Updated to iOS 13.3 and now your iPhone X is stuck in a boot loop — constantly restarting and never getting past the Apple logo? That endless cycle is frustrating, but don’t panic. Whether it’s a software glitch or corrupted update, there are several proven ways to fix it.
1. Try a Force Restart
A force restart is the first thing to try. It cuts power to the system and can break out of a stuck boot cycle without erasing any data.
Here’s how:
- Quickly press and release Volume Up.
- Quickly press and release Volume Down.
- Press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo.
If your phone boots up normally, great. Go to the App Store and update all apps to prevent system conflicts, and uninstall any unused or suspicious apps.
2. Factory Reset via iTunes
If the boot loop returns or never ends, use iTunes to perform a factory reset and restore from a previous backup.
Here’s what to do:
- Connect your iPhone to a computer using the Lightning cable.
- Open iTunes (or Finder if you’re on macOS Catalina or later).
- Force restart your iPhone while connected (see above), and wait for iTunes to recognize it.
- When prompted, choose Restore from Backup.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
This wipes your device and installs a fresh copy of iOS 13.3 using a backup from before the issue began.
3. Restore iPhone in Recovery Mode
If the standard factory reset didn’t work, recovery mode gives you deeper access to reset the device’s core system.
Steps:
- Plug your iPhone X into a computer and launch iTunes/Finder.
- Force restart again — but this time, keep holding the Side button even after you see the Apple logo, until you see the recovery mode screen (connect to iTunes icon).
- iTunes will ask you to Update or Restore. Choose Restore.
- Let iTunes reinstall iOS. It will download the firmware, erase the device, and install a clean version.
If the download takes over 15 minutes and your iPhone exits recovery mode, repeat the steps.
4. Perform a DFU Mode Restore (Advanced)
Still stuck in a boot loop? DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode is the most thorough restore option available — it reloads the firmware and software from scratch.
Warning: Do NOT do this if your iPhone has physical damage (like water or drop damage), as it may brick the device permanently.
How to enter DFU mode:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes.
- Quickly press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down.
- Press and hold the Side button until the screen turns black.
- Once it’s black, hold Volume Down while still holding the Side button for 5 seconds.
- Release the Side button but keep holding Volume Down until iTunes detects your iPhone in recovery mode (screen remains black).
- Follow the prompts to Restore your iPhone.
To exit DFU mode, just force restart your iPhone again.
Other Tips:
- Remove your iPhone case and plug into a wall outlet. If there’s a hardware fault like a loose connector, it could help with stability during charging.
- Uninstall recently added or suspicious apps if you get the phone to boot temporarily.
- Avoid third-party cables or chargers while troubleshooting.
Still Stuck in a Boot Loop?
If none of the above steps work, you may be dealing with a hardware-related issue — such as a failing battery, faulty logic board, or damage caused during the update process.
Your best bet now:
- Contact Apple Support directly.
- Visit a nearby Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider for diagnostics and repair.
Boot loop issues can sometimes be tied to deeper iOS bugs, so reporting it to Apple can also help escalate a fix in future updates.