Introduction
It can be a nightmare when your Nexus 6 isn't showing up on your computer. When your smartphone is misbehaving, you may find yourself wondering what's wrong and what steps you need to take to get it working. It's important to understand the basics of troubleshooting a Nexus 6, and this guide will help you get back up and running.
Being able to view and interact with your Nexus 6 on your computer is a great way to transfer files, backup data and run applications. Having an issue such as this can be a major inconvenience, so let's get started with the steps you need to take to troubleshoot.
Troubleshooting Steps
Make sure your Nexus 6 is powered on: Before proceeding with troubleshooting steps, the Nexus 6 must be powered on. If the device has been powered down, turn it back on by pressing and holding the Power/Lock button.
Restart your computer: Often a restart of your computer can be the solution to various issues. To do this, click the Windows Start button, then click the Power icon, and then select "Restart".
Unlock your Nexus 6: Once your device is powered on, you must unlock it. Navigate the lock screen and enter your PIN, password, pattern, or use the fingerprint scanner to unlock it.
Update the USB drivers: While on Windows, it can be helpful to update the drivers on your computer to ensure they are up-to-date and functioning properly. To update drivers go to the Windows Device Manager, locate your Nexus 6 device, right-click it, and then select “Update driver”.
Check the USB settings on your Nexus 6: Check the USB settings on your device to make sure that it is set up for “File transfer” or “MTP” rather than “Charging”. To do this, go to Settings, select “Storage”, select the Menu icon, and then select USB computer connection.
Reboot your Nexus 6: A restart of your device may resolve the issue. To do this, press and hold the Power/Lock button and choose the “Restart” option.
Check for any software updates: Updates are often fixes for various bugs or issues. Check to ensure that the latest version of the Android operating system is installed on the Nexus 6. To do this, go to Settings, select “About Phone”, and then select “Software Update”.
Re-connect the USB cable: Disconnect and then re-connect the USB cable to the Nexus 6 and your computer.
Use a different USB port: If the issue persists, try plugging your device into a different USB port on your computer and see if it is recognized.
FAQ
What to do if My Nexus 6 is not showing up on the Computer?
If your Nexus 6 is not showing up on the computer, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. Make sure your device is powered on, restart your computer, check the USB settings on your device, reboot your device, check for any updates, re-connect the USB cable, and try using a different USB port.
Why Won’t my Nexus 6 Connect to my Computer?
Your Nexus 6 may not connect to your computer because of an outdated driver, incorrect USB settings on your device, or a faulty cable. Try updating the drivers, check the USB settings, reboot your device, check for any OS updates, re-connect the USB cable, and try a different USB port.
How Can I Update the USB Drivers on my Computer?
Updating the USB drivers on your computer requires going to the Windows Device Manager, locating your Nexus 6 device, right-clicking it, and then selecting “Update driver”.
What is MTP?
MTP stands for Media Transfer Protocol, and it's a set of communication protocols used to transfer digital music, videos, and other files between two devices.
Why Do I Have to Unlock my Nexus 6 Before Connecting to my Computer?
It is important to unlock your Nexus 6 before attempting to connect it to your computer. If the device is locked the computer may not recognize it, so make sure to unlock your device before connecting to ensure a successful connection.