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How to Fix an iPhone Stuck on the Apple Logo (Bootloop) using an IPSW File

June 20, 20267 min read

One of the most frustrating experiences for an iPhone user is the dreaded "boot loop." This occurs when your device continuously restarts, displaying the Apple logo but never fully booting into iOS. It can happen after a failed update, a software glitch, or even due to storage issues.

While a boot loop might seem like a hardware failure, it is most often a software issue that can be fixed. By manually flashing a clean IPSW firmware file, you can rewrite the corrupted operating system and bring your iPhone back to life.

Why is My iPhone Stuck on the Apple Logo?

A boot loop typically happens because the iOS operating system cannot successfully complete its startup routine. Common causes include:

  • Failed OTA Update: An Over-The-Air update was interrupted or corrupted during installation.
  • Jailbreaking: Modifications to the root file system went wrong or are incompatible.
  • Full Storage: If an iPhone runs completely out of storage space, it may crash and fail to boot.
  • Hardware Damage: In rare cases, a damaged battery, logic board, or Face ID sensor can cause a boot loop. (If the IPSW restore fails, hardware is likely the culprit.)

Two Methods: Recovery Mode vs. DFU Mode

To fix a boot loop, you need to force the iPhone into a state where it can communicate with a computer without booting the OS. There are two modes for this:

  1. Recovery Mode: Uses the iBoot bootloader. It's easier to enter and allows you to "Update" (reinstall iOS without losing data) or "Restore" (erase everything). Try this first.
  2. DFU Mode: Bypasses the bootloader and talks directly to the hardware. It is the deepest possible restore and will erase all data. Use this if Recovery Mode fails.

Preparation: Download Your IPSW

To save time and avoid iTunes errors, download the correct IPSW file for your specific iPhone model beforehand. Go to our iOS firmware section, select your device, and download the latest "Signed" version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Connect to Your Computer

Use a certified Lightning or USB-C cable to connect the boot-looping iPhone to your Mac or Windows PC. Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes/Apple Devices app (Windows).

2. Force Restart into Recovery Mode

For iPhone 8 and newer: Press and quickly release Volume Up. Press and quickly release Volume Down. Press and hold the Side button. Keep holding it even when you see the Apple logo, until the "Connect to Computer" screen appears.

3. Choose Update or Restore

Your computer will prompt that there is a problem with the iPhone. To try fixing it without losing data, hold Option (Mac) or Shift (Windows) and click "Update", then select your downloaded IPSW. If that fails, repeat the process but hold Option/Shift and click "Restore iPhone" to erase and reinstall.

4. Wait for the Installation

The computer will extract the IPSW file and flash it to the device. The iPhone screen will show an Apple logo with a progress bar. Do not disconnect the cable until the "Hello" screen appears.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my photos and data?

If you click "Update" in Recovery Mode, your data should remain intact. If you click "Restore" or use DFU Mode, all data will be erased. You can restore your data afterward if you have an iCloud or computer backup.

What if iTunes gives me Error 4013 or Error 9?

These errors usually indicate a communication issue between the computer and the device. Try using a different, original Apple cable, a different USB port, or a different computer. If the error persists even in DFU mode, it may be a hardware failure.

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