iPhone Stuck in Recovery Mode? Try These 6 Fixes

If your iPhone is stuck in recovery mode and won’t restore or update, you're not alone. Many users have faced this frustrating issue across various iPhone models, including iPhone 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, and older versions. The screen displays the "Connect to iTunes" logo along with support.apple.com/iphone/restore, but attempts to update or restore via computer repeatedly fail. This article explains why your iPhone is stuck in recovery mode and provides step-by-step fixes.

• Why is your iPhone stuck in recovery mode and won’t restore or update?
• How to fix an iPhone stuck in recovery mode and won’t restore?
• Method 1: Force Reboot iPhone to Exit Recovery Mode
• Method 2: Drain the Battery to Exit Recovery Mode
• Method 3: Restore iPhone Stuck in Recovery Mode with Apple Devices
• Method 4: Put Your iPhone into DFU Mode
• Method 5: Fix iPhone Stuck in Recovery Mode with iSumsoft iOS Refixer
• Method 6: Contact Apple Support

Why is your iPhone stuck in recovery mode and won’t restore or update?

An iPhone stuck in recovery mode is often due to software glitches, failed updates, or corrupted system files. While in recovery mode, the iPhone should be restorable or updatable via iTunes or Finder on a computer. However, several factors can prevent this process.

The reasons for failed updates or restorations while in recovery mode include:

Connection Issues: Faulty USB cables or ports can disrupt communication between your iPhone and computer.

iPhone Issues: Software glitches, insufficient storage, low battery, or hardware malfunctions can cause update or restore failures.

iTunes Issues: Outdated or corrupted iTunes versions can impede proper iPhone communication.

Computer-Related Factors: Outdated drivers or software conflicts on your computer can disrupt iPhone-iTunes connections.

Understanding these potential causes is key to resolving the issue.

How to fix if your iPhone is stuck in recovery mode and won’t restore?

After reinstalling iTunes and switching USB cables and computers, if your iPhone remains stuck, try these effective workarounds.

Method 1: Force Reboot iPhone to Exit Recovery Mode

A force reboot can resolve the recovery mode loop without data loss. It’s a quick and easy solution.

Press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button. Hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.

This method often resolves the issue. If not, proceed to more advanced solutions.

Method 2: Drain the Battery to Exit Recovery Mode

Letting the iPhone battery drain completely can sometimes resolve the issue.

1. Unplug your iPhone and leave it on the recovery mode screen.

2. Wait until the battery is fully drained.

3. Charge your iPhone and let it turn on automatically.

This unconventional method has worked for many users.

Method 3: Restore iPhone Stuck in Recovery Mode with Apple Devices

If iTunes fails to restore your iPhone, try using Apple Devices on your computer.

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer.

2. Open Apple Devices, which should detect your iPhone and offer update or restore options.

3. Choose Update or Restore according to your needs.

Method 4: Put Your iPhone into DFU Mode

DFU Mode is a more advanced recovery option for iPhones stuck in recovery mode.

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer.

2. Press and release Volume Up and Volume Down buttons, then hold the Side button. Release it and hold both Side and Volume Down for 5 seconds, then release Side but keep holding Volume Down for 10 seconds.

3. iTunes or Apple Devices should detect your iPhone in DFU mode and allow you to update or restore it.

Method 5: Fix iPhone Stuck in Recovery Mode with iSumsoft iOS Refixer

iSumsoft iOS Refixer is a third-party tool that can fix iOS issues without data loss.

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer.

2. Download and install iSumsoft iOS Refixer.

3. Select System Repair.

4. Choose Standard Mode to repair without data loss.

5. Confirm and let the software download the necessary firmware.

6. Click Repair to start the repair process.

7. After a few minutes, your iPhone should be repaired and restarted.

Method 6: Contact Apple Support

If all else fails, contact Apple Support for further assistance.

1. Reach out via phone or the Apple Support website.

2. Explain your issue and provide any relevant error codes.

3. Follow their guidance for further troubleshooting or repair options.

Conclusion

An iPhone stuck in recovery mode can be frustrating, but various solutions are available. Try a force reboot, draining the battery, using Apple Devices, DFU mode, or third-party tools like iSumsoft iOS Refixer. By following these steps, you can resolve the issue and return your iPhone to normal operation.