In case you want to control your Android phone from the PC, screen mirroring or using apps such as Scrcpy, USB Debugging needs to be enabled.

Although it’s often seen as a developer feature, USB Debugging is essential for everyday users too.

It allows you to mirror their screen, control their phone with a keyboard and mouse, record their display, or even use their device wirelessly without rooting it.

Since the steps vary slightly between Android brands, this guide shows you how to enable USB Debugging on Samsung, Google Pixel, Xiaomi, OnePlus, OPPO, vivo, Motorola, Realme, Nothing Phone, and more, so you can quickly get started with Scrcpy.

Steps to Enable USB Debugging on Android (All Brands)

Android hides USB Debugging by default.

First, you’ll need to unlock Developer Options.

Fortunately, this process is almost identical across every Android phone.

Step 1: Open Settings

Launch the Settings app on your Android device.

Step 2: Open About Phone

Scroll to the bottom and tap:

About Phone

Some manufacturers may use:

• About Device
• Device Information
• My Phone

Step 3: Find Build Number

Depending on your Android version, the Build Number may appear under:

• Software Information
• Version
• Software Version

If you can’t find it immediately, use the search bar in Settings and search for Build Number.

Step 4: Tap Build Number Seven Times

We have to tap Build Number seven consecutive times.

Whereas most of the time there are different options to tap, as given below:

• Software Version
• OS Version
• MIUI Version
• HyperOS Version

We have to tap seven times on one of them, which will appear according to your Android brand and version.

If your phone has a screen lock enabled, you’ll be asked to enter your PIN, password, or pattern.

Once complete, Android displays:

“You are now a developer!”

You have successfully activated Developer Options.

Where to Find Developer Options?

On most Android devices, you’ll find Developer Options in one of these locations:

• Settings → System → Developer Options
• Settings → Additional Settings → Developer Options
• Settings → Advanced Settings → Developer Options
• Settings → Developer Options

The exact step depends on your phone manufacturer, which we’ll cover in the next sections.

Step 5: Enable USB Debugging

• Open setting
• Go to Developer Options by following the above steps according to your Android brand
• Enable USB debugging by toggling the button.

Why Does Scrcpy Need USB Debugging?

If you’re reading this article, then you want to use Scrcpy; USB Debugging is the very first requirement.

Scrcpy uses the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) to create a fast, low-latency connection between your Android phone and your computer. Without USB Debugging enabled, Scrcpy won’t be able to detect or control your device.

Enabling USB Debugging will not change anything on your phone nor make your warranty invalid. It just grants your PC access to your phone once you accept the connection.

Once it’s turned on, you can take advantage of some incredibly useful features.

Mirror Your Android Screen

Scrcpy shows your Android screen directly on your computer without looking down at your phone.

This is perfect for:

• Watching videos
• Presentations
• Demonstrations
• Live streaming
• Screen recording

Control Your Phone with Keyboard and Mouse

Typing long messages on a phone isn’t always convenient.

Thanks to Scrcpy, your PC’s keyboard and mouse become the main controller of your phone and will help navigate through your Android quickly.

You can:

• Open apps
• Reply to messages
• Browse social media
• Install applications
• Manage files

All without touching your phone.

Record Your Android Screen

Need to create a tutorial or record gameplay?

Scrcpy includes built-in screen recording support without requiring third-party applications.

It’s widely used by:

• YouTubers
• Android reviewers
• Developers
• Teachers
• App testers

Use Scrcpy Wirelessly

Many people assume Scrcpy only works over USB.

Actually, once USB Debugging is enabled and your device is paired, you can switch to a wireless connection over Wi-Fi.

That means:

• No USB cable clutter
• Greater freedom
• Cleaner workstation
• Remote Android control

No Root Required

One of Scrcpy’s biggest advantages is that it works without rooting your phone.

In contrast to other Android managers, Scrcpy provides both security and complex features to use.

Is USB Debugging Safe?

Yes, USB Debugging is completely safe when used correctly.

Enabling it doesn’t expose your phone to the internet or automatically grant access to your data. Every new computer must first be approved through an authorization prompt on your phone.

You’ll typically see a message asking: “Allow USB debugging?“

Only after tapping Allow will that computer be able to communicate with your device.

For extra security:

• Only connect to trusted computers.
• Don’t authorize public or shared PCs.
• Turn off USB Debugging when you’re finished using it.

Normally, people turn on USB Debugging only when working with such applications as Scrcpy, Android Studio, or ADB commands.

Wrapping Words

Enabling USB Debugging is quick and easy, no matter which Android brand you use.

Upon enabling, the user will be able to connect their phone with Scrcpy and enjoy services such as screen mirroring, controlling the screen through a mouse and keyboard, screen recording, and others without having to root the phone.

If you have trouble connecting, simply check that USB Debugging is enabled, approve the authorization prompt, and use a compatible USB cable.

With everything set up, you’re ready to get the most out of Scrcpy and manage your Android device directly from your PC.