Trying to connect your iPhone XR to your computer but getting an iTunes error 0xE? This typically means your phone isn’t being recognized — and it usually comes down to software glitches, outdated drivers, or USB connection problems.
Here’s how to fix it and get your iPhone XR talking to iTunes again.
Step 1: Restart Your iPhone
If it’s your first time connecting to this computer, a quick reboot might do the trick.
To soft reset:
- Hold the Side button + Volume Up or Down until the power slider appears.
- Slide to power off.
- After 30 seconds, hold the Side button again to turn it back on.
Or force restart:
- Press and release Volume Up.
- Press and release Volume Down.
- Hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
Step 2: Reset All Settings
If something’s off in your iPhone’s configuration, reset your settings to default — this won’t delete your data.
- Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset All Settings.
- Enter your passcode and confirm.
- Your phone will reboot. Try connecting again.
Step 3: Restart Your Computer
Minor glitches on your computer can also block communication with your iPhone.
If you’re on a Mac:
- Click the Apple menu → Restart.
If you’re on Windows:
- Go to the Start menu → click Power → Restart.
You can also power cycle by shutting it down completely, unplugging for 30–60 seconds, then turning it back on.
Step 4: Update or Reinstall iPhone Drivers (Windows Only)
Your computer might not have the right drivers to recognize your iPhone.
- Disconnect your iPhone XR.
- Unlock your iPhone and plug it back in.
- Close iTunes if it opens.
- Right-click the Start button → click Device Manager.
- Expand Portable Devices → right-click Apple iPhone → select Update Driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
After the update, reboot your PC. Then reopen iTunes and reconnect your iPhone.
Step 5: Temporarily Disable Firewall or Antivirus
Sometimes, your antivirus or firewall thinks your iPhone is a threat and blocks the connection.
Try temporarily turning off:
- Your Windows Defender firewall
- Third-party antivirus apps
Reconnect your iPhone while those protections are off. If iTunes sees your iPhone, you’ll need to create an exception rule in your security software.
Still Not Working?
If your iPhone XR is still not recognized:
- Try a different USB cable or USB port.
- Use a different computer to see if the issue is with your phone or your PC.
- Make sure iTunes is updated to the latest version.
- Visit Apple’s support site or Microsoft Support for more advanced help.