If your iPhone 8 is stuck on the white Apple logo after updating to iOS 13, you’re likely dealing with a serious software glitch. This usually happens when the update process is interrupted or system files get corrupted. While it might feel like your phone is bricked, there are several steps you can try to bring it back to life. Let’s walk through them.
1. Force Restart Your iPhone 8
This quick fix helps if the phone is just temporarily frozen during boot.
How to force restart:
- Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
- Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
- Then, press and hold the Side (Power) button until the Apple logo disappears and reappears.
If this works, install pending app updates right away and consider resetting all settings to avoid future issues:
- Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings
2. Restore Using Recovery Mode (via iTunes or Finder)
If your iPhone won’t go past the Apple logo, a recovery mode restore may be necessary.
Here’s how to do it:
- Turn off your iPhone 8.
- Plug it into your computer while pressing and holding the Side button.
- Release the button when you see the Connect to iTunes/Finder screen.
- On your computer, choose Restore when prompted.
This will reinstall iOS. Your data will be erased unless you restore from a backup after.
3. Use DFU Mode (Device Firmware Update)
This is the most advanced restore option, often used by Apple technicians.
Steps to enter DFU mode on iPhone 8:
- Connect your phone to a computer with iTunes/Finder open.
- Turn off your phone.
- Press and hold the Side button for 3 seconds.
- While holding the Side button, press and hold Volume Down for 10 seconds.
- Release the Side button but keep holding Volume Down for 5 more seconds.
If the screen stays black and iTunes detects the phone, you’re in DFU mode. Follow on-screen instructions to restore.
To exit DFU, force restart your iPhone.
4. Try Third-Party iOS Repair Tools (No Data Loss)
If you don’t want to erase your iPhone, some tools offer standard repair options that preserve data.
Popular tools include:
- Tenorshare ReiBoot
- iMyFone Fixppo
- Dr.Fone Repair
- Joyoshare UltFix
Install one of these on your computer, connect your iPhone, and follow the repair instructions.
5. Still Stuck? Contact Apple Support or Visit a Genius Bar
If your iPhone still won’t boot past the Apple logo:
- Contact Apple Support for guided help.
- Visit an Apple Store or authorized repair center to check for deeper firmware or hardware issues.
In rare cases, a botched update may corrupt the bootloader or damage NAND flash, which requires professional repair.