Data Backup and Recovery

What To Do When IPhone Says Attempting Data Recovery

Has your iPhone ever suddenly displayed the dreaded message "Attempting Data Recovery"? It's a situation that can strike fear into the hearts of even the most experienced iPhone users. But fear not, because there are steps you can take to address this issue and recover your precious data. Let's explore what to do when your iPhone says attempting data recovery.

When faced with the daunting message of "Attempting Data Recovery," it's important to understand a few key aspects. This error usually occurs when your iPhone is trying to recover data from a recent backup or when the device is experiencing problems during the data recovery process. To tackle this issue, start by ensuring your iPhone has a stable and strong internet connection, as this is crucial for successful data recovery. Additionally, you can try force restarting your iPhone or updating the iOS software to resolve any potential software glitches. With these steps in mind, you'll be well-equipped to handle the challenges posed by your iPhone attempting data recovery.



What To Do When IPhone Says Attempting Data Recovery

Understanding the Issue: 'Attempting Data Recovery' on iPhone

When your iPhone displays the message 'Attempting Data Recovery,' it means that your device is in the process of recovering data from a software or hardware issue. This is typically seen on iPhones running iOS 14 or later.

The 'Attempting Data Recovery' message can appear after a software update, a failed update attempt, a sudden shutdown, or a hardware malfunction. It indicates that your iPhone has encountered an undocumented error and is trying to recover the data on its own before resuming normal operations.

While it may be tempting to panic when faced with this message, it's essential to remain calm and follow the appropriate steps to resolve the issue. In this article, we'll discuss what you can do when your iPhone says 'Attempting Data Recovery' to help you regain access to your device and prevent any potential data loss.

Please note that the solutions provided in this article are general troubleshooting steps and may not resolve all cases of 'Attempting Data Recovery' on an iPhone. If you're facing persistent issues or your data is not recoverable, it's recommended to seek professional assistance from an authorized Apple service center or an experienced technician.

1. Force Restart your iPhone

A force restart can help resolve temporary software glitches that may have caused your iPhone to enter 'Attempting Data Recovery' mode. Here's how you can force restart different iPhone models:

Force Restart on iPhone 8 or Later

  • Press and release the volume up button.
  • Press and release the volume down button.
  • Press and hold the side button (power button) until the Apple logo appears.

Force Restart on iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus

  • Press and hold the volume down button.
  • Press and hold the side button (power button) until the Apple logo appears.

Force Restart on iPhone 6s and Earlier

  • Press and hold the home button (on the front of the device) along with the side button (power button) until the Apple logo appears.

After the force restart, check if your iPhone successfully boots up without displaying the 'Attempting Data Recovery' message. If the issue persists, proceed to the next step.

2. Update or Restore iPhone using iTunes (or Finder)

If your iPhone is stuck on 'Attempting Data Recovery,' it's possible that a corrupted update file is causing the issue. Updating or restoring your iPhone using iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later) can help resolve this:

First, make sure you have the latest version of iTunes (or Finder) installed on your computer. Connect your iPhone to the computer with a Lightning cable and follow these steps:

Update iPhone using iTunes (or Finder)

  • Launch iTunes (or Finder) on your computer.
  • Click on the device icon when it appears in iTunes (or Finder).
  • In the Summary tab, click on 'Check for Update.'
  • If an update is available, click on 'Download and Update' to install it.

Restore iPhone using iTunes (or Finder)

  • Launch iTunes (or Finder) on your computer.
  • Click on the device icon when it appears in iTunes (or Finder).
  • In the Summary tab, click on 'Restore iPhone.'
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process.

Updating or restoring your iPhone through iTunes (or Finder) can fix any potential software issues that may have caused the 'Attempting Data Recovery' message. If the issue persists, proceed to the next step.

3. Use Recovery Mode to Restore iPhone

If your iPhone continues to display the 'Attempting Data Recovery' message, you can try using recovery mode to restore your device to factory settings. This process erases all the data on your iPhone, so it's essential to have a recent backup before proceeding. Follow these steps:

Enter Recovery Mode

  • Connect your iPhone to your computer using a Lightning cable.
  • Launch iTunes (or Finder) on your computer.
  • While your iPhone is connected, force restart it:
    • On iPhone 8 or later: Press and quickly release the volume up button, press and quickly release the volume down button, then press and hold the side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
    • On iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus: Press and hold the volume down button along with the side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
    • On iPhone 6s and earlier: Press and hold the home button along with the side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
  • A message will appear on iTunes (or Finder) saying that it has detected an iPhone in recovery mode. Click on 'OK.'

Restore iPhone

Note: Restoring your iPhone using recovery mode erases all the data on the device. Make sure you have a recent backup to restore your data later.

  • In iTunes (or Finder), select the 'Restore' option for your device.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process.

Restoring your iPhone in recovery mode reinstalls the latest iOS version and removes any software-related issues that may have caused the 'Attempting Data Recovery' message. If the issue still persists, move on to the next step.

4. Contact Apple Support or Visit an Authorized Service Center

If none of the above steps have resolved the 'Attempting Data Recovery' issue on your iPhone, it's recommended to seek professional assistance. Contact Apple Support or visit an authorized Apple service center to have your device assessed by a trained technician.

Apple's support team can guide you through additional troubleshooting steps or advise you on the best course of action based on your specific situation. They have access to specialized diagnostic tools and resources that can help identify and resolve the underlying cause of the issue.

Remember to backup your iPhone before visiting a service center to prevent any potential data loss during the repair process.

Preventing 'Attempting Data Recovery' on iPhone

While encountering the 'Attempting Data Recovery' message can be stressful, taking preventive measures can minimize the risk of facing such issues in the future. Here are some tips to help you prevent 'Attempting Data Recovery' on your iPhone:

Regularly Update iOS

Keeping your iPhone's operating system up to date is crucial in preventing software-related issues that can lead to 'Attempting Data Recovery.' Apple releases regular iOS updates that include bug fixes, security enhancements, and improved stability. Make sure to check for and install the latest updates for your iPhone.

Backup your iPhone Regularly

Regularly backing up your iPhone ensures that even if you encounter an issue like 'Attempting Data Recovery,' your data remains safe and accessible. Use iCloud or iTunes (or Finder) to create backups of your iPhone's data, including photos, contacts, messages, and app data. Enable automatic backups for added convenience.

Avoid Force Shutting Down your iPhone

Force shutting down your iPhone by holding down the side button and volume buttons simultaneously should only be used as a last resort or when necessary. Frequent force shut downs can potentially corrupt data and trigger recovery processes like 'Attempting Data Recovery.'

Avoid Interrupting Software Updates

When your iPhone is in the middle of a software update, it's essential to allow the process to complete without interruptions. Interruptions, such as disconnecting the device or force restarting it, can lead to incomplete updates and trigger recovery processes.

Use Genuine Accessories

Using genuine Apple accessories, including Lightning cables and chargers, can help prevent hardware-related issues that may trigger 'Attempting Data Recovery.' Non-certified accessories can sometimes cause power fluctuations or damage to the device, leading to potential issues.

In conclusion, encountering the 'Attempting Data Recovery' message on your iPhone can be worrisome, but there are steps you can take to resolve the issue. Start by force restarting your device, updating or restoring it using iTunes (or Finder), or using recovery mode if necessary. If the problem persists, it's best to seek professional assistance from Apple Support or an authorized service center. By following preventive measures like regularly updating your iPhone's software and backing up your data, you can reduce the chances of facing 'Attempting Data Recovery' in the future.



What to Do When iPhone Stuck in Data Recovery Mode

If your iPhone is stuck in the "Attempting Data Recovery" mode, it can be a frustrating situation. This issue usually occurs when the iPhone encounters a software glitch or an unsuccessful update.

  • Do not panic: Take a deep breath and remain calm. Panicking will not solve the problem.
  • Force restart: Press and hold the power and volume down buttons simultaneously until the Apple logo appears on the screen. This can often fix minor software issues and get your iPhone out of recovery mode.
  • Update or restore via iTunes: Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes installed. Select the "Update" or "Restore" option to reinstall the latest iOS software. Remember, restoring will erase all data on your device, so ensure you have a recent backup.
  • Seek professional help: If none of the above methods work, it's time to reach out to Apple Support or visit an authorized service center for further assistance.

Remember, attempting data recovery on your iPhone should be done with caution to avoid potential data loss. It's always recommended to regularly back up your device to prevent any data loss situations.


Key Takeaways - What to Do When iPhone Says Attempting Data Recovery

  • Restart your iPhone to see if it resolves the issue.
  • If the problem persists, try force restarting your iPhone.
  • Check your iPhone's storage to ensure it's not full.
  • Update your iOS to the latest version to fix any software bugs.
  • If all else fails, contact Apple Support for further assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Encountering the message "Attempting Data Recovery" on your iPhone can be alarming. To help you navigate this situation, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers.

1. Why does my iPhone say "Attempting Data Recovery"?

If your iPhone displays the message "Attempting Data Recovery," it typically means that your device has encountered a critical issue and is attempting to recover lost data from its internal storage. This can be caused by various factors, such as a software glitch, hardware malfunction, or a failed software update.

In most cases, the "Attempting Data Recovery" process should resolve itself within a reasonable amount of time. However, if the process persists for longer than expected or if you notice any other concerning symptoms, it's essential to take appropriate action to prevent further data loss or device damage.

2. What should I do when my iPhone says "Attempting Data Recovery"?

If your iPhone is stuck on "Attempting Data Recovery," here are some steps you can take:

  • Ensure that your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network. Slow or unstable internet connections can prolong the recovery process.
  • Restart your iPhone by pressing and holding the power button until the "Slide to power off" option appears. Slide it to power off, then press and hold the power button again to turn it back on.
  • If the recovery process continues, force restart your iPhone. This can be done by quickly pressing and releasing the volume up button, followed by the volume down button. Finally, press and hold the side (or power) button until the Apple logo appears.
  • If the issue persists, connect your iPhone to a computer with the latest version of iTunes installed. Select the option to update or restore your device using iTunes. Be aware that this may erase your data, so it's crucial to have a recent backup.
  • If none of the above steps work, it's recommended to consult with Apple Support or visit an authorized service center for further assistance.

3. Will I lose my data if my iPhone is stuck on "Attempting Data Recovery"?

In most cases, your data should be safe when your iPhone is stuck on "Attempting Data Recovery." The process is designed to recover lost data rather than erase it. However, it's important to note that issues during the recovery process can potentially result in data loss.

To prevent any data loss, it's recommended to regularly back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes. This way, even if the recovery process fails or requires a factory reset, you can restore your device from the most recent backup.

4. How long does the "Attempting Data Recovery" process take?

The duration of the "Attempting Data Recovery" process can vary depending on the complexity of the issue and the amount of data stored on your iPhone. In most cases, the process should complete within a few minutes to a few hours.

If the process continues for an extended period, it could indicate a more significant problem. In such cases, it's advisable to seek professional assistance to ensure the safety of your device and data.

5. How can I prevent the "Attempting Data Recovery" message from appearing again?

To minimize the chances of encountering the "Attempting Data Recovery" message on your iPhone, follow these preventative measures:

  • Regularly update your iPhone's software to the latest version available. Software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can help prevent issues.
  • Avoid interrupting software updates or unplugging your iPhone during the update process. These actions can lead to data corruption and other complications.
  • Keep your iPhone's storage space free by regularly deleting unnecessary files, apps, and media. Running out of storage can increase the risk of data corruption and other software problems.
  • Protect your iPhone from physical damage and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or liquids. Physical damage can lead to hardware malfunctions that may trigger the "Attempting Data Recovery" process.
  • Always maintain up-to-date backups of your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes. This ensures that you have a recent copy of your data in case of any unforeseen issues.


In conclusion, if your iPhone is stuck on the "Attempting Data Recovery" screen, there are a few steps you can take to resolve the issue and get your device back up and running smoothly.

First, try a soft reset by holding down the power button and the volume down button until you see the Apple logo. If that doesn't work, you can attempt a force restart by following specific instructions based on your iPhone model. Another option is to restore your iPhone using iTunes or Finder on a computer. Remember to back up your data before attempting a restore to avoid losing any important information.


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