How to Fix iPhone Stuck on Connect to iTunes? Complete Fix Guide 2026

"My iPhone is getting stuck on the 'Connect to iTunes' screen, as this device seems to be unable to connect to iTunes, which prevents it from being activated. I believe this issue can occur due to various reasons, such as software updates, physical damage, or complications with hard resets. I'm hopeful that the forum community can assist me with their expertise and advice."

- from Apple Community

When you're using your iPhone normally but suddenly find the device stuck on the "Connect to iTunes" screen, it usually shows a cable pointing to a computer or the iTunes icon, and no matter what you do, you can't enter the system. This situation can confuse and stress many users, making them worry about whether the device is damaged or if data might be lost. In fact, iPhone stuck on Connect to iTunes screen is not uncommon, and it's often related to system updates, failed restores, or software issues. This article will systematically introduce various effective solutions to help you safely exit the "Connect to iTunes" screen.

Part 1. Why Is iPhone Stuck on Connect to iTunes Screen?

Before starting the repair, it's important to understand the cause of the issue. When an iPhone is stuck on the Connect to iTunes screen, it is usually related to the following situations:

• Interruption During iOS Update or Downgrade: If there is a network interruption, low battery, or forced restart during an iOS update, upgrade, or downgrade process, the system may fail to start properly, leading to the "Connect to iTunes" state.
• System Restore Failure: When using iTunes/Finder to restore an iPhone, if an error occurs during the process (such as an unknown error or incomplete firmware download), the device may get stuck on this screen.
• Corrupted System Files: Missing or corrupted iOS system files (such as from a failed jailbreak or improper use of third-party tools) can also prevent the system from loading.
• iTunes or Computer Issues: Outdated versions of iTunes, unstable USB connections, or system errors on the computer can trigger this problem during the connection process.

Part 2. How to Fix iPhone Stuck on Connect to iTunes Screen?

Below are 6 common and effective repair methods. You can try them one by one based on your situation.

Fix 1. Force Restart iPhone

A force restart is the simplest way to resolve temporary system glitches. If your iPhone is stuck on "Connect to iTunes" due to a minor crash, this method may immediately fix the problem without affecting your data.

Steps to force restart iPhone:

iPhone 8 and later:

• Quickly press and release "Volume Up".
• Quickly press and release "Volume Down".
• Press and hold the "Power" button.
• Release when the Apple logo appears.

iPhone 7 / 7 Plus: Press and hold "Power" + "Volume Down" until the Apple logo appears.

iPhone 6s and earlier: Press and hold "Power" + "Home" until the Apple logo appears.

If the iPhone restarts normally, the issue is resolved. If not, proceed to the next solution.

Fix 2. Reinstall iOS via iTunes

If a force restart doesn't work, the next step is to reinstall iOS. This is one of the repair methods recommended by Apple, which allows you to reinstall iOS without deleting your data.

Here is how to fix the iPhone stuck on Connect to iTunes screen and won't restore:

Step 1. Ensure that you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer, then open it.

Step 2. Connect your iPhone to the computer using the USB cable that came with your device.

Step 3. iTunes will detect your iPhone in recovery mode and offer two options: "Restore" or "Update".

Step 4. Select "Update" to reinstall iOS on your iPhone without erasing your data.

Fix 3. Restore iPhone via iTunes

To fix an old iPhone stuck on the "Connect to iTunes" screen, you can also perform a full restore using iTunes to resolve any iOS issues. However, this will erase all content and data on your iPhone, so be sure to back up your data before attempting a restore.

Here is how to do it:

Step 1. Open iTunes and connect your iPhone.

Step 2. When the recovery prompt appears, select "Restore".

Step 3. iTunes will download the firmware and reinstall iOS.

Step 4. After completion, set up your iPhone.

Step 5. Restore data from iCloud or iTunes backup if available.

Fix 4. Put the iPhone into DFU Mode

If the iPhone is still stuck on "Connect to iTunes", DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode can help. This mode bypasses iOS entirely and allows deeper system repair. DFU Mode is effective but more complex and will erase data.

Here are the steps:

Step 1. Open iTunes and connect your iPhone to your PC.

Step 2. Depending on your iPhone model, follow the instructions below to enter DFU mode:

• For iPhone 6 or earlier: Press and hold the "Home" button and the "Side" button simultaneously for 8-10 seconds, then release the "Side" button. Continue holding the "Home" button until iTunes detects your device in recovery mode. The screen should remain black.
• For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the "Volume Down" button and the "Side" button for 8-10 seconds. Release the "Side" button, but keep holding the "Volume Down" button for at least 5 seconds. The screen should be black, and iTunes will display a pop-up confirming the successful entry into DFU mode.
• For iPhone 8 and later: Quickly press the "Volume Up" button, then the "Volume Down" button. Press and hold the "Side" button until the screen goes black. Once it's black, press and hold both the "Volume Down" and "Side" buttons for 5 seconds. After 5 seconds, release the "Side" button but continue holding the "Volume Down" button for at least 5 more seconds. Your iPhone should remain black, and iTunes will display a notification confirming DFU mode.

Step 3. Once in DFU mode, click on "Restore iPhone". This will erase your iPhone and begin a fresh installation of iOS. Your iPhone will restart once the restoration process is complete.

Fix 5. Using iOS System Recovery

If you want a simpler and safer solution, especially if you wish to fix an iPhone stuck on "Connect to iTunes" without data loss, a professional iPhone repair tool is highly recommended. iOS System Recovery is designed to fix various iOS system issues, including recovery mode loops, boot failures, and system crashes.

Main features of iOS System Recovery:

• Fix iPhone stuck on Connect to iTunes without losing data.
• Restore your iOS devices to normal on both Windows and Mac.
• Fix a wide variety of iOS system issues, including iPhone stuck on the Apple logo, stuck in headphone mode, water damage, screen issues (such as black, red, blue, or white screens of death), freezing, or being disabled after multiple failed unlock attempts.
• Choose between Standard Mode (no data loss) and Advanced Mode for more in-depth repairs.
• Easily upgrade or downgrade your iOS to a supported version.
• Enjoy a high success rate with no data loss.
• Fully compatible with the latest iPhone 17 series and iOS 26.

Free Download for PC

 

Free Download for Mac

Here is how to fix an iPhone stuck on "Connect to iTunes" using iOS System Recovery:

Fix 6. Ask Apple Support

If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, a hardware problem might be causing your iPhone to be stuck on the "Connect to iTunes" screen. In this case, we recommend scheduling an appointment with Apple to have the hardware checked at an Apple Store.

Part 3. How to Avoid iPhone Stuck on Connect to iTunes Again?

To prevent encountering an iPhone stuck on "Connect to iTunes" in the future, follow these best practices:

* Ensure sufficient battery before updating the system.

* Use a stable network for iOS updates.

* Use original or certified cables.

* Avoid forcibly interrupting updates or restores midway.

* Regularly back up iPhone data.

* Be cautious when jailbreaking or modifying the system.

Summary

While the iPhone stuck on Connect to iTunes issue is common, it's not difficult to resolve. From force restarting to iTunes recovery, to DFU mode and professional tools, each method addresses different levels of system problems. If you want a higher success rate, easier operation, and want to minimize data loss, iOS System Recovery is a highly recommended solution.

Related Articles:

iPhone in Recovery Mode Not Recognized by iTunes? - 8 Quick Fixes

How to Fix iTunes Could Not Connect to This iPhone? (8 Effective Solutions)

How to Fix iTunes/iPhone Stuck on Preparing iPhone for Restore?

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