How to Exit DFU Mode on iPhone: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode is a special iOS state used for low-level firmware updates or restores. Sometimes a device can get "stuck" in this mode due to a failure, and then it won't load the operating system, displaying only a black screen or an iTunes/Finder icon. Exiting DFU is necessary to return an iPhone or iPad to a working state. This guide describes simple methods to exit DFU mode for all iOS models without data loss (if the data hasn't already been erased).

Requirements / Preparation

Before you begin, ensure that:

• You have a device (iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch) stuck in DFU mode.
• You know the device model (e.g., iPhone 12, iPhone SE 2nd generation, iPad Pro).
• The device has sufficient battery charge (at least 20% is recommended) or is connected to a charger.
• Data on the device will not be affected by exiting DFU itself, but if DFU was triggered by a restore process, data may have been lost previously.
• No computer or cables are required to exit—actions are performed solely on the device itself.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Identify Your iPhone or iPad Model

Button combinations differ depending on the device generation. Categorize your device into one of three groups:

• iPhone 8, iPhone SE (2nd generation), and newer (including iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) and iPads without a Home button (with Face ID or Touch ID in the power button).
• iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
• iPhone 6s, iPhone 6, iPhone SE (1st generation), and all older models (with a Home button), as well as iPads with a Home button.

If you're unsure, check the model in Settings (Settings → General → About) or on the back of the device.

Step 2: Perform the Button Combination for Your Model

For iPhone 8 and newer / iPad without a Home button:

1. Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
2. Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
3. Hold the Side button (power button) until the Apple logo appears (about 10-15 seconds).
   • Do not release the button, even if you see an iTunes icon or a black screen.

For iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus:

1. Hold both the Volume Down button and the Side button simultaneously.
2. Continue holding until the Apple logo appears (about 10-15 seconds).

For iPhone 6s and older / iPad with a Home button:

1. Hold both the Home button and the Power button (or Top button) simultaneously.
2. Continue holding until the Apple logo appears (about 10-15 seconds).

💡 Tip: If the combination didn't work on the first try, ensure you are pressing the buttons quickly (for iPhone 8+ models) and holding them long enough. Try again.

Step 3: Wait for the Reboot

Once the Apple logo appears, the device will begin a normal iOS boot. This process can take anywhere from 30 seconds to 2 minutes depending on the model. Do not interrupt the process or press any buttons.

Step 4: Check Functionality

When the device has booted, unlock it (if a passcode was set). Verify that:

• The home screen or lock screen is displayed.
• All functions (calls, apps, Wi-Fi) work normally.
• The device does not re-enter DFU mode upon reboot.

If the issue persists (the device enters DFU again), proceed to the "Potential Issues" section.

Verifying the Result

A successful exit from DFU mode is confirmed by:

• The Apple logo appearing instead of a black screen or iTunes/Finder icon.
• iOS fully booting to the home screen.
• The ability to use the device as usual (opening apps, making calls, etc.).
• No message prompting connection to iTunes on the next reboot.

If the device booted but is unstable (e.g., frequent reboots), you may need to restore iOS via iTunes/Finder.

Potential Issues

Device does not respond to the button combination

• Cause: Buttons are pressed incorrectly (not quickly enough for iPhone 8+ models) or not held long enough.
• Solution: Repeat Step 2, following the instructions for your model precisely. Ensure the physical buttons are functional (not stuck). If the problem persists, try connecting the device to a computer with iTunes/Finder and perform a restore.

Device re-enters DFU mode after exiting

• Cause: A critical iOS firmware error or hardware malfunction (e.g., damaged power button).
• Solution: Perform a full iOS restore via iTunes (on Mac) or Finder (on Mac with macOS Catalina or newer) / iTunes (on Windows). This will reinstall iOS but may erase data. If restoring doesn't help, contact an Apple service center.

Buttons are physically damaged or unresponsive

• Cause: Physical damage (drop, sticking).
• Solution: If the buttons do not respond, exiting DFU via hardware buttons is impossible. Try software methods (e.g., through iTunes when connected to a computer, by clicking "Restore"). As a last resort, contact a service center.

iTunes/Finder icon remains on the screen after an exit attempt

• Cause: The device is still in Recovery Mode, not DFU, or the process wasn't completed.
• Solution: Ensure you used the correct combination for DFU (which differs from Recovery Mode). If unsure, disconnect the device from the computer and repeat Step 2. If the issue isn't resolved, perform a restore via iTunes/Finder.