wondershare file recovery - won't recognize galaxy S4 on macbook

I am trying to recover deleted files (photos, videos and s-memo) from Samsung Galaxy S4. I downloaded Wondershare application but my macbook will only recognize the phone for a minute. Wondershare doesn't recognize the Galaxy S4 as a device to scan.

Welcome to AC :)
Have you downloaded Android file transfer on your Macbook? Are you not able to transfer anything else directly from the laptop to the phone or vice versa?

I have download Kies 3 for Mac and Wondershare Data Recovery. Other USB device (rugged storage device) has worked.

Originally Posted by barbie2575

I have download Kies 3 for Mac and Wondershare Data Recovery. Other USB device (rugged storage device) has worked.

You need Android File Transfer too: https://www.android.com/filetransfer/

ok - i just did that and it says that it can't connect and try restarting or reconnecting device. I did both and still no go.

Originally Posted by barbie2575

ok - i just did that and it says that it can't connect and try restarting or reconnecting device. I did both and still no go.

OK, on your phone, there should be a message in the status bar that says it's connected. Tap that, and make sure it's set to MTP, not PTP.

yup - MTP is checked. i appreciate your step by step help!

Originally Posted by barbie2575

yup - MTP is checked. i appreciate your step by step help!

And the laptop still isn't recognizing it or is it just Wondershare now?

both - only Android File Transfer and the Wondershare show up in "Finder" under devices. When I plug in the USB from phone, it shows up under devices for about 10seconds then dissapears.

Originally Posted by barbie2575

both - only Android File Transfer and the Wondershare show up in "Finder" under devices. When I plug in the USB from phone, it shows up under devices for about 10seconds then dissapears.

That's really weird. It's usually either the device isn't recognized or it is. Never one and then the other within a matter of seconds. Are you running the latest version of Kies?

I just downloaded Kies today - Kies 3.0.1.14072_3
I feel like there must be something very simple that I'm missing.....

Do I need some kind of Samsung application downloaded?

Originally Posted by barbie2575

Do I need some kind of Samsung application downloaded?

You shouldn't. My S4 connected to my Macbook only with Android File Transfer. Didn't have to download anything.
Just wondering, did you reboot your laptop or your phone?

I did reboot the phone - i'll do the computer now.

reboot = no change.....

Originally Posted by barbie2575

reboot = no change.....

Do you have any different USB cables you can try connecting the phone with?