Can I control my iPhone from my MacBook with a USB?

Imagine seamlessly managing messages, organizing files, and navigating apps on your iPhone—all directly from your Mac. This integration simplifies multitasking and boosts productivity, especially when juggling tasks between the two devices. While wireless options provide convenience, USB connections stand out for their superior reliability. They ensure faster data transfer, minimal latency, and a stable, uninterrupted experience.

With the right tools, controlling an iPhone from a Mac via USB becomes effortless. Let’s explore some of the best solutions.

How to control iPhone from Mac via USB [3 ways]

There are various reasons why you might want to control your iPhone from a Mac—whether it's for convenience, to manage a device with a cracked or unresponsive screen, or to enjoy mobile gaming on a larger display without relying on emulators. No matter your need, here are three effective solutions to get the job done.

Way 1. AirDroid Cast

AirDroid Cast offers a versatile screen-sharing and device-casting solution, enabling seamless remote control of iPhone or Android devices from a Mac using a USB connection. This setup lets you operate your smartphone directly through your Mac's keyboard and mouse. A USB connection ensures a stable link with minimal latency and sharp visuals, making it the best option for controlling an iPhone from a Mac.

Steps to control iPhone from Mac via USB using AirDroid Cast:

Step1. Use a USB lightning cable to connect your iPhone to your Mac. When prompted on your iPhone, tap “Trust This Computer.”

Step 2. Open AirDroid Cast on your Mac, go to the USB tab and select your iPhone.

Step 3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.

Step4. Activate control by clicking the “Turn on Control” button in the left menu, allowing you to manage your iPhone directly from your Mac.

Way 2. iMyFone MirrorTo

iMyFone MirrorTo is a versatile tool designed to control your iPhone from a Mac via USB or Wi-Fi while mirroring the iOS screen. Compatible with macOS 12 and earlier versions, it also supports Windows PCs. Once connected, you can seamlessly interact with your iPhone using your Mac's keyboard and mouse for typing, clicking, swiping, and scrolling.

How to control iPhone from Mac via USB using MirrorTo:

Step 1. Install MirrorTo on your Mac and connect your iPhone using a USB cable.

Step 2. Open the app on your Mac, select "iOS," and then choose "USB." (It's recommended to start with a USB connection.)

Step 3. Unlock your iPhone and trust the computer by entering your passcode when prompted.

Step 4. Your iPhone screen will now appear on your Mac.

Step 5. To enable screen control, pair your iPhone with the Mac via Bluetooth.

Step 6. Enjoy the full iOS experience on your Mac, including the ability to mirror your iPad screen with MirrorTo.

Way 3. QuickTime Player

Another effective way to connect your iPhone to your Mac via USB is by using Apple's built-in QuickTime Player. While this method doesn't allow you to control your iPhone directly from your Mac, it's ideal for mirroring your iPhone screen on your Mac for tasks like watching videos, streaming content, or recording your iPhone's screen on your Mac.

Steps to mirror an iPhone to a Mac via USB using QuickTime:

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to your Mac with a USB cable.

Step 2. Open QuickTime Player.

Step 3. Press Option + Command + N or go to File > New Movie Recording.

Step 4. Click the arrow next to the Record button and select your iPhone.

Step 5. Your iPhone's screen will now appear on your Mac, ready for viewing, streaming, or recording.

Bonus tip: How to remotely access iPhone from Mac [Long Distance Option]

While controlling an iPhone via USB has its perks, it comes with the drawback of limited range, as the connection relies on physical proximity. For long-distance access, remote desktop software like AnyViewer offers a robust alternative.

AnyViewer enables users to connect to and control devices over the internet, making it ideal for remote technical support, work, or accessing personal devices from anywhere. With AnyViewer, you can view your iPhone's screen on your Mac seamlessly, no matter the distance. 

In addition, AnyViewer enables seamless remote control of a Mac using an iPhone, offering a convenient solution for handling urgent tasks anytime, anywhere.

Steps to view iPhone screen on Mac remotely using AnyViewer:

Step 1. Download and install AnyViewer on your Mac, then launch the app.

Step 2. Click Log in, select Sign up, and create an account.

Step 3. Choose your Mac device and click Mobile Screen Mirroring to generate a QR code.

Step 4. On your iPhone, install AnyViewer, log in with the same account, and tap Start. Use your iPhone to scan the QR code displayed on your Mac, then tap Start Broadcast.

Step 5. Your iPhone screen will now be mirrored on your Mac, offering remote access from virtually anywhere.

★Tips:

Upgrading to a Professional or Enterprise plan offers additional benefits, such as the ability to assign more devices to the same account, enjoy higher image quality, and mirror multiple devices simultaneously, among other features.

Conclusion

Controlling iPhone from Mac via USB is simple and efficient. Tools like AirDroid Cast and iMyFone MirrorTo offer seamless control, while QuickTime enables easy screen mirroring. For long-distance control, AnyViewer provides robust remote access. Whether you're troubleshooting, multitasking, or enjoying mobile gaming, these solutions cater to every need, combining reliability and efficiency. Explore these methods to simplify your workflow and elevate your iPhone-Mac experience.