An iPhone 12 stuck in recovery mode can be a frustrating experience. If your iPhone 12 is stuck in recovery mode, you need to follow specific steps to get it back to normal. This problem usually happens during an iOS update or restore process.
Start by pressing the Volume Up button and quickly releasing it. Repeat with the Volume Down button. Then, press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears. If the device doesn’t respond, connecting it to a computer and using iTunes or Finder to restore it is an effective solution.
These steps can help bring your iPhone 12 back to life without losing your data. Keep reading for detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips.
iPhone 12 Stuck in Recovery Mode? Here’s How to Fix It
If your iPhone 12 is stuck on the recovery mode screen (showing a cable pointing to a computer), it usually means iOS failed to start properly. The steps below will help you exit recovery mode and get your phone working again.
Why iPhone 12 Gets Stuck in Recovery Mode
Common causes include:
- Interrupted iOS update or restore
- Failed jailbreak attempt
- Corrupted system files
- Hardware issues (battery, logic board, Face ID flex cable)
- Insufficient storage during an update
1. Force Restart Your iPhone 12 (First Thing to Try)
A force restart often exits recovery mode without data loss.
Steps:
- Quickly press and release Volume Up
- Quickly press and release Volume Down
- Press and hold the Side button
- Release when you see the Apple logo
If the phone boots normally, the problem is resolved.
2. Update iOS Using a Computer (Keeps Your Data)
If the force restart doesn’t work, try updating iOS via a computer.
What you need:
- A Mac (Finder) or Windows PC (iTunes installed)
- A Lightning cable
Steps:
- Connect your iPhone to the computer
- Open Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes
- When prompted, select Update (not Restore)
- Allow the update to complete (this may take 15–30 minutes)
✅ This reinstalls iOS without erasing your data.
3. Restore iPhone Using Recovery Mode (Data Will Be Erased)
If updating fails, restoring is the next option.
⚠️ Warning: This deletes all data on the device.
Steps:
- Keep the iPhone connected to the computer
- Choose Restore when prompted
- Wait for the process to complete
- Set up your iPhone and restore from an iCloud or computer backup
4. Try DFU Mode (Advanced)
DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode can fix deeper software issues.
⚠️ Warning: This will erase your iPhone.
Steps:
- Connect iPhone to a computer
- Quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down
- Press and hold the Side button until the screen goes black
- Immediately press and hold Volume Down while continuing to hold the Side button for 5 seconds
- Release the Side button, keep holding Volume Down for 10 seconds
- Screen stays black → computer detects iPhone in DFU mode
- Restore iOS via Finder or iTunes
5. Check Storage Issues
If the phone entered recovery mode during an update, low storage may be the cause.
Fix:
- After restoring, avoid restoring unnecessary data
- Keep at least 5–10 GB of free storage before future updates
6. Inspect for Hardware Problems
If recovery mode keeps returning, hardware may be the issue.
Common culprits:
- Face ID flex cable damage (very common on iPhone 12)
- Battery failure
- Liquid damage
- Logic board issues
If the phone was recently dropped or repaired, seek professional inspection.
7. Use Third‑Party Repair Tools (Optional)
Some tools claim to exit recovery mode without data loss. Results vary and they’re not guaranteed, but they may help if standard methods fail.
(Use reputable software and proceed at your own risk.)
8. Contact Apple Support or Visit a Repair Center
If none of the above works:
- Contact Apple Support
- Visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider
- Check warranty or AppleCare+ coverage
When to Seek Immediate Repair
- iPhone repeatedly re‑enters recovery mode
- Restore or DFU fails with errors
- Phone overheats or won’t power on
- Device was exposed to water
Final Tip
Always try Force Restart → Update → Restore → DFU, in that order, to minimize data loss.
Key Takeaways
- iPhone 12 can get stuck in recovery mode during updates
- Simple button sequences can help exit recovery mode
- Use a computer to restore if button fixes don’t work
Diagnosing the Issue
When an iPhone 12 is stuck in recovery mode, identifying what’s causing the problem and checking for compatibility are key steps. Understanding the different triggers can help get the device working again.
Understanding Recovery Mode
Recovery mode on an iPhone is a troubleshooting tool. It lets you update or restore the device using iTunes or Finder on a computer. When the device is in this mode, you’ll typically see an icon that suggests connecting to a computer. This can help fix issues like a failed update or persistent software problems. It’s important to know what the recovery mode screen looks like, as it can prevent confusion with other error screens, such as the black screen or a boot loop.
Common Triggers
There are several reasons why an iPhone 12 might get stuck in recovery mode. One trigger can be an interrupted software update. This might occur due to a poor internet connection or low battery during the update process. Another trigger could be corrupted software. If the software fails to install properly, it can force the device into recovery mode. Hardware issues, though less common, can also lead to this problem. The iPhone might have experienced a drop or liquid damage. Checking these potential triggers can help narrow down the cause and lead to a solution.
Compatibility Checks
Before troubleshooting, verify compatibility between the device and the computer. If using a Mac, ensure the latest version of macOS Catalina or later is installed. For a PC, the latest version of iTunes must be installed. Double-check that the iPhone’s model, like the iPhone SE or iPhone 7, is properly recognized by the computer. Ensure all cables and ports are working. This can prevent further issues when trying to update or restore the device. Compatibility plays a crucial role in successfully getting the iPhone out of recovery mode.
