How to Fix iPhone/iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode?

August 21, 2023
Fix iPad Issues

In the world of mobile devices, Apple’s iPhone and iPad have established themselves as leaders in technology, design, and user experience. However, even these advanced devices are not immune to occasional glitches and issues. One such issue is being stuck in recovery mode, a frustrating situation that can leave users feeling helpless. This article delves into the concept of recovery mode, explores the reasons behind iPhones and iPads getting stuck in recovery mode, and offers solutions to address this problem, including the use of AimerLab FixMate for advanced troubleshooting.
How to Fix iPhone or iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode

1. How to Put iPhone/iPad into recovery mode?

Recovery mode is a specialized state in which iPhones and iPads enter when there is a problem with their operating system or firmware. This mode provides a way to restore, update, or troubleshoot the device through iTunes or Finder on macOS Catalina and later. To enter recovery mode, users typically need to connect their device to a computer and follow specific key combinations, triggering the device to display the “Connect to iTunes” or lightning cable logo.

Here’s how you can put your iPhone or iPad into recovery mode:

For iPhone 8 and Later Models:
Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable, press and quickly release Volume Up button, then do the same action to the Volume Download button. Press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo, release when you see the recovery mode screen.
Enter recovery mode (iPhone 8 and above)
For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus:
Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable, press and hold the Volume Down and the Power button when you see the Apple logo, then release both buttons when the recovery mode screen appears.
Enter recovery mode (iPhone 7 and plus)

For iPhone 6s and Earlier Models or iPad:Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable, press and hold the Power button when you see the Apple logo, release this button when you see the recovery mode screen.
Enter recovery mode (iPhone 6 and earlier)

2. Why my iPhone/iPad stuck in recovery mode?

  • Failed Software Update: One common reason for devices getting stuck in recovery mode is a failed software update. If an update is interrupted or not completed successfully, the device can become trapped in recovery mode as a protective measure to prevent potential data corruption.
  • Corrupted Firmware: A corrupted firmware can also lead to recovery mode issues. If the firmware is damaged during an update or due to other factors, the device may be unable to boot normally.
  • Hardware Glitches: Sometimes, hardware glitches or faults can cause the device to enter recovery mode. These issues might include faulty buttons, connectors, or even components on the motherboard.
  • Jailbreaking: Jailbreaking, which involves bypassing Apple’s restrictions to gain more control over the device, can result in stability issues. Stuck in recovery mode could be one of the consequences.
  • Malware or Virus: Although relatively rare on iOS devices, malware or viruses could potentially lead to system instability and recovery mode problems.

3. How to Fix iPhone/iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode

Here are the steps to fix an iPhone or iPad stuck in recovery mode:

  • Force Restart: Attempt a force restart by pressing and holding the power button along with the volume down button (iPhone 8 or later) or the home button (iPhone 7 and earlier) until the Apple logo appears.

  • Use iTunes/Finder: Connect the device to a computer with iTunes or Finder open. Choose the “Restore” option to reinstall the device’s firmware. Be aware that this method may result in data loss.

  • Check Hardware: Inspect the device for any physical damage or malfunctioning components. If hardware issues are detected, seek professional repair.

  • Update or Restore in Recovery Mode: If none of the above solutions work, updating or restoring the device using recovery mode might resolve the problem. However, this can lead to data loss, so ensure you have a backup.

4. Advanced Method to Fix iPhone/iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode

If you can’t resolve your iPhone or iPad stuck in recovery mode with the methods above, then AimerLab FixMate provides a reliable and advanced solutions to help you to fix a range of iOS-related problems, including stuck on recovery mode, stuck on white Apple logo, stuck on updating, boot loop and other issues.

Let’s check the steps to use use AimerLab FixMate to resolve your iPhone/iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode:

Step 1
: Download and install FixMate on your computer by clicking the button below.


Step 2: Launch FixMate and use a verified USB cord to attach your iPhone to the computer. If your device is successfully recognized, it’s status will be displayed on the interface.
FixMate connect iphone 12 to computer
Step 3
: After FixMate has identified your iPhone, select “Exit Recovery Mode” from the menu.
FixMate enter and exit recovery mode
Step 4: FixMate will get your iPhone out of recovery mode immediately, and you iPhone will restart and get back to normal.
FixMate Exit recovery mode
Step 5: If you have any other system problems on your iPhone, you can click the “Start” button to use the “Fix iOS System Issues” feature to fix these issues.
iPhone 12 connect to computer

Step 6: Select a repair mode to resolve your issues. The standard repair allows you to resolve basic system issues without deleting data from your device, but the deep repair allows you to resolve critical problems but will erase all of your data.
FixMate Choose Standard Repair
Step 7: After choosing the repair mode, FixMate identifies your device’s model and suggests the best firmware version. You then need to click “Repair” to begin downloading the firmware package.
iPhone 12 download firmware

Step 8: When the firmware download is complete, FixMate will put your iPhone into recovery mode and begin fixing iOS system issues.
Standard Repair in Process

Step 9: After the repair is complete, your iPhone will restart, and it will not be stuck in recovery mode or have any other system issues.
Standard Repair Completed

5. Conclusion

Stuck in recovery mode is a frustrating issue that can be caused by a variety of factors, from failed updates to hardware problems. Understanding the causes of this problem and knowing how to resolve it can save you from unnecessary stress and data loss. While basic solutions like force restarting and using iTunes/Finder are effective for many cases, advanced tools like AimerLab FixMate can provide an easy and efficient way to fix more complex issues, suggest downloading FixMate and give it a try!