If your iPhone 17 is stuck on the Apple logo and won’t boot up, you are not alone. This issue usually appears after a software update, app installation, or system restore. The good news is that it can often be fixed without losing your data.
When your device freezes on the logo, it means the startup process could not complete. The problem might come from corrupted software, storage issues, or even a hardware malfunction. Let’s go through several ways to bring your iPhone 17 back to life.
Why Your iPhone 17 Might Be Stuck on the Apple Logo
- Interrupted or failed iOS 26 update.
- Corrupted system files or apps.
- Low storage during installation or restore.
- Incomplete data transfer or backup restore.
- Hardware-related problems such as a damaged logic board.
Force Restart Your iPhone.
A force restart can fix minor software glitches that stop the system from booting properly. It is a safe first step and will not erase your data.
- Quickly press and release the Volume Up key.
- Quickly press and release the Volume Down key.
- Press and hold the Side key until the Apple logo reappears, then release it.
If the logo stays longer than usual but eventually loads the Home screen, the restart worked successfully.
Use Recovery Mode.
If a force restart does not work, putting your iPhone into Recovery Mode allows iTunes or Finder to repair the system software.
- Connect your iPhone 17 to a computer using a USB cable, and then open Finder or iTunes.
- Perform the same force restart steps, but keep holding the Side key until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
From here, choose Update to reinstall iOS without erasing your data. If that fails, select Restore to reinstall a clean version of iOS 26, though this will erase everything on the phone.
Check Lightning Cable and Port.
Sometimes the issue may be caused by poor charging or data transfer connections. A faulty cable or dirty port can interrupt an update or system restore.
- Inspect the Lightning port for dirt or debris, and clean it gently using a soft brush.
- Try using a different certified Apple cable or port on your computer.
Once you confirm that the connection is stable, repeat the Recovery Mode steps.
Use DFU Mode.
Device Firmware Update (DFU) mode performs a deeper restore than Recovery Mode. It reinstalls both firmware and software, which can resolve severe system corruption.
- Connect your iPhone 17 to your computer using a USB cable.
- Quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, and hold the Side key until the screen turns black.
- Immediately hold both the Side key and Volume Down key for five seconds, then release the Side key while continuing to hold Volume Down for another five seconds.
If the screen stays black and Finder or iTunes detects your iPhone, you are in DFU Mode. Choose Restore iPhone to reinstall the system.
Contact Apple Support.
If your iPhone 17 remains stuck even after performing all the steps above, it could be a hardware issue. In that case, you will need professional repair.
You can visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider. They can run diagnostics and repair any damaged components preventing your phone from booting.
Getting stuck on the Apple logo can be worrying, but it is often a software issue that you can fix at home. If nothing else works, Apple’s technicians can usually restore your device or replace it under warranty.
FAQs
Will I lose my data if I restore my iPhone using Recovery Mode?
Choosing Update keeps your data, while Restore erases everything and installs a fresh copy of iOS 26.
How long should I wait on the Apple logo before trying to fix it?
If your iPhone 17 stays on the logo for more than five minutes, it is likely frozen and needs a force restart.
Can a low battery cause the iPhone to get stuck on the Apple logo?
Yes. A weak or drained battery can interrupt updates or restarts, leading to startup failures. Always ensure your iPhone is charged before updating or restoring.
