How to Fix the Apple Logo Boot Loop on iPhones and iPads

An iPhone or iPad stuck on the Apple logo is one of the most frustrating issues a user can face. Whether it happened after an iOS update or a hardware repair, the good news is: it can often be fixed.

This guide covers everything from basic software tricks to advanced hardware troubleshooting — perfect for everyday users and repair techs alike.

Software Fixes for Apple Logo Boot Loop

✅ 1. Force Restart (Quickest First Step)

  • iPhone 8 or newer: Press Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side Button until the Apple logo appears.
  • iPhone 7 / 7 Plus: Hold Volume Down + Power Button until the Apple logo appears.
  • iPhone 6s or earlier: Hold Home + Power Button together until the Apple logo appears.

✅ 2. Update via Recovery Mode (No Data Loss)

This reinstalls iOS while keeping your data intact.

  1. Enter Recovery Mode:
    • iPhone 8 and newer: Volume Up → Volume Down → hold Side Button until Recovery Mode screen appears.
    • iPhone 7: Hold Volume Down + Power.
    • iPhone 6s and older: Hold Home + Power.
  2. Connect to iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave or earlier) or Finder (macOS Catalina+).
  3. When prompted, select Update (not Restore).

✅ 3. Restore via Recovery or DFU Mode (Data Will Be Erased)

If the update fails or Recovery Mode doesn’t work:

  • Option A: Restore via Recovery Mode by selecting Restore when prompted.
  • Option B: Enter DFU Mode for a complete restore. This method keeps the screen black and bypasses iOS startup checks. (Contact us for model-specific DFU steps.)

 Common Causes of Boot Loops

  • Failed iOS update or jailbreak
  • Corrupted system files
  • Water damage
  • Battery or hardware mismatch
  • Faulty NAND/EEPROM or serial mismatch from third-party repair

 Hardware Repair Tips (For Technicians & Shops)

 1. Battery Integrity

After replacing the battery, reprogram the original serial using tools like JC V1S / V1SE / QianLi iCopy. A mismatched battery can trigger integrity check failures and boot loops.

Always inspect the flex and connector area for damage or corrosion.

 2. Proximity Sensor Issue

A faulty proximity sensor can cause a boot loop or black screen after the Apple logo. Disconnect the front sensor flex and test. If it boots, replace the flex with a working original or reprogrammed one.

 3. Screen Serial Verification

If the boot loop started after a screen replacement, use JC or QianLi tools to restore original screen data. A mismatch in screen EEPROM or missing data can cause iOS to halt at the Apple logo.

4. Logic Board-Level Repair

  • Inspect NAND, EEPROM, and Tristar ICs for damage.
  • Use a thermal camera or multimeter to check for shorts or unusual heat near PMIC or CPU.
  • Common failure points: NAND pads, missing components, or long screw damage.

 5. Eliminate Faulty Parts Before Rework

  • Test with a known-good screen and battery.
  • Disconnect non-critical flexes (Face ID, front camera, proximity sensor) to isolate the issue.

 

✅ Summary

  • Start with a force restart.
  • Use Recovery Mode to update without losing data.
  • If needed, restore using DFU mode.
  • Techs should verify serial data and inspect for hardware faults.

Need help with JC or QianLi programmers? Contact us for setup support, training, or wholesale tools for iPhone logic board and part-level repair.