Broken screens on Android phones can be a major inconvenience. Not only does it make it difficult to use your device, but it also poses a risk of losing important data if you’re unable to access it. Whether you’ve dropped your phone and shattered the display or experienced some other form of screen damage, being able to retrieve your data is crucial. In this blog post, we will explore different methods to copy data from an Android phone with a broken screen and discuss their pros and cons.
What’s Needed
To copy data from an Android phone with a broken screen, you will need the following:
- A computer or laptop
- A USB cable
- Third-party software or tools
- An OTG adapter (optional, depending on the method)
Video Tutorial:
What Requires Your Focus?
Before delving into the methods, it is essential to understand the key points to focus on when attempting to copy data from an Android phone with a broken screen:
- Data backup options
- USB debugging and developer options
- Choosing the right method for your situation
Option 1. How to Copy Data via Android File Transfer
One of the simplest methods to copy data from an Android phone with a broken screen is by using the Android File Transfer tool. Follow these steps:
Pros:
- Simple and straightforward
- No additional tools required
Cons:
- Only works if USB debugging is enabled
- May not support all device models
1. Download and install the Android File Transfer tool on your computer.
2. Connect your broken Android phone to the computer using a USB cable.
3. Launch the Android File Transfer tool.
4. If USB debugging is enabled on your phone, you will be able to access the device’s files and folders on your computer.
5. Navigate to the files or folders you want to copy and transfer them to your computer.
Option 2. How to Copy Data via Dr.Fone – Recover (Android)
Dr.Fone – Recover (Android) is a third-party software that allows you to recover data from Android devices with broken screens. Here’s how to use it:
Pros:
- Supports a wide range of Android devices and models
- Allows selective data recovery
- No need to enable USB debugging
Cons:
- Requires installation of third-party software
- Premium version may be required for full functionality
1. Download and install Dr.Fone – Recover (Android) on your computer.
2. Connect your broken Android phone to the computer using a USB cable.
3. Launch Dr.Fone – Recover (Android).
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and analyze your device.
5. Once the device is detected, you will be able to select the types of files you want to recover.
6. Click on the "Recover" button to start the data recovery process.
7. Wait for the software to scan and retrieve the data from your broken phone.
8. Once the scanning is complete, you can preview the recovered files and select the ones you want to save on your computer.
Note: The free version of Dr.Fone – Recover (Android) has limitations on the amount of data you can recover. Consider purchasing the premium version if you need to recover a larger amount of data.
Option 3. How to Copy Data via ADB Commands
If you’re familiar with Android Debug Bridge (ADB) commands, you can use them to copy data from an Android phone with a broken screen. Here’s how:
Pros:
- Does not require USB debugging or third-party software
- Allows full control over the device’s file system
Cons:
- Requires familiarity with ADB commands
- May be complex for users without technical knowledge
1. Ensure that the necessary ADB drivers are installed on your computer.
2. Connect your broken Android phone to the computer using a USB cable.
3. Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer.
4. Enter the following command: adb devices to check if your device is detected.
5. If your device is listed, proceed with the following command: adb pull /sdcard/ to copy all files from the internal storage to your computer.
6. Wait for the process to complete, and all the files will be saved to the specified location on your computer.
Option 4. How to Copy Data via SD Card
If your Android phone has an SD card slot and your important data is stored on the external storage, you can remove the SD card and copy the data directly. Here’s how:
Pros:
- No need to access the broken screen
- Simple and easy if the data is stored on the external SD card
Cons:
- Requires physical removal of the SD card
- Data may not be stored on the external SD card
1. Power off your Android phone.
2. Locate the SD card slot and carefully remove the SD card.
3. Insert the SD card into an appropriate card reader or adapter.
4. Connect the card reader or adapter to your computer.
5. Open the file explorer on your computer and locate the SD card.
6. Copy the desired files from the SD card to your computer.
Why Can’t I Use Other Methods?
While the above methods cover various ways to copy data from an Android phone with a broken screen, there may be situations where these methods are not applicable. Here are three alternative solutions to consider:
1. Data recovery service: If the data on your broken Android phone is extremely valuable and you’re unable to recover it on your own, you can consider professional data recovery services. These services specialize in recovering data from damaged devices but can be costly.
2. Screen repair: If the broken screen is the only issue with your Android phone, you can consider getting it repaired. Once the screen is fixed, you will be able to access and copy your data normally.
3. Contact manufacturer or service center: If your Android phone is under warranty or covered by a service contract, it’s advisable to contact the manufacturer or service center for assistance. They may have specific methods or tools to recover data from broken devices.
Implications and Recommendations
When dealing with a broken screen on an Android phone, it’s essential to consider the following implications and recommendations:
1. Regular data backup: To avoid the risk of losing data, make it a habit to regularly back up your Android phone’s data to an external storage device or cloud service.
2. Enable USB debugging: Before your screen breaks, enable USB debugging and developer options on your Android phone. This ensures that you have the necessary permissions to access your device’s files even if the screen is damaged.
3. Use a screen protector and protective case: To prevent screen damage, consider using a screen protector and a protective case for your Android phone. These accessories can provide an extra layer of protection against accidental drops or impacts.
The Bottom Line
Dealing with a broken screen on an Android phone can be frustrating, especially if you need to access your important data. However, with the right methods and tools, you can still copy your data and prevent data loss. From using Android File Transfer to third-party software and ADB commands, there are multiple options to choose from. Consider the pros and cons, as well as the specific requirements of your situation, to select the most suitable method. And remember, regular data backups are always a recommended practice to avoid such situations.
5 FAQs about Copying Data from an Android Phone with a Broken Screen
Q1: Can I copy data from my Android phone with a broken screen if USB debugging is not enabled?
A: If USB debugging is not enabled on your Android phone, it may limit your options for directly accessing and copying data from the device. However, you can still explore alternative methods such as third-party software or contacting professional data recovery services.
Q2: Will using third-party software to recover data from my Android phone with a broken screen void the warranty?
A: Using third-party software like Dr.Fone – Recover (Android) does not necessarily void the warranty on your Android phone. However, it’s always recommended to check your device’s warranty terms and conditions or consult the manufacturer before using any third-party software.
Q3: Are there any risks involved in using ADB commands to copy data from my broken Android phone?
A: Using ADB commands does come with potential risks, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. It’s essential to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any unintended consequences. Additionally, keep in mind that ADB commands may vary depending on your device and software version.
Q4: Can I copy data from the internal storage of my Android phone if it does not have an external SD card slot?
A: If your Android phone does not have an external SD card slot, you will primarily rely on methods that involve connecting the device to a computer. Options like Android File Transfer, Dr.Fone – Recover (Android), or ADB commands can help in accessing and copying data from the internal storage.
Q5: Can I use these methods to recover data from a completely unresponsive Android phone?
A: The methods discussed in this blog post primarily focus on recovering data from Android phones with broken screens. If your phone is completely unresponsive and shows no signs of life, these methods may not be applicable. In such cases, it’s best to consult a professional data recovery service for assistance.