If you want to manage or sync your iPhone with your Mac, you’ll need to use the Finder app-especially if your Mac is running macOS Catalina or later. Here’s how to make your iPhone show up in Finder and get the most out of this feature.
Step-by-Step: Displaying Your iPhone in Finder
- Connect Your iPhone to Your Mac
- You can connect your iPhone to your Mac using a USB or USB-C connector. Verify that the iPhone is unlocked.
- Open Finder
- Click the Finder icon in your Dock to open a new Finder window.
- Locate Your Device
- In the Finder sidebar (on the left), you should see your iPhone listed under “Locations.” Click your device to select it. If prompted, tap “Trust” on your iPhone and enter your passcode.
- Access Sync and File Sharing Options
- Once selected, you’ll see tabs for syncing music, photos, files, and more. You can now manage your device, back it up, or share files between your Mac and iPhone.
Troubleshooting: If Your iPhone Doesn’t Appear
- Check Your Cable and Ports: Ensure the cable and USB port are working.
- Trust the Computer: If you see a “Trust This Computer?” alert on your iPhone, tap “Trust.”
- Finder Settings: To ensure that devices show up in the sidebar, select “CDs, DVDs, and iOS Devices” under Finder > Settings.
- Update Software: Verify that the most recent software updates are installed on both your Mac and iPhone.
Bonus: Show iPhone in Finder Over Wi-Fi
Once you’ve connected with a cable, you can set your iPhone to appear in Finder over Wi-Fi:
- Choose your device in Finder, click the “General” tab, and then select “Show this [device] when on Wi-Fi.” Press “Apply.” Now, even without a wire, your iPhone will appear in Finder anytime it is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac.
Just plug your iPhone into your Mac, launch Finder, then locate your device in the sidebar to display it in Finder. For future convenience, you can also configure it to show up over Wi-Fi. This simplifies file sharing, syncing, and backup between your Mac and iPhone.