Symptoms
- Screen shows a cable-to-computer image and won't proceed
- Phone won't respond to normal button presses
- Connected computer shows 'recovery mode' or 'DFU mode' detected
- Screen is black but the computer still detects the device
Likely causes
- CommonIncorrect button combination used to exit the modeEach iPhone model has a specific sequence to exit these modes, and it's easy to get wrong.
- CommonComputer software (Finder/iTunes) has a pending update or restore taskThe phone may be waiting for the computer to complete an action before it can exit the mode.
- PossibleCable or port issue interrupting the connectionA faulty cable can cause the phone to appear stuck since the computer can't fully communicate with it.
- PossibleAn update or restore was intentionally started and is just still in progressRestores can take significant time and simply look stuck.
What to do
- Check the connected computer for an update or restore prompt and complete it if one is waiting.
- If nothing is happening on the computer, look up the exact button sequence to exit recovery/DFU mode for your specific iPhone model.
- Try a different, known-good cable and USB port.
- Wait patiently if a restore is genuinely in progress, since large restores can take 20+ minutes.
- Force restart the phone using its standard force-restart combination once disconnected.
- If the phone still won't exit the mode, attempt an official restore through the connected computer's software.
- If restore fails or the phone won't be recognized by the computer, this indicates a hardware issue.
Tools and parts
- Computer with cable
When to call a pro
If a restore via computer doesn't complete or the phone isn't recognized at all, an authorized repair shop can diagnose a possible hardware fault.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.