"I have an iPhone 5s, and I was updating it with iTunes, and it was halfway across, and I got error code -1, and now the iPhone is stuck in recovery mode and won't get out. Tried other computers, still dint worked cnt even find a solution online for the error code -1plz help."
- from Apple Community
Many iPhone users encounter iPhone/iTunes error 1 while updating, restoring, or trying to restore their devices using iTunes or Finder. This error interrupts the process and can be frustrating, especially if you are not sure what caused it. In this article, we will explore why iPhone/iTunes error 1 occurs and provide detailed, step-by-step solutions to fix it effectively, ensuring your iPhone returns to normal without data loss.
Before starting the fixes, understanding the causes of the error can help address the issue more effectively. The following are the reasons for iTunes error 1 on iPhone:
Here are seven effective ways to fix iTunes error 1 on iPhone. You can try them one by one.
A faulty USB cable or port is a common cause of iPhone error 1. Even if the cable charges the device, it may not transfer data properly for updates or restoration. To fix this, ensure you're using an Apple-certified cable and connect directly to your computer's main USB port.
If the connection is stable but the error persists, the issue may lie with your computer's environment. Please try connecting on another computer and see if the same issue occurs.
Do you have any antivirus software or firewall running on your computer? These could be causing the iPhone/iTunes error 1 during the iPhone restore process. Third-party tools like these might block downloads to your iPhone, which can lead to issues. Try disabling your antivirus or firewall before restoring or updating your iPhone through iTunes.
The iPhone/iTunes error 1 can sometimes be caused by an outdated version of iTunes. You can resolve this issue by simply updating iTunes.
Update iTunes on a Mac: Open the App Store > Click on "Updates" in the top menu bar > You'll see a list of installed and available updates > If an iTunes update is available, select it.
Update iTunes on Windows: Open iTunes > Click "Help" in the top menu > Select "Check for Updates".
Users can also manually download the IPSW file via iTunes to fully fix the iTunes/iPhone error 1. This may be time-consuming and labor-intensive. The following steps will help you complete the process:
Step 1. Download the IPSW file for your iOS device. Make sure the file matches your exact device model.
Step 2. Connect your iPhone and open iTunes. Go to the "Summary" section, then hold the "Shift" key and click "Update". If you're using a Mac, hold the "Option" (Alt) key (and Command, if required) while clicking "Update".
Step 3. A file browser will appear. Locate and select the downloaded IPSW file, then follow the on-screen instructions to update your iPhone.
If none of the above methods work, it may indicate that the iPhone system has a deep-level malfunction or corruption. In this case, using a professional tool like iOS System Recovery is the safest and most efficient solution. It supports fixing various system issues on iPhone, iPad, and iPod, including iPhone error 1, without causing data loss.
Key features of iOS System Recovery:
How do I fix iPhone/iTunes error 1 without data loss?
01Launch the software on your computer and link your iPhone to the PC with a USB cable. Then choose "More tools" > "iOS System Recovery" under the iPhone repair tools.
02Then the software will automatically detect and display the problem with your iPhone that it has detected. Just click the "Start" button to continue.
03After that, please check and confirm your iPhone information as prompted. If the information is right, just click the "Repair" button to begin fixing the iPhone Error 1 issue. If not, just select the correct information and then click the "Repair" button to start repairing.
The software will download the latest firmware version of your device to fix the iOS system issue after detecting your current iOS version.
If none of the above methods can fix iPhone Error 1, the problem may be related to hardware failure or deep system-level issues that cannot be resolved through software alone. In some cases, the error is caused by a faulty logic board, baseband chip, or internal component, which requires professional diagnosis.
Visiting an official Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider ensures that your iPhone is inspected by trained technicians using official tools and diagnostics.
Although iPhone Error 1 is quite common, it is not an unsolvable problem. In most cases, it is related to the connection method, computer environment, or system components. You can start with basic troubleshooting steps such as changing the data cable, checking iTunes, or disabling the firewall.
If repeated attempts still fail, it may indicate that the system issue is beyond what conventional methods can fix. In this situation, iOS System Recovery can quickly resolve iPhone Error 1 without data loss, making it a highly recommended solution.
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