iTunes Error 9 on iPhone XS Max? Here’s How to Fix It

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Running into iTunes Error 9 while restoring or updating your iPhone XS Max? This frustrating error usually means iTunes lost connection with your device during the restore process—whether due to a cable issue, system glitch, outdated software, or even a USB port hiccup. The good news? You can usually fix it yourself.

Here’s how to troubleshoot iTunes Error 9 and get your iPhone XS Max back up and running.

1. Force Restart Your iPhone XS Max

A basic but effective move. Force restarting helps clear out temporary software glitches.

  • Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
  • Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
  • Press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo.

Then reconnect your iPhone to your computer and try restoring again.

2. Restart Your Computer

Random glitches on your Mac or PC could be interfering with the restore process.

  • On Windows: Click Start > Power > Restart.
  • On Mac: Click the Apple logo > Restart.

After your system reboots, open iTunes again and retry the process.

3. Use Recovery Mode Instead of DFU (For Now)

Sometimes trying to restore while your iPhone is in recovery mode avoids the error.

  1. Open iTunes or Finder.
  2. Connect your iPhone to the computer.
  3. While connected, force restart your iPhone (see Step 1), but keep holding the Side button even after the Apple logo appears.
  4. Release when the recovery mode screen appears (cable icon + computer screen).
  5. On your computer, click Update (not Restore) in iTunes when prompted.

This attempts to reinstall iOS without wiping your data.

4. Try a DFU Mode Restore (If Recovery Mode Fails)

DFU mode (Device Firmware Update) is your last software-level option.

  1. Connect your iPhone to your computer.
  2. Quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down.
  3. Press and hold the Side button until the screen turns black.
  4. Once black, press and hold Volume Down while still holding the Side button.
  5. After 5 seconds, release the Side button but keep holding Volume Down.
  6. Release Volume Down when your iPhone appears in iTunes or Finder.

At this point, choose Restore and follow the prompts. If done right, your screen stays black the whole time.

5. Check Cables and USB Ports

A faulty Lightning cable or bad USB port can interrupt the connection.

  • Use a genuine Apple cable.
  • Try a different USB port on your computer.
  • Avoid using USB hubs—plug directly into your computer’s port.

6. Reinstall iTunes or Update macOS

If you’re using iTunes on a Windows PC:

  • Uninstall iTunes completely.
  • Download the latest version from Apple’s website and reinstall it.

If you’re on a Mac, make sure macOS is fully updated, especially if you’re using Finder to manage your iPhone.

7. Disable Security Software Temporarily

Firewalls, antivirus apps, or VPNs can block iTunes from talking to Apple’s servers.

  • Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus or firewall.
  • Try restoring again, then turn your security tools back on afterward.

8. Use a Third-Party iOS Repair Tool

If iTunes keeps failing, tools like:

  • ReiBoot
  • Dr.Fone – Repair
  • iMyFone Fixppo

…can help fix system-level issues or restore your iPhone without triggering Error 9. Just download your preferred tool, follow the instructions, and connect your iPhone to begin the repair process.

9. Still Stuck? Contact Apple Support

If nothing works, it may be a hardware issue with your iPhone (like a faulty NAND chip or logic board problem).

  • Schedule a Genius Bar appointment.
  • Or reach out to Apple Support for further assistance.

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