iPhone Keeps Restarting on Apple Logo: 13 Fixes

If your iPhone keeps restarting and getting stuck on the Apple logo, it usually means the system crashed during startup or the battery can’t deliver stable power. This guide walks you through 13 fixes, from simple restarts to recovery mode, that resolve the issue in most cases without losing data.

What You’ll Need

• A computer (Mac or Windows PC) with the latest version of iTunes or Finder (macOS Catalina or later).
• A USB cable that works with your iPhone.
• Access to Wi-Fi (for updates or restore).
• Optional: a second device to search for help if needed.

Step-by-Step

1. Force restart your iPhone. This is the first thing to try. The method depends on your model:
   • iPhone 8 or later (including SE 2nd gen and newer): Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears, then release.
   • iPhone 7 series: Press and hold the Side and Volume Down buttons together until the Apple logo appears.
   • iPhone 6s and earlier: Press and hold the Home and Side (or Top) buttons together until the Apple logo appears.
2. Charge your iPhone for at least 30 minutes. A depleted battery can cause boot loops. Use a wall charger and a different cable if possible.
3. Connect to a computer and update iOS. If force restart doesn’t work, plug your iPhone into a computer. Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows). If your iPhone is recognized, click “Updateâ€� (not Restore) to reinstall iOS without erasing your data. This often fixes software corruption.
4. Put your iPhone in recovery mode. If the computer doesn’t recognize your iPhone, you’ll need to enter recovery mode manually:
   • Connect your iPhone to the computer, then force restart it while holding the appropriate button (same as step 1, but keep holding until you see the recovery mode screen—a computer icon with a cable).
   • On the computer, you’ll see a dialog offering “Updateâ€� or “Restoreâ€�. Choose “Updateâ€� first. This keeps your data.
5. If Update fails, try Restore. This erases your iPhone and installs the latest iOS. You’ll lose data unless you have a backup. After restore, set up as new or restore from a backup.
6. Check for a faulty app or tweak. If the loop started after installing a specific app, try deleting it (if you can get past the logo). If you’ve jailbroken, restore to stock iOS.
7. Check for physical damage or water exposure. If your iPhone was dropped or got wet, the battery or logic board might be damaged. In that case, you’ll likely need professional repair.
8. Try a different charging cable and adapter. A faulty cable can cause intermittent power that triggers boot loops.
9. Update iOS via a computer if your iPhone is stuck in a loop but still shows the Apple logo. Sometimes the phone will eventually boot after several attempts. Wait 10-15 minutes while it’s plugged in.
10. Use a third-party repair tool (optional). Some tools can exit recovery mode or fix minor system issues without erasing data. Use only reputable ones.
11. Check storage space. If your iPhone is nearly full, it can cause boot issues. If you can boot, free up space by deleting large files or offloading apps.
12. Reset all settings. If you can boot, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. This doesn’t erase your data but resets preferences like Wi-Fi passwords and wallpaper.
13. Contact Apple Support. If none of the above works, there may be a hardware issue. Apple Support can run diagnostics and advise on repair options.

Common Mistakes

• Not waiting long enough. iPhones can take several minutes to boot, especially after an update. Don’t interrupt the process.
• Choosing “Restoreâ€� when you want to keep data. Always try “Updateâ€� first. Restore wipes your iPhone.
• Using a damaged cable. A frayed or non-Apple cable can cause power issues. Use a certified cable.
• Forcing restart too many times. Repeated force restarts can sometimes worsen the loop. Give your iPhone time between attempts.
• Skipping the battery check. A swollen or dying battery is a common cause. If your iPhone feels hot or the screen bulges, stop and seek repair.

Tips

• Back up regularly to iCloud or a computer so you can restore without panic.
• Keep iOS up to date. Software bugs are often fixed in updates.
• Use a surge protector for your charger to avoid power spikes that can corrupt the system.
• If you have a backup, you can try “Restoreâ€� without hesitation. It’s the most reliable fix.
• After a successful boot, check for iOS updates and install them to prevent recurrence.

Troubleshooting

If your iPhone is not recognized by the computer: Try a different USB port, use the original cable, or restart your computer. If it still isn’t recognized, your iPhone may be in a deep recovery loop. Try entering recovery mode manually (step 4) and then update.

If the update fails with an error (e.g., error 4013, 9, or 14): These errors often indicate a hardware issue, but first try a different cable and port, and ensure your computer has the latest iTunes/Finder. If the error persists, contact Apple Support.

If your iPhone turns off after a few minutes of normal use: This could be a battery issue. Check battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health (if you can boot). If it’s below 80%, consider a battery replacement.

If your iPhone gets hot during the loop: Unplug it and let it cool down. Overheating can cause hardware damage. If it continues, seek professional help.

If you’ve tried everything and the loop continues: It’s likely a hardware fault. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store. They have diagnostic tools that can pinpoint the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my data if I update via recovery mode?

No, updating in recovery mode preserves your data. It reinstalls iOS without erasing your files. Only “Restore� erases everything.

How long should I wait on the Apple logo before giving up?

Give it at least 15 minutes. If it’s still stuck after that, move to the next fix.

Can a faulty app cause the boot loop?

Yes, especially if the app runs at startup or has a bug. If you recently installed an app, try deleting it if you can boot into safe mode (if jailbroken) or restore.

What does recovery mode look like?

You’ll see a black screen with a computer icon and a cable. That’s recovery mode.

Is there a way to fix the boot loop without a computer?

You can try force restart and charging, but most fixes require a computer to update or restore iOS.

My iPhone is under warranty. Will Apple fix it for free?

If it’s a software issue, yes. If it’s hardware damage (like water or cracks), it may not be covered. Contact Apple Support to check.

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