Sony Support

Article ID : 00237325 / Last Modified : 20/01/2026Print

How to fix USB connection issues between your Xperia smartphone and computer

    Transferring media files from your Xperia smartphone to a computer is easy with a USB cable. However, sometimes connection issues do pop up, and when this happens, it can be difficult to transfer media files between your devices.

    If your computer can't detect or recognise your Xperia smartphone using a USB cable, there are some troubleshooting steps you can take to ensure a smoother connection, including: 

    ℹ️
    Before you start
    • The following steps may differ between Android versions. To learn which Android version your Xperia has:
      Find and tap Settings → About phone → Android version.
      (If you don't see the About phone option under Settings, tap System and check the Android version of your phone.)
    • Make sure to use a high-quality USB Type-C cable, or a USB Type-C to Type-A cable, that supports data transfer (not just charging).
    • Switch to a different USB cable or computer to see if the issue is with the cable or port. If you try a different USB port on your computer, make sure your phone is connected directly to that USB port. Do not use a USB hub or USB extension cable.
    • In rare cases, the USB cable for charging may not be recognised by the computer.
    • If your computer gets exposed to water, ensure the USB port is completely dry before inserting a USB cable.

    Setting your USB preferences 

    Click or tap your Android version below:


    Tips:

    • Make sure your phone screen is unlocked, and that the USB connection mode on your phone is set to File Transfer (or Transfer files). The default connection mode is No data transfer (Charging only). For a computer to detect your phone, select the USB connection mode every time you connect your phone to a computer.
    • If you are using a Mac computer:
      Mac computers don’t support MTP (Media Transfer Protocol), which is an extension needed for file transfer between a computer and an Android device. Instead, you can transfer your files via Bluetooth, Google Drive, Quick Share, or SD card.

    Clearing the Media Storage app data (only applicable up to Android 12) 

    To troubleshoot USB connection issues, you can disconnect your phone from the computer and clear the data in the Media Storage system app on your phone.

    IMPORTANT:

    • Clearing the Media Storage app data does not delete your actual media files. However, some music playlists and information may be lost, and your media files may be temporarily hidden.
    • After clearing the data, restart your phone. Android will rescan your media files automatically, and any hidden files will reappear.
      If your files don’t show up right away, try taking a new photo to trigger the media scanner.
    • If you can't find the Media Storage app on your phone:
      The phone system may hide it by default. Go to Settings → Apps →    (See all apps icon), and then use the Search icon at the top of the menu screen to find it manually.

    Click or tap your Android version below:

    Trying other (non-USB) transfer methods 

    If, for some reason, you don't see the File Transfer option under USB Preferences, or your USB connection fails, there are other transfer methods available.

    Click or tap an option below:

    Still having issues?

    If your computer still doesn't recognise your Xperia phone even after setting the USB preferences, clearing the Media Storage app data, and/or using an alternative transfer method, try the following: