large transfers.

Way 3. iCloud Drive (The cloud sync method)

Apple’s iCloud is built into every iPhone. If you have enough storage, it’s a reliable way to sync documents and files so you can access them when you transfer files from iPhone to Windows 11 or 10.

Step 1. On your iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud and toggle on iCloud Drive.

Step 2. Move your files into the Files app under the "iCloud Drive" folder.

Step 3. On your Windows 10 PC, go to iCloud.com or download the iCloud for Windows app.

Step 4. Log in with your Apple ID and download the files to your computer.

Way 4. Microsoft Phone Link (The native Windows solution)

Microsoft has improved its Phone Link app to support iOS. This is often the first method people think of when they try to transfer files from iPhone to Windows 10 via Bluetooth.

Step 1. Search for "Phone Link" in your Windows 10 Start menu.

Step 2. Select iPhone and follow the pairing instructions via Bluetooth.

Step 3. Once paired, you can view recent photos and drag them to your desktop.

Note: This method requires Bluetooth on both devices and is not ideal for large folders or non-media files.

Way 5. Using the "Files" app & SMB (Advanced)

If you are tech-savvy, you can set up a "Shared Folder" on Windows 10 and connect to it via the iPhone Files app using the SMB protocol.

Step 1. On Windows: Create a folder on your Windows > Right-click the folder > Properties > Sharing > Share > Choose "Everyone" > Click "Add" > Change the Permission Level to "Read/Write" > Click "Share".

Step 2. Open the "Control Panel" > Click "Network and Internet" > Click "Network and Sharing Center" > Enter "WLAN Status" > Click "Details" and get the IP address of the computer. Note your PC's IP address.

Step 3. On iPhone: Open the Files app. Tap the three dots (...) icon and select Connect to Server.

Step 4. Enter your PC's IP address and log in with your Windows credentials.

Step 5. You can now copy-paste files directly between the two devices over your local Wi-Fi.

Way 6. Third-party cloud services (Dropbox / Google Drive)

If you already use Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox, these are viable alternatives to transfer files from iPhone to Windows 10.

Step 1. Upload files from your iPhone to the respective app.

Step 2. Wait for the upload to finish.

Step 3. Open the corresponding website or app on Windows 10 and download.

Conclusion

Transferring files from iPhone to Windows 10 and 11 doesn't have to be a chore. While USB cables and iCloud have their place, AnyViewer offers a modern, high-speed, and incredibly versatile solution that handles both local and remote transfers with ease.

If you're tired of "Device Unreachable" errors or slow cloud uploads, give AnyViewer a try today. It’s the bridge your Windows-iPhone setup has been waiting for.