It can be frustrating when an iPhone unexpectedly displays a computer and charger icon. This icon, along with a message to visit support.apple.com/iphone/restore, indicates the iPhone is in recovery mode and needs to be connected to a computer with iTunes or Finder to be restored.
There are several potential causes for an iPhone entering recovery mode without being connected to a computer. This article will examine the main reasons an iPhone may display the computer and charger restore screen, troubleshooting tips to exit recovery mode, and when it’s necessary to perform a full restore via computer.
Possible Causes
One of the most common reasons an iPhone may display the computer and charger icon is due to malware or a virus. Malicious software can alter system files and change interface behaviors like status icons. According to discussions on the Apple Support Communities forum, some users faced this issue after visiting unsafe websites or downloading untrusted apps (source).
Jailbreaking an iPhone could also lead to the computer and charger icon appearing. Jailbreaking removes software restrictions and allows root access to the operating system. However, this leaves the device more vulnerable to hacked files changing status bar icons (source).
In some cases, the anomalous icon is caused by an iOS software bug. Bugs in the operating system code may inadvertently change interface elements like status bar icons. Users have reported this after updating to new iOS versions before the bugs were patched (source).
Finally, a hardware issue like a faulty Lightning port or damaged charging circuitry can trigger the computer and charger icon. Hardware problems can confuse the iPhone into thinking it’s connected to a computer when it’s not.
Malware
Malware is malicious software that can infect iPhones and cause issues like displaying the computer and charger icon. Malware typically gets installed when users visit compromised websites, click on malicious links or attachments, or download apps from untrusted sources (1).
Once installed, the malware can gain access to the iPhone’s system files and processes. It may change settings, install additional harmful programs, or monitor user activity without consent. Some signs of malware infection include the computer and charger icons, sluggish performance, abnormal battery drain, unwanted popups, and apps crashing frequently (2).
To remove malware, users can install and run a trusted antivirus app, reset network settings, or perform a factory reset as a last resort. Avoiding suspicious links, restricting app installations, and using strong passwords can help prevent malware infections going forward (3). If the issues persist, users may need to consult with a technician to inspect the device and ensure all malware has been fully removed.
Jailbreaking
Jailbreaking an iPhone involves modifying the iPhone’s operating system to remove restrictions imposed by Apple. This allows users to install apps outside the App Store and customize the device beyond what is officially permitted (Source: https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/definitions/what-is-jailbreaking).
While some users jailbreak to customize their devices, it comes with significant risks. Jailbreaking voids the device’s warranty and can lead to instability, crashes, and security vulnerabilities. By circumventing Apple’s safeguards, jailbreaking leaves devices more susceptible to malware attacks (Source: https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253637135).
Additionally, jailbreaking is technically illegal under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. However, Apple has not typically taken legal action against individual users who jailbreak. The legality remains somewhat murky, but jailbreaking does violate Apple’s terms of service.
In summary, jailbreaking gives users more control over their devices but with substantial risks involved. While Apple does not recommend it, jailbreaking itself does not directly cause issues like the computer and charger icon.
Software Bug
Sometimes the computer and charger icon can appear due to a bug or glitch in the iOS software (Apple Support Thread). As Apple frequently releases new versions of iOS, there is potential for new bugs and issues to arise. Displaying the computer/charger screen could be the result of a software error or incompatibility.
For example, after updating to iOS 15 some users have reported the computer/charger icon appearing even when their iPhone is charged (Apple Support Thread). The new iOS update may have a glitch that causes this screen to incorrectly display.
Trying standard troubleshooting steps like force restarting the iPhone may help clear out a temporary software glitch. But if the issue persists after an iOS update, it likely requires Apple to release a patch in a future iOS version to fully resolve the bug.
Hardware Issue
Hardware issues like a faulty battery or damaged charging port can also cause an iPhone to display the computer and charger icon even when unplugged (Source). Over time, the battery’s capacity diminishes and it may no longer hold a charge properly. This can trigger the iPhone to wrongly display the charging screen. Additionally, debris buildup in the Lightning port can affect the connection between the cable and port, leading to intermittent charging problems. A damaged charging port is another hardware defect that prevents the iPhone from charging normally. In these cases, the iPhone essentially thinks it’s still plugged into a computer when it’s not, resulting in the persistent computer and charger icon.
Fixes
If your iPhone is showing the computer and charger icons, there are a few fixes you can try before taking it to an Apple Store or service provider:
First, try rebooting your iPhone by holding down the power and home buttons for 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears. This will restart your device and clear out any temporary software glitches (Source).
You can also try force restarting your iPhone if a normal reboot doesn’t work. To do this, quickly press and release the volume up button, then quickly press and release the volume down button, then press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. This will hard reset your device.
Updating your iPhone’s iOS software can also help fix software bugs causing the computer and charger icons. Connect your iPhone to WiFi and go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install the latest iOS version.
As a last resort before seeking professional help, you can try resetting your iPhone’s settings. Go to Settings > General > Reset and choose “Reset All Settings” to restore your device to factory settings without erasing data. This preserves your data while clearing out any problematic settings.
If none of these DIY troubleshooting steps fix the issue, it’s best to take your iPhone to an Apple Store or authorized service provider for assistance. They can diagnose any underlying hardware issues causing the problem.
Prevention
There are a few tips to help prevent the computer and charger icon issue from happening again on your iPhone:
Keep your iPhone’s software up to date by installing the latest iOS updates. Staying current on iOS versions helps fix bugs and patch security vulnerabilities that could lead to malware. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for and install available updates.
Avoid unauthorized modifications to your iPhone like jailbreaking. Jailbreaking makes your iPhone more vulnerable to malware infections that can cause issues like the computer and charger icons. If you choose to jailbreak, use caution and only install apps from trusted sources.
Only install apps on your iPhone from the official Apple App Store. Apps from untrusted third-party app stores are more likely to contain malware. Stick to the App Store for a safer experience.
Use security features like Face ID or a passcode to lock your iPhone when not in use. This prevents unauthorized access that could lead to malware or unintended configuration changes.
Install reliable security software from the App Store and keep it up to date. Security apps can scan for and remove potential malware or adware that may have slipped past Apple’s review process.
Practice safe browsing habits and avoid suspicious websites that could host malware. Stick to reputable, known websites to lower your risk.
When to Seek Help
If you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps like cleaning the charging port, using a different cable, restarting your iPhone, and updating iOS without resolving the issue, it’s a good idea to seek assistance from Apple or an authorized repair shop.1 The computer and charger icon likely indicates a hardware problem that requires professional repair.
Specifically, you should consider taking your iPhone to Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider if the computer and charger icon persists after trying a new Lightning cable and charger. This indicates an issue with the iPhone itself rather than the accessories. Additionally, if your iPhone won’t turn on at all even when plugged into power, that is a sign of serious hardware failure that necessitates professional repair.
Seeking help promptly can not only get your iPhone functioning again, but may also prevent further damage. Leaving hardware issues unchecked can sometimes lead to more extensive problems down the line. Getting a diagnosis and repair from the experts at Apple or an authorized servicer is recommended when basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the computer and charger icon appearing.
Conclusion
In summary, an iPhone showing a computer and charger icon can indicate different issues like malware, jailbreaking, software bugs, or hardware problems. To resolve it, try restarting the phone, updating iOS, removing suspicious apps, restoring the phone, or taking it to Apple support if hardware damage is suspected. The key solutions are to keep iOS and apps updated, avoid jailbreaking, install antivirus software, and handle the phone with care to prevent hardware issues. If the icon persists after trying fixes, seek professional help to diagnose and repair any underlying problem.