USB connection between iPad and Macbook Pro intermittent

Hi,

An intermittent USB connection between an iPad and a MacBook Pro is usually caused by a faulty or charge-only cable, debris in the device ports, or software glitches. Resolve this issue by checking your hardware components and resetting the trust relationship between the devices.

Hardware Fixes

• Test another cable: Use a certified cable that explicitly supports both power delivery and high-speed data transfer. Many cheap cables only support charging.
• Clean the ports: Inspect the USB-C or Lightning ports on both the iPad and MacBook Pro for lint, dust, or damage. Gently clean them out using a wooden toothpick if needed.
• Change ports or bypass hubs: Plug the cable directly into a different port on your MacBook Pro. Avoid using third-party USB hubs or adapters, which frequently drop lower-speed data connections.

Software and Settings Fixes

• Reset trust settings: On your iPad, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset, then tap Reset Location & Privacy. Reconnect to the Mac and tap Trust when prompted.
• Restart both devices: Turn off both your iPad and MacBook Pro completely, then turn them back on to clear temporary connection caches.
• Check security software: Temporarily disable any active VPNs or third-party security firewalls on your Mac that might block external USB device handshakes.

I think our friend, @kaz-k, has you covered regarding port issues, cabling and potential software conflicts. 👍🏽

If you have checked all of those things and still have a problem connecting the two devices, I suggest you make an appointment at your local App Store Genius Bar or Apple Authorized Service Provider and have both devices evaluated for hardware problems.

You can make a Genius Bar appointment for hardware/software service and support using this link: Make a Genius Bar reservation - Apple Support

Your mid-2015 MBP is now about eleven years old and sits on Apple's list of vintage Macs. As such, Apple is unlikely to provide any sort of hardware service, but you may still find an AASP that is willing to have a go.

Customer Support (800) MY–APPLE (800–692–7753) or on line /getsupport.apple.com/ 

or call AppleCare Support at 1-800-APLCARE (800-275-2273) 

Outside the US: Apple’s global phone numbers: Contact Apple Support 

No reference to this being AI copy and paste?