What is DFU mode?
DFU stands for “Device Firmware Update” mode. It’s a low-level interface for restoring or updating an iPhone’s software (1). When an iPhone enters DFU mode, the screen goes completely black. The device is essentially in a comatose state, waiting for instructions from a computer (2).
DFU mode allows the iPhone’s firmware to be completely restored or updated. It provides a connection between the iPhone and a computer without loading the full iOS operating system. This is useful when the iPhone is having major software issues that standard restore methods can’t fix.
When does an iPhone get stuck in DFU mode?
An iPhone can get stuck in DFU mode for a few common reasons:
During a failed firmware update – If the firmware update gets interrupted or fails, it can cause the iPhone to get stuck in recovery mode trying to install the update. This is one of the most common causes of an iPhone getting stuck in DFU mode (https://www.ukeysoft.com/fix/iphone-stuck-in-dfu-mode.html).
After restoring the phone using iTunes – The restore process itself can sometimes fail and cause the iPhone to get stuck in DFU mode. If the restore gets interrupted at a key point, it may leave the iPhone unable to exit DFU mode.
If the phone crashes or freezes during an update – If the iPhone crashes, loses power, or freezes during a firmware update or restore, it could get stuck in DFU mode. The update process was interrupted, leaving the iPhone in a boot loop.
In general, any interruption of an update, restore, or firmware change can potentially result in the iPhone getting stuck in DFU mode. The key is getting the iPhone safely out of this state so it can finish installing the firmware update or complete the restore process.
How to get out of DFU mode
There are a few different methods you can try to get your iPhone out of DFU mode:
One option is to force restart your iPhone by holding down the power button and volume down button together for 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears. This can power cycle your iPhone and get it out of recovery mode. Per Coolmuster, force restarting your iPhone may allow it to exit DFU mode and boot up normally again.
You can also try using a different Lightning cable. Sometimes a bad or faulty cable is the reason an iPhone is stuck in DFU mode. Switching to a brand new Apple certified Lightning cable may do the trick. As noted on Fonelab, using a quality cable is important for properly connecting to iTunes and exiting DFU mode.
Additionally, you can update to the latest version of iTunes and update your iPhone firmware. iTunes may need to be updated to recognize and communicate properly with your iPhone in order to restore it from DFU mode. Make sure you have the latest firmware downloaded as well so your iPhone can be fully updated after restoring. As explained on Joyoshare, having the most up-to-date software is key when attempting to exit DFU mode.
Fixing recovery mode loop
If your iPhone is stuck in a repetitive loop of exiting and re-entering DFU mode when you try to restore, there are a few things you can try:
First, enter DFU mode again and attempt to restore the firmware. Instructions for entering DFU mode can be found on Apple’s support page. Make sure you are restoring the correct firmware for your iPhone model.
If that doesn’t work, try updating to the latest version of iTunes on your computer, then connect your iPhone and attempt the restore again. The latest iTunes may contain fixes that allow the restore to complete successfully.
As a last resort, try restoring on a different computer entirely. For some reason, certain computer and iPhone combinations may have issues completing the DFU restore process. Moving to a different computer could allow the process to complete.
If none of these steps succeed in pulling your iPhone out of the recovery loop, you will likely need to contact Apple support or visit an Apple store for assistance.
Fixing update failed errors
One of the common issues that can cause an iPhone to get stuck in DFU mode is failing software updates. If you encounter errors or failure messages when trying to update the iOS version, there are a few troubleshooting steps to try:
First, you can delete the iOS update file from your iPhone and try downloading and installing it again. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. If you see the iOS update file listed there, tap on it and select Delete Update. Then retry checking for and installing the latest iOS update.
If errors persist, the next step is to put the iPhone into recovery mode and restore it using iTunes or Finder on a computer. To enter recovery mode, connect the iPhone to your computer while powered off. Then hold down the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen. You can then restore the device, which will install a fresh copy of the iOS.
As a last resort, reinstalling the latest version of iTunes or Finder on your computer can resolve underlying software issues causing failed updates. After reinstalling, retry restoring the iPhone in recovery mode [1].
Performing a clean restore often resolves persistent update failures related to DFU mode. If issues continue even after following these steps, you may need to contact Apple support for further troubleshooting.
Fixing frozen screen issues
One of the main causes of an iPhone getting stuck in DFU mode is a frozen screen. There are a few methods you can try to fix a frozen iPhone screen:
Hard reset by holding the power and home buttons – Press and hold both the power and home buttons for at least 10 seconds. This will force your iPhone to restart. If the Apple logo doesn’t appear after holding the buttons, repeat the steps.
