iPhone Stuck in DFU Mode? Try These 5 Fixes

If you've put your iPhone in DFU mode while trying to downgrade or jailbreak iOS, but your device is stuck in DFU mode for an unusually long time, you're not alone. In this guide, we'll show you how to fix an iPhone that is stuck in DFU mode.

When Should You Use DFU Mode?

With new software updates, Apple often prevents users from downgrading to older versions of iOS. This is where DFU mode comes into play, allowing you to downgrade to previous versions of iOS, fix issues with your device, or unlock your iPhone. Many Apple users also use DFU mode to jailbreak their devices.

For example, if your iPhone is currently running a new version of iOS and you want to downgrade or jailbreak it, entering DFU mode is the right choice. However, you must ensure that your device is compatible and that you have the necessary software files to revert to a previous version of iOS.

It's important to note that DFU mode is different from Recovery mode. While Recovery mode prevents downgrading to an older iOS version, it does allow users to install updates or restore the device to the current firmware. Like DFU mode, Recovery mode can also be useful when jailbreaking your iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch.

Force Restart Your iPhone to Exit DFU Mode

In Recovery mode, your iPhone will automatically exit after 15 minutes. However, you must manually exit DFU mode by force restarting your device. Here's how to do it:

iPhone 6 or Earlier: Press and hold both the Sleep/Wake and Home buttons simultaneously. Release these buttons when the Apple logo appears on the screen.

iPhone 7 & 7 Plus: Press the Volume Down and Sleep/Wake buttons together at the same time and wait for the device to reactivate.

iPhone 8 or Newer: First, press the Volume Up button and release it quickly. Next, press the Volume Down button and release it quickly. Finally, press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo on the screen.

Restore Your iPhone in DFU Mode Using iTunes or Finder

If force restarting doesn't work, you can also try restoring your iPhone in DFU mode using Finder or iTunes to get it out of DFU mode. Typically, when your iPhone successfully enters DFU mode and is connected to your computer, Finder or iTunes will show a message saying it has detected an iPhone in recovery mode.

Keep in mind that this process will erase all data on your iPhone, so be sure to have a recent backup before you continue. Here are the steps to restore your iPhone in DFU mode from your computer:

Step 1. In Finder or iTunes, click "OK," then the "Restore iPhone" button. This will erase all data and settings on your iPhone and install the latest version of iOS.

Step 2. Wait for the process to finish.

Step 3. Once the restore is complete, you can set up your iPhone as new or restore it from a backup.

Fix an iPhone Stuck in DFU Mode with System Recovery Tool

If you've tried the steps above and your device remains stuck, you might want to try using a specialized tool called TinyFix iOS System Recovery. TinyFix is a comprehensive iOS system repair tool designed to address various issues, such as an iPhone stuck in a reboot loop, a frozen screen, a black screen, or an iOS update that won't complete.

It provides easy-to-follow guidelines to help you resolve these issues without losing any important data.

Here's how to use TinyFix to fix your iPhone stuck in DFU mode: 

Step 1. First, download the TinyFix program on your computer and install it.

Step 2. Open the program and click on the 'Fix Now' button in the 'iOS System Repair' section.

Step 3. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a lightning cable. In the next window, select the mode you wish to use. The Standard Repair option can solve the DFU mode issue without erasing any data from your device.

Step 4. The program will prompt you to choose a firmware file on your computer. TinyFix is designed to automatically detect the iOS version and provide the appropriate firmware for your device. Wait for the program to download the necessary package. 

Step 5. Once the firmware download is complete, you can begin the device repair process. This may take some time, so be patient.

One of the best aspects of using TinyFix is that it does not erase your data during the repair process. Your information remains safe while the issues are resolved.

Contact Apple for Further Assistance

If your iPhone is still stuck in DFU mode after trying everything above, it may be time to seek help from Apple support. You can visit an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider for assistance with your device.

If your iPhone is still under warranty, Apple should cover the repair at no cost, provided it hasn't suffered any other damage, such as liquid damage.

Exit DFU Mode on a Jailbroken iPhone

If you have a jailbroken iPhone, your warranty is likely void. This means you can't take it to an Apple Service Center for repairs. However, there are alternative methods for resolving issues when your device is stuck in DFU mode and unable to connect to iTunes.

You can utilize an iOS system repair tool like TinyFix to fix problems, even if the device is jailbroken. This tool can help you resolve various issues and get your device back to normal quickly.

Wrap Up

DFU Mode and Recovery Mode are both powerful methods for addressing most issues on your Apple devices, but they come with some drawbacks. If your device enters DFU mode and becomes stuck, we hope this guide helps you resolve the issue.

Always remember to back up your data to avoid losing important information in such situations. If all else fails, TinyFix can quickly solve your problems and restore your device to normal functioning.