An iPhone stuck on Apple logo is incredibly frustrating, even more so to those who understand how common this problem really is. From the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max to an older model like the iPhone SE (1st Gen), the unfortunate reality is that most iPhone users will experience a stuck Apple logo at one point or another. Not to worry; you can take several troubleshooting steps to fix it.
This guide will show you how to fix your iPhone stuck on Apple logo using simple and advanced solutions. Let’s get started.
Why Does an iPhone Get Stuck on Apple Logo?
Let’s look at some causes behind this issue before we consider the solution:
- Software glitches: The usual suspects of a software glitch are usually corrupt files on your device or interrupted processes during startup.
- Failed updates: It is often overlooked how crucial software updates are on your iPhone. That being said, an incomplete or compromised iOS update has often been identified as the cause behind an iPhone frozen on the Apple logo.
- Jailbreaking: While jailbreaking your device offers more personalisation, it can also destabilise your phone’s operating system and create issues that require you to fix an iPhone boot loop.
- Hardware damage: Another cause for startup failures could be the result of wear and tear. Physical impact, water damage, overheating, and connector damage are the usual triggers.
Basic Fixes for an iPhone Stuck on Apple Logo
1. Force Restart
Usually, the first solution to try, a force restart could be considered an easy Apple logo freeze fix. How you restart your iPhone depends on the model:
iPhone 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, XS, XR, and X series:
1. Quickly press Volume Up.
2. Quickly press Volume Down.
3. Hold the Side button until the screen turns black and the Apple logo reappears.
iPhone 8 and SE (2nd/3rd Gen):
The same steps as above: Volume Up ➔ Volume Down ➔ Side button.
iPhone 7 and 7 Plus:
Hold the Volume Down and Power buttons together until the Apple logo disappears and reappears.
iPhone 6s, iPhone 6, and SE (1st Gen):
Hold the Home button and Power button together until the Apple logo disappears and reappears.
2. Check for Update Issues
A common reason for an iPhone getting stuck on the Apple logo could be a software update issue. Guaranteeing that your phone has enough storage for an update is essential in preventing complications on devices like the iPhone 7 and iPhone 6s. Remove unnecessary apps, back up old data, and clear caches to effectively manage storage space. If the update fails, try again. To verify the update finished successfully, connect your iPhone to a computer and launch iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
Advanced Solutions for iPhone Stuck on Apple Logo
Attempting more complex troubleshooting techniques will be necessary if the basic fixes prove ineffective.
1. Use Recovery Mode
Recovery mode, a troubleshooting tool, is used to restore or update your iPhone. While in recovery mode, the device can receive an installation of iOS or repair a corrupted system by bypassing the usual boot process.
This advanced solution can help restore your iPhone without the fear of causing permanent damage to your data. Here’s how it’s done:
- Connect your iPhone to a computer using a certified cable.
- Enter recovery mode based on your model.
iPhone 15 to iPhone 8 series: Quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, and hold the Side button until the recovery mode screen appears.
iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Hold the Volume Down and Power button together until the recovery mode screen appears.
iPhone 6s and earlier: Hold the Home button and Power button together until the recovery mode screen appears.
- Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina or later). You’ll be prompted to either restore or update your iPhone. Choose “Update” to ensure you don’t lose any of your data.
2. Enter DFU Mode
If recovery mode fails to fix the predicament, try DFU mode (Device Firmware Update). DFU mode will reinstall your device’s software and firmware.
- Connect your iPhone to a computer using a certified cable.
- Enter DFU mode depending on your device:
iPhone 15 to iPhone 8 series: Quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, hold the Side button until the screen goes black, then hold Volume Down for 5 seconds while releasing the Side button.
iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Hold the Volume Down and Power button for 10 seconds, then release the Power button while continuing to hold Volume Down.
iPhone 6s and earlier: Hold the Home button and Power button for 10 seconds, then release the Power button while continuing to hold the Home button.
- Follow the on-screen instructions in iTunes or Finder to restore your iPhone.
Important note: DFU mode should always be used as an extreme measure. It will erase all your data and could cause potential hardware complications.
When to Seek Professional Help
In response to your iPhone still stuck on the Apple logo after trying these solutions, find professional services that could provide support for the complexity of the problem.
Signs You Need Help
In the event of physical damage, always find trusted technicians or third-party repair services with the knowledge of how to fix the device confidently. These damages include physical damage, particularly a cracked screen, severe water damage, a damaged charging port, a broken camera, or battery swelling or leakage.
Another sign that you should seek a specialised repair service is the inability to fix iPhone boot loops, especially when both recovery and DFU modes fail. This suggests a much deeper issue, such as hardware failure, corrupted iOS firmware, and faulty components.
Contact Apple Support, visit an Apple Store, or seek help from a certified third-party repair service.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Problems
- The easiest way to prevent software glitches is to commit to regular iOS updates.
- The cons of jailbreaking your device far outweigh the pros associated with it. Not only does it pose significant safety risks and stability issues, but it could also lead to incompatibility with updates and boot loops.
- Our data is important; therefore, it’s crucial to do regular backups to either iCloud or iTunes. Backing up your device could save you from a data wipe while troubleshooting.
- Always confirm that your device has sufficient storage space before committing to update installation.
- Find compatible, certified products and accessories for your iPhone. Low-cost, uncertified chargers and cables could cause hardware issues that are difficult to correct.
The Path to a Solution Exists
Getting your iPhone stuck on the Apple logo is a frustrating experience, but it’s often solvable with the right approach. From force restarts to advanced fixes like recovery mode and DFU mode, there’s a solution for every user and every model. Follow these tips to prevent future issues by confirming that your device is updated, avoiding risky actions like jailbreaking, and regularly backing up your data to guarantee that no loss occurs.
These tips have been thoroughly researched and presented to guarantee that you can easily follow them step by step on your own. If all else fails, there are professional services available to help solve these multifaceted matters; for this reason, you shouldn’t worry too much about not having all the answers—they will. Feel free to share this guide with anyone facing similar challenges and rest easy knowing you’re equipped to fix an iPhone stuck on the Apple logo with self-assurance.