#iOS18 is just an upgrade away! 🥳
Follow our step-by-step video on YouTube to learn how to upgrade your iPhone: https://t.co/HPYhsOk5VJ pic.twitter.com/PGuqhv3dFv
— Apple Support (@AppleSupport) September 16, 2024
Apple has introduced a new feature in iOS 18 that allows users to wirelessly restore an iPhone 16 using another iPhone or iPad. This innovative recovery method makes it easier for users to fix their devices without needing a computer. When an iPhone 16 enters Recovery Mode, users can place it next to another iPhone or iPad running iOS 18 to begin the firmware recovery process.
The nearby device will download a new iOS firmware and transfer it to the bricked device.
Forgot your iPhone passcode? We can help.
Watch our video on YouTube to learn how to restore your iPhone if you forget your passcode: https://t.co/w5zrjATlwl pic.twitter.com/Frd5g0eqLt
— Apple Support (@AppleSupport) September 15, 2024
While any device on iOS 18 can facilitate the restoration, only the iPhone 16 lineup is currently compatible with being restored through this specific wireless method. This is due to the new phones being shipped with a special recovery partition that manages the entire recovery process, independent of the main iOS partition.
iOS 18 introduces a new charge limit feature
This is exclusive to iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models pic.twitter.com/GdVUWEgu45
— Apple Hub (@theapplehub) September 17, 2024
Wireless restoration for iPhone 16
It remains unclear whether Apple will expand this feature to older devices or if it relies on new hardware components found only in the iPhone 16. Nevertheless, this marks a significant step forward in simplifying the process for users to fix firmware issues without needing to visit Apple or a repair center.
Apple has also released iOS 17.7 as an alternative to iOS 18 pic.twitter.com/35DdCV4pD0
— Apple Hub (@theapplehub) September 16, 2024
Apple has been reportedly working on this wireless recovery tool internally since 2020, indicating a well-thought-out approach to improving device recovery procedures. The introduction of wireless firmware restoration for iPhone 16 models with iOS 18 is a noteworthy advancement in Apple’s technology. This feature will likely be welcomed by users who prefer a more straightforward method to resolve firmware issues.
iOS 18 is available now, while the iPhone 16 series is set to launch on Friday, September 20.
