Android · Devices
Choose what USB connection does
USB Preferences controls what happens when your phone is plugged into a computer or other USB device — whether it charges only, transfers files, shares a network connection, or acts as a MIDI/audio device.
How to open USB Preferences
- Connect your phone to a computer with a USB cable.
- Pull down the notification shade and tap the USB notification.
- Choose File Transfer, USB tethering, MIDI, PTP, or No data transfer.
- Change it again anytime from the same notification while connected.
What you should know
- 'No data transfer' charges the phone but keeps the computer from accessing any files.
- 'File Transfer' mounts the phone's storage so you can drag and drop photos and documents.
- 'USB tethering' shares your phone's mobile data connection with the connected computer.
- 'MIDI' and 'PTP' modes support specialized use cases like music equipment or camera-style photo transfer.
This menu only appears while a USB cable is actually connected — it isn't accessible with nothing plugged in.
Why it matters
Choosing the wrong USB mode is a common reason a phone 'won't connect' to a computer, since public or work computers sometimes default to charge-only for security.
Best practices
- Leave the default at 'No data transfer' for routine charging on unfamiliar computers or public charging stations.
- Switch to File Transfer only when you actively need to move files, then switch back afterward.
- Use a data-capable USB cable — some charge-only cables physically lack the wires needed for file transfer.
Common problems and fixes
- Computer doesn't detect the phone's storage when plugged in.
- Pull down the USB notification and confirm the mode is set to File Transfer, not charging-only, and try a different cable.
- The USB preferences menu isn't showing up.
- Unplug and reconnect the USB cable — the menu only appears while an active USB connection is present.
Tips and tricks
- Tap the USB charging notification directly (instead of navigating through Settings) for the fastest way to switch modes mid-session.
Frequently asked questions
Is 'charging only' safer on public USB ports?
Yes, it prevents any unintended file access, which is why many phones default to it as a precaution against 'juice jacking'.
Why does the phone charge slower in File Transfer mode?
Actively transferring data can slightly reduce available charging power, though the difference is usually minor on modern cables.
Related settings
- Connected DevicesConnected devices is the hub screen for every accessory linked to your phone, including Bluetooth headphones, watches, car systems, and USB or NFC connections, plus shortcuts to Cast and Nearby Share preferences.
- Android AutoAndroid Auto projects a simplified, driving-friendly interface — navigation, calls, messaging, and media — onto your car's built-in display, either over a USB cable or wirelessly on supported vehicles.
- Storage & CleanupStorage settings show a breakdown of what's using space on your device — apps, photos, videos, and cached data — and offer one-tap tools to clear space safely.
More Devices guides for Android
- PrintingPrinting settings let Android discover printers on your Wi-Fi network or connect to manufacturer print services, so you can print documents, photos, and web pages directly from apps using the system Print option.
- CastCast lets you send audio, video, or your entire phone screen wirelessly to a Chromecast-built-in TV, Chromecast device, or other Cast-enabled speaker on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Fast PairFast Pair detects nearby supported Bluetooth accessories, such as earbuds or speakers, in pairing mode and shows a one-tap notification to connect instantly, skipping the usual manual Bluetooth pairing menu.
- Previously Connected DevicesThis screen lists every Bluetooth accessory, Chromecast, or other device the phone has connected to in the past, even if currently disconnected or out of range, so you can reconnect, rename, or permanently forget them.
- Phone Hub / Cross-Device ServicesCross-device services link an Android phone to a Chromebook or other trusted devices signed into the same Google Account, enabling features like viewing phone notifications, texting, checking battery level, and instantly tethering internet access from the Chromebook's Phone Hub panel.
- Physical Keyboard SettingsPhysical Keyboard settings appear once a Bluetooth or USB keyboard is connected, letting you select the correct keyboard layout, remap modifier keys, and enable keyboard shortcuts for navigating Android without touching the screen.