Charge your iPhone for at least 10 minutes – A frozen screen is often caused by a drained battery. Plug your iPhone into a charger and let it charge for 10+ minutes before attempting to turn it on again. This may provide enough charge to get the phone to power back on.
Try using a different charging cable – Faulty lightning cables are a common cause of charging issues which can lead to a frozen screen. Swap out your current lightning cable and try charging with a different one.
If your iPhone is still having a frozen screen after trying these steps, it likely requires a restore through iTunes to fully fix the problem. Contact Apple support if a restore does not work.
Fixing connection issues
If your iPhone is stuck in DFU mode but iTunes or Finder can’t detect it, you likely have a connection issue preventing the software from recognizing your device. Here are some troubleshooting steps to try:
Use a different USB port – Connect your iPhone to another USB port on your computer. The original port may be damaged or not providing enough power.
Reinstall USB drivers – On Windows, uninstall and reinstall the latest Apple USB drivers from https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204095. This will refresh the connection between your iPhone and computer.
Try a different USB cable – The cable may be frayed or faulty. Swap in a high-quality MFi certified lightning cable and see if that resolves the detection issue.
If you’ve tried other troubleshooting without success, the USB port or cable is likely the culprit. Investing in a new cable and directly connecting your iPhone to the computer’s USB port should allow iTunes/Finder to recognize your device in DFU mode.
Software fixes
A common cause of iPhones getting stuck in DFU mode is software issues. The two main software fixes to try are updating your iPhone to the latest iOS version and updating iTunes to the newest version.
To update your iPhone software, connect it to your computer while in DFU mode and launch iTunes. iTunes should recognize the iPhone and prompt you to update it. Click OK and let the update complete. This will install the newest iOS software on your iPhone which often resolves DFU issues caused by bugs in older iOS versions. Make sure your computer has an internet connection so iTunes can download the latest iOS software from Apple’s servers 1.
Along with iOS, also make sure you have the latest version of iTunes installed. Old iTunes versions may not work properly with newer iPhones. Go to the iTunes page and download the newest version. Connect your iPhone and try restoring again in DFU mode 2.
If updating iOS and iTunes doesn’t work on your current computer, try connecting your iPhone to a different computer and restoring via DFU mode there. Sometimes the DFU process fails due to computer-specific issues that a change in hardware can fix.
Hardware Issues
Sometimes getting stuck in DFU mode can be caused by an underlying hardware issue with your iPhone XR. Here are some things to check:
Check for any physical or water damage. If your iPhone has been dropped or exposed to water, this can cause hardware damage that results in getting stuck in DFU mode. Inspect your device carefully for any cracks, dents, or other signs of physical damage.
Contact Apple Support if your iPhone is still under warranty. If there is no obvious physical damage, the issue may be an internal hardware fault covered by Apple’s limited warranty. Apple can run diagnostics and determine if your iPhone qualifies for a free repair or replacement.
May require service for a hardware fault. If your iPhone is out of warranty, you may need to take it to an Apple Authorized Service Provider for diagnosis and repair. The cost will vary depending on the specific hardware issue. Common faults like failed logic boards can often be repaired, which is less costly than replacing the entire device.
Getting stuck in DFU mode due to hardware problems may not always have an easy fix. But checking for physical damage, contacting Apple Support, and being open to a potential repair can help resolve the issue.
When to contact Apple Support
If your iPhone remains stuck in DFU mode after trying the recommended fixes, it’s best to contact Apple Support for additional help. Here are some scenarios when you may need to reach out to Apple:
- You’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps but your iPhone is still stuck in DFU mode.
- Your iPhone is no longer under warranty but you need assistance from Apple to resolve the DFU mode issue.
- You need guidance walking through advanced troubleshooting steps that require technical knowledge.
Apple’s team of advisors can run diagnostics, provide tailored troubleshooting, and advise next steps. They may recommend you bring your iPhone into an Apple Store for inspection and repair if needed. Support options include calling Apple Support, chatting online, booking a callback, or scheduling a Genius Bar appointment.
Before contacting Apple, make sure you know the iPhone model and have access to a computer with iTunes in case you need to restore or update. Apple will likely ask for the serial number as well. Be ready to explain what led up to the phone getting stuck in DFU mode and what steps you’ve tried already. This will help expedite the process so Apple can resolve your DFU issue efficiently.