iPads not detected by PC, iTunes, or File Explorer

Both ipads are not connecting to the PC

They are not detected in file explorer and do not appear in itunes or apple devices

They both charge


Using the same cable and PC both iphones connect perfectly in apple devices and are visible in file explorer

Have tried all of the previous mentioned ways to correct the ADMS issue but the file is still not visible on the PC despite both iphones connecting properly


Please advise

Thank you


iPhone 15 Pro, iOS 27

Posted on Oct 30, 2026 10:55 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 1, 2026 7:20 AM

When your iPhones connect properly to your PC via File Explorer and Apple/iTunes apps, but your iPads charge only and fail to register, the issue is typically specific to the iPad OS trust state, distinct iPad-to-Windows drivers, or app handling. 

  • Unlock the iPads: Ensure both iPads are unlocked with your passcode when plugging them in.
  • Dismissed Trust Dialog: If you previously tapped "Don't Trust" or ignored the prompt, it will not appear again automatically.
  • Reset Location & Privacy: On both iPads, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset, and tap Reset Location & Privacy. Unplug and reconnect the iPad to force the "Trust This Computer?" prompt to reappear on the screen, then tap Trust and enter your passcode. 


2. Use the Apple Devices App Instead of iTunes (Windows)

  • Apple has split Windows functionality, shifting management for modern iPadOS versions away from legacy iTunes over to the dedicated apple device app
  • If you have both iTunes and Apple Devices installed simultaneously, they can conflict over device drivers. Uninstall legacy iTunes or use the standalone Apple devices app  to see if the iPads register properly. 


3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 1, 2026 7:20 AM in response to WDJL

When your iPhones connect properly to your PC via File Explorer and Apple/iTunes apps, but your iPads charge only and fail to register, the issue is typically specific to the iPad OS trust state, distinct iPad-to-Windows drivers, or app handling. 

  • Unlock the iPads: Ensure both iPads are unlocked with your passcode when plugging them in.
  • Dismissed Trust Dialog: If you previously tapped "Don't Trust" or ignored the prompt, it will not appear again automatically.
  • Reset Location & Privacy: On both iPads, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset, and tap Reset Location & Privacy. Unplug and reconnect the iPad to force the "Trust This Computer?" prompt to reappear on the screen, then tap Trust and enter your passcode. 


2. Use the Apple Devices App Instead of iTunes (Windows)

  • Apple has split Windows functionality, shifting management for modern iPadOS versions away from legacy iTunes over to the dedicated apple device app
  • If you have both iTunes and Apple Devices installed simultaneously, they can conflict over device drivers. Uninstall legacy iTunes or use the standalone Apple devices app  to see if the iPads register properly. 


Nov 1, 2026 9:34 PM in response to WheelieNick

Hello

I have windows 11 and only have apple devices on the PC

i have followed the instruction about resetting location and privacy several times now with the same negative result

It is noted that when the phones connect to apple devices software the link button is activated on the phone

The iPads are wifi only but that should not be an issue?

Apple support article offers no solution to the issue I am experiencing



iPads not detected by PC, iTunes, or File Explorer

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