How Can I Transfer files from a Macbook Pro to an iPhone?

Question

How Can I Transfer files from a Macbook Pro to an iPhone?

Hi, I have

a 2010 Macbook Pro running OS X Yosemite
an iPhone 8 running iOS 12

I am trying to perform the incredibly simple task of transferring photos between from my Macbook to my iPhone ( and in the other direction).

Airdrop does not work, I think because it is a pre-2012 Mac.
Image Capture also does not work (it only recognises the iPhone once in a blue moon, and even then, it only allows file transfer from iPhone to Macbook)
I do not have access to WiFi and data is incredibly slow and expensive so iCloud/Dropbox/Drive are not feasible
Photos/iTunes also refuse to recongise the iPhone
When I try to transfer via Bluetooth I get an error

Now, are there any solutions that I can use that don't involve an internet connection?

Thanks

and, out of interest, why does Apple make it so hard to transfer files between its own devices? Is this for security issues? Because this is an incredibly easy and straighforward process with even a $50 android phone.

iPhone 8, iOS 12

Posted on Jun 23, 2019 11:14 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Lyssa

Level 8

41,381 points

Jun 23, 2019 11:34 AM in response to angryuser3000

Transferring via bluetooth isn't supported as far as I know, so that error is likely expected.

As for the rest...have you tried several USB cables?

Does this help at all? https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204095

And there's also this user tip regarding iOS 12 and Yosemite. https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-13694

Is there a reason your Mac is running Yosemite? I'm not sure you can update to the latest MacOS, but you should be able to update to something newer.

~Lyssa

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Answer 2

ChrisJ4203

Level 10

230,636 points

Jun 23, 2019 11:30 AM in response to angryuser3000

Start here, Transfer photos and videos from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

If you continue to have issues with iTunes recognizing phone, see this, If iTunes doesn't recognize your iPhone, iPad, or iPod - Apple Support

Bluetooth wouldn't work anyway, as you cannot pair the phone and computer.

See information provided for iTunes.

Cannot address the statement about AirDrop or Image capture.

As far as why Apple does something, speculation about Apple policy is prohibited on the forum. If the Android device better suits your needs, then I suggest you purchase it. Up to you.

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How Can I Transfer files from a Macbook Pro to an iPhone?

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