Connect to a computer (with a cable)

Important: Some of these steps only work if your Fairphone has Android 13 or above. Learn how to Check and update your software version.

You can use a cable to connect your Fairphone to a computer. When connected, you can transfer files, share internet access, and more.

 


Before you start

  • Use a cable that fits your Fairphone's USB-C port and the port on your computer.
  • Use a cable that can transfer data (some cables can only be used for charging).
  • Connect to a computer with at least Windows 10, Ubuntu 18.x or macOS 10.7.

 


Connect to a Windows or Linux (Ubuntu) computer

To connect your Fairphone to a Windows or Linux (Ubuntu) computer, follow these steps:

  1. Unlock your Fairphone.
  2. Connect your Fairphone to your computer using a USB cable.
  3. On your Fairphone, swipe down from the top of the screen.
  4. Tap the Charging this device via USB notification.
  5. When you're ready to disconnect, unplug the USB cable.
    • If you're connected to a Windows computer, eject your Fairphone before unplugging the cable to safely disconnect.

Important: Windows may not recognize your Fairphone if the necessary drivers are missing. Try installing a universal driver, such as Universal ADB Driver.

 


Connect to a macOS computer

To connect your Fairphone to a macOS computer, follow these steps:

  1. Unlock your Fairphone.
  2. Connect your Fairphone to your computer using a USB cable.
  3. On your Fairphone, swipe down from the top of the screen.
  4. Tap the Charging this device via USB notification.
  5. When you're ready to disconnect, unplug the USB cable.

Important: macOS has limited built-in support for Android devices. To transfer files between your Fairphone and a macOS computer, you'll need to install a third-party file transfer app on your macOS computer, such as OpenMTP.

 


Trouble connecting to a computer?

If you can't connect to a computer, you can often fix it in just a few simple steps. Find out how: Troubleshoot a Connection with a Computer.

 

Please note that we are closed on 18th April 2025 due to a public holiday in the Netherlands.

Due to a high volume of requests, we have limited our chat opening hours to assist as many customers as possible. If you have an open request, please know we are working hard to get back to you as quickly as we can. Thank you for your patience.