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What to do if…
your phone is stuck in a restart loop or recovery mode after an update

Produced and maintained by PanicStation.org Published: Last reviewed: Editorial policy UK guide

Short answer

If an update message or progress bar is still moving, connect the phone to a compatible charger and let it continue. On an iPhone showing the Apple logo and a progress bar, keep it connected to power and allow the update to continue even if the bar appears temporarily static; if it has not moved for at least one hour, use Apple’s official stuck-logo instructions. If the phone is repeatedly restarting or remains in recovery mode, follow the official instructions for your exact model and choose a non-erasing restart or update option before considering any restore or factory reset.

Do not do these things

  • Do not repeatedly press buttons while an update progress bar is still moving.
  • Do not select Wipe data, Factory reset, Erase or Restore unless you understand that it may delete your data.
  • Do not use a button sequence intended for a different phone model.
  • Avoid disconnecting the phone during an active computer-assisted update.
  • Do not install unofficial flashing or recovery software from an unknown source.
  • Do not keep charging a phone that is swollen, misshapen, unusually hot, wet or visibly damaged.

What to do now

  1. Check the phone, charging port, cable and charger for unusual heat, swelling, liquid or visible damage. If you notice any of these, disconnect it from power if this can be done safely and contact the manufacturer or a reputable repair provider.
  2. Connect the phone to a compatible mains charger. If the screen says it is updating or a progress bar is still moving, leave it connected and allow the process to continue. On an iPhone showing the Apple logo and a progress bar, allow it to continue even if the bar appears temporarily static; if it has not moved for at least one hour, move to Apple’s official stuck-logo instructions.
  3. On another device, open the manufacturer’s official support page and find the forced-restart instructions for your exact phone model. Perform the stated sequence once, then allow time for the phone to start.
  4. If an Android recovery menu appears, look for Reboot system now. Select it only if the wording and controls match the manufacturer’s instructions, and avoid any option containing Wipe, Erase or Factory reset.
  5. If an iPhone shows the Connect to computer screen, connect it to an up-to-date Mac or PC and open Finder, Apple Devices or iTunes as directed by Apple. Try Update first if it is offered; Restore reinstalls iOS and erases the phone’s data.
  6. If the computer does not recognise an iPhone, check the cable and connection, try a cable that supports data transfer, try another USB port and make sure the relevant Apple software is current.
  7. Write down or photograph any error code, warning, logo or recovery-screen wording. If the phone returns to the same loop after the official restart or non-erasing update attempt, contact the manufacturer or an authorised repair provider and state whether the phone is backed up.
  8. Use another available phone for urgent calls, account verification or essential messages. In an emergency in the UK, call 999 or 112 from another phone.

What can wait

You do not need to decide now whether to replace the phone, claim on insurance, reinstall every app or change every password. A factory reset can wait until you have checked what is backed up, confirmed that you can access the relevant phone account and understood what will be erased.

Important reassurance

A restart loop or recovery screen does not by itself mean that the phone is permanently damaged or that all its data is lost. Avoiding destructive options and following the manufacturer’s steps for the exact model gives you the best chance of preserving the data.

Scope note

This guide covers immediate steps to prevent accidental data loss and make one cautious recovery attempt. Persistent software failures, damaged buttons or suspected hardware faults may require specialist assessment.

Important note

This is general information, not professional repair or data-recovery advice. Procedures vary by manufacturer and model, and a restore, factory reset or repair process may result in data loss.

Additional Resources

Closely connected guides that may be useful during the same situation or its immediate aftermath.

About this guide

This guide was produced and is maintained by PanicStation.org using its published editorial process. Official and specialist sources are checked where relevant, and AI-assisted tools may be used for drafting, organisation, and consistency checks. The site operator remains responsible for publication, revision, and removal decisions.

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