iOS: Download free firmware for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad of all versions, changes in the latest version of iOS. How to reflash an iPhone using a PC and iTunes iPhone 4 is not flashing what to do

The software of any device becomes obsolete over time. This is a normal process, since any company continues to work on its software, constantly improving it.

The firmware for iPhone 4 is no exception. The device itself cannot be called too backward in terms of its technical configuration - you can look stylish with it even today. A plus technical specifications models (camera, processor and other indicators) are high enough for the phone to function normally.

Nevertheless, the operating system on which the device runs is obsolete - Apple has already released its 9th version, while the 4th generation model came with iOS 5. Of course, the OS has become more productive, convenient and attractive in appearance for these updates. Therefore, some users go to great lengths to bring their phone to the same state. Simply put, they will learn how to flash an iPhone 4 phone. However, flashing may be needed not only for this.

In this article, we will try to reveal as much as possible what kind of procedure it is and why it is needed.

Each smartphone works with a certain version operating system. The firmware procedure means changing it, which can include both switching to a newer generation, or simply updating the existing one to the state in which the phone was released from the factory.

Perhaps someone will think that flashing an iPhone 4 is a complex process that can only be done by hackers or qualified service center workers, but this is not so. In fact, this is a fairly simple action. And Apple made sure that everyone could easily handle it, almost at home.

Why is she needed?

As already noted, one of the options for the need to update the software of your device may be the desire to simply upgrade to a more new version his OS. This is normal, because, as we already mentioned, it may be due to extended functionality.

So, in addition to this, the user can search for information about his iPhone 4 (how to flash it on his own) in order to reduce the model to factory settings. You may need this if you find someone else's phone or, say, when a smartphone was given to you by a person who previously used it. Thus, you simply want to erase all information from the device that relates to other users, and get your hands on a completely clean model.

Methods for flashing "iPhone 4"

Well, whatever dictated your desire to learn how to flash iPhone 4 (this also applies to s-modifications), we will describe the methods for carrying out this procedure in this article. There are two of them - this is "Update" and "Restore". Both are conducted through a computer with preinstalled program iTunes and a cord connecting a smartphone to a PC; or directly on the device itself using a local WiFi connection.

Each of the two methods of how to reflash an iPhone 4s (or just 4) implies some individual features. Read about the differences between them later in the text, in the sections on these methods.

Recovery

Let's talk about recovery first. You can refer to it only if you work according to the "Computer + iTunes + phone" scheme. The "Recovery" tab can be found after your smartphone is recognized by the PC, after which a menu will appear on the monitor to manage it.

The restore procedure itself is more complex than the update, since it involves deleting personal data from the phone. It is aimed at, as mentioned above, to get a "clean" mobile phone. It is carried out, for example, in the case of the transfer or sale of the iPhone, as well as when the user is looking for how to flash the found iPhone 4.

Save Information

Describing this procedure, it is impossible not to mention that you need to be careful and save all your files in advance. It will be impossible to restore them after this step, all information from your iPhone will be lost forever. Therefore, it is not recommended to restore the device unnecessarily, as an experiment, and also when you have not bothered to back up all your files (especially photos) on other media. Since, as user reviews show, this is a fairly common problem and mistake when a person confuses a process with a simple update and loses all content.

Update

So, as you may have guessed, this procedure does not include removing the user from the device, since it is only aimed at switching to a more recent version of the operating system.

Instructions on how to carry out this operation depend on which update method the user chooses - via a computer and iTunes, or via WiFi, working with the phone itself. Those who are thinking about how to flash iPhone 4s need not worry. Neither the first nor the second methods are particularly difficult. It just all depends on the conditions in which the flashing will be carried out. This is access to the Internet, the presence of an operating system and, of course, a cord for connecting a smartphone (you should take care of it).

Step-by-step instruction

If we paint everything step by step, we have the following picture. If we need to restore the device, we simply connect our iPhone 4 to the computer using a cable (how to flash it without access to a PC - we will describe below).

Next, open the iTunes program, where in the upper right part of the screen you will see the menu of your phone. You need to click on it. The phone status panel will open in front of you, on which the “Restore” and “Update” keys will be located, by the names of which it becomes obvious what they are for.

If you are dissatisfied with the work of your iPhone 4, how to flash it is a natural question. When performing this operation using a PC, remember that it is possible to point the program to a previously downloaded version of iOS and that the software can independently search for a more recent assembly. If this is indeed available, iTunes will offer to install it. And remember that the answer to the question of whether it is possible to flash iPhone 4 is negative if you wanted to return to the previous OS. The developers of the device made sure that you cannot select an older version of the operating system again. This causes inconvenience to users who have switched to iOS 8 generations, who note that it does not work correctly, freezes and periodically slows down. This was not observed on older versions of the OS.

After all this, you just have to wait. Download and installation process new system will be displayed on