In this guide we will explore the steps of entering DFU (Device Firmware Update) Mode on your iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro or 15 Max. DFU Mode is a powerful tool that allows you to reinstall the device operating system upgrade or downgrade iOS versions restore from backups and even un jailbreak your device if needed.
It is essential to know how to access DFU Mode as a last resort when facing severe software issues.
DFU Mode or Device Firmware Update Mode is a built in feature in iOS devices. It enables a deep level of access to the device firmware making it useful for troubleshooting and repairing the device software. When in DFU Mode the iPhone does not load the operating system allowing it to connect to iTunes or Finder on Mac and Windows computers for firmware restoration.
Note: It is important to realise that because activating DFU Mode wipes out all data on the device and resets it to factory settings, it should only be used as a last option. Backing up your data is highly advised before moving forward.
Prerequisites
- iPhone 15/Plus/Pro/Max
- USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable (the one that came with the device)
- A Mac or Windows computer with iTunes or Finder installed
Entering DFU Mode on iPhone 15/Plus/Pro/Max
- Step 1
Connect your iPhone to your Mac or Windows computer using the USB-C to USB-C cable that came with your device.
- Step 2
Open the Finder app on your Mac. If you are using Windows use iTunes for this process.
- Step 3
Quickly press and release the Volume Up button on your iPhone.
- Step 4
Quickly press and release the Volume Down button on your iPhone.
- Step 5
Press and hold the Side/Power button on your iPhone for approximately 10 seconds. Continue holding it until the screen goes black.
- Step 6
While still holding the Side/Power button, press and hold the Volume Down button for about 5 seconds.
- Step 7
Release the Side/Power button while still holding the Volume Down button. Your screen should remain black.
- Step 8
Your Mac or iTunes/Finder on Windows should now detect your iPhone in DFU Mode, and you will see a message indicating this.
- Step 9
Click on Restore iPhone to initiate the restoration process. This will install the latest iOS version on your device.
- Step 10
The flashing process may take some time. Once completed iPhone will automatically boot to the iOS operating system.
Exiting DFU Mode on iPhone 15/Plus/Pro/Max
If you entered DFU Mode for testing purposes or unintentionally and wish to exit follow these steps:
- Step 1
Quickly press and release the Volume Up button on your iPhone.
- Step 2
Quickly press and release the Volume Down button on your iPhone.
- Step 3
Hold the Side/Power button until the Apple logo appears on your device screen.
- Step 4
Release the Side/Power button. Your iPhone will now boot back to the iOS operating system.
Knowing how to enter DFU Mode on your iPhone 15/Plus/Pro/Max is an essential skill for advanced troubleshooting and repairing your device’s software. However please exercise caution when using DFU Mode, as it erases all data on your device. It should only be used as a last resort when other methods, like Force Restart or Recovery Mode, fail to resolve software issues.
