I have had success over usb cable with my phone but it didn't seem possible with my partner's which is about three yrs younger than mine. I have a Samsung J3.
however in the past I have also used a kind of sftp client which worked well. I did a brief look in the 'PlayStore' and see some options though not the one I used.
someone mentioned 'airmore' which I don't know but likely similar.
I've also had success with gmtp which was mentioned, but that does assume mtp is on the phone.
I'd try the sshfs/sftp route if nothing else avails.
there is sending stuff by email, also suggested. one can also upload to Google-drive.
(assuming Android throughout.)
f.