iPhone → PC, Mac, Chromebook, or Linux
How to transfer photos and files from iPhone to a computer
QuickBeam is a simple way to move photos, videos, and other files from an iPhone to a computer when both devices have a modern web browser. The computer becomes the receiving device and displays a QR code; the iPhone scans it and becomes the sender.
Nothing needs to be installed and no account is required. Files are encrypted in Safari before upload and decrypted in the computer browser. For a one-off transfer, this avoids cables, cloud folders, and emailing files to yourself.
Step-by-step instructions
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Open QuickBeam on the receiving computer
Go to quickbeam.app in Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari. A temporary QR code appears on the Scan QR Code tab.
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Scan the QR code with the iPhone
Open the iPhone Camera app, point it at the computer screen, and tap the QuickBeam banner. The unique sender page opens in Safari. Do not share that private sender link.
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Choose photos, videos, or files
Tap Choose Files on the iPhone. Select items from Photos or Browse, then confirm your selection. You can also use Take Photo to send a new picture directly.
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Wait while the files are securely transferred
Leave Safari visible on the iPhone and keep the QuickBeam tab open on the computer. Large videos take longer, especially on slower Wi-Fi or mobile connections.
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Find the downloaded files
The receiving browser downloads each completed file. Look in the computer's Downloads folder unless the browser asks you to choose another location.
Good to know
- Allow Camera access only if iOS asks for it while you are scanning or taking a new photo.
- Keep the iPhone awake and avoid switching away from Safari during a large transfer.
- The free version accepts up to five files per transfer and up to 32 MB per file; QuickBeam Unlimited raises those limits.
- If the connection expires, reload QuickBeam on the computer and scan the new QR code.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to transfer photos from iPhone to PC without a cable?
For a quick, occasional transfer, a browser-based QR tool such as QuickBeam is convenient because it needs no cable, app, or account. For automatic backups or very large libraries, iCloud, a USB cable, or a dedicated sync application may be a better fit.
Does this upload or import photos from my iPhone to the PC?
QuickBeam copies the selected files into the computer's download location. It does not automatically import them into the Windows Photos app or delete the originals from the iPhone.
Can I transfer from iPhone to a Mac too?
Yes. Open QuickBeam in a browser on the Mac and follow the same steps. AirDrop may be faster when both Apple devices support it and are configured for it; QuickBeam is useful when you prefer a browser-only option.