AltTunes vs TeamViewer: Which is Better for iPhone Access on Windows?

TeamViewer let me see my iPhone screen, but I couldn't actually get my vacation photos onto my PC. AltTunes transferred all 500+ photos directly to my computer in minutes. Huge difference when you actually need your files.
– Thomas, Business Traveler
This limitation frustrates Windows users who need real file access, not just remote viewing. While TeamViewer can display your iPhone screen, it cannot transfer the files you actually need.

AltTunes vs TeamViewer: iPhone-to-Windows Comparison
Feature | TeamViewer | AltTunes |
---|---|---|
File Transfer | ❌ Not possible from iPhone | ✅ Complete file transfer capability |
Photo Access | ❌ View only | ✅ Full transfer of entire photo library |
Message Backup | ❌ Not supported | ✅ Save entire message history to PC |
Music Transfer | ❌ Not possible | ✅ Transfer music to/from iPhone |
Offline Operation | ❌ Internet required | ✅ Works completely offline |
Privacy | ⚠️ Data passes through servers | ✅ Direct connection, maximum privacy |
How to Use AltTunes for Actual iPhone File Access

- Download and install: Get AltTunes from Softorino's website
- Connect your iPhone: Use your standard USB cable
- Access any content: Photos, videos, messages, contacts, and more
- Transfer to PC: Move files to any folder with simple drag and drop

Marketing manager Elena J. needed to access client presentation files from her iPhone. TeamViewer could only show the files on screen, while AltTunes allowed her to transfer the actual files to her PC for editing.
Why TeamViewer Falls Short for iPhone Users
Viewing Without Transferring
TeamViewer's iPhone integration is extremely limited," explains tech blogger Michael R. "You can see your screen but can't interact with files or transfer anything to your PC. It's like window shopping without being able to buy anything.
Privacy and Internet Concerns
TeamViewer requires:
- Constant internet connection
- Data passing through third-party servers
- Account creation and login
- Exposed screen content during viewing sessions
When TeamViewer Might Still Be Useful
Despite its limitations for file access, TeamViewer might be suitable when:
You only need to view your iPhone screen remotely
You're providing remote support to someone else's iPhone
You don't need to transfer any actual files

Conclusion
TeamViewer provides basic remote viewing but completely lacks the file transfer capabilities most Windows users need when connecting their iPhone. AltTunes fills this gap by focusing on practical file access rather than just screen sharing.
For Windows users who need to actually transfer content from their iPhone, AltTunes delivers functionality that TeamViewer simply wasn't designed to provide.
FAQs
How to transfer files from iPhone to PC without iTunes?
AltTunes provides direct file transfers from iPhone to Windows PC without iTunes. Unlike TeamViewer, which only allows screen viewing, AltTunes gives you access to the actual files on your iPhone.
Can TeamViewer transfer photos from iPhone to PC?
No, TeamViewer can only display your iPhone screen but cannot transfer photos or any other files to your PC. AltTunes specifically addresses this limitation by providing complete photo transfer capabilities.
What's the best way to back up iPhone messages to PC?
AltTunes allows you to export your entire message history, including attachments, to your Windows PC. TeamViewer provides no message backup capabilities whatsoever.
How to access iPhone files on Windows without cloud?
AltTunes gives you direct access to iPhone files via USB connection without cloud services. TeamViewer only provides screen viewing and requires internet connection for all functions.
Can I transfer iPhone data without internet connection?
Yes, AltTunes works completely offline, transferring files directly via USB. TeamViewer requires an internet connection at all times and cannot function offline.