Specifications
iPhone 4 Troubleshooting — General Troubleshooting 31
2012-02-21
Restore
A restore completely erases the device and reinstalls a fresh copy of iOS.
WARNING: This will delete all user data and settings on the device.
Key Points
• A restore erases all user content, settings, and iOS les, and then reinstalls only iOS.
• A restore is time-consuming, especially if you have to download the restore package.
• If iTunes displays an alert with an error code, see Apple Support articles TS3694: iTunes:
Specic update-and-restore error messages and advanced troubleshooting and
TS1275: iOS: Resolving update and restore alert messages before continuing.
• When the restore is complete, test the device before restoring a backup or syncing content.
• Note: Do not set up as a new device, as this can erase previous backups. Copy or rename
the backup folder before proceeding; location of this folder is listed in Apple Support article
HT1414: iTunes: Backing up, updating, and restoring iOS software.
Procedure:
1. Connect device to a computer running the latest version of iTunes.
2. In the left column under Devices, click on the device name, then go to the Summary panel
and click the Restore button.
Recovery Mode Restore
If iTunes cannot detect the device, or a specic restore error appears, check cable connections.
If the issue persists, consider forcing the device into recovery mode.
WARNING: This will delete all user data and settings on the device.
If you cannot restore a device, even when using recovery mode, service or replacement may be
the appropriate option.
Key Points
• Recovery mode loads only the rmware drivers necessary for iTunes to recognize the device.
• To force recovery mode, power o the device, and then connect it to a USB port on the
computer while holding down the Home button.
• If the device does not power o, try a Reset to power it o.
• If iTunes displays an alert with an error code, see Apple Support articles TS3694: iTunes:
Specic update-and-restore error messages and advanced troubleshooting and
TS1275: iOS: Resolving update and restore alert messages.
Note: In certain situations, an device will automatically go into recovery mode after an update
or restore issue. If the device is already in recovery mode, attempt to restore using iTunes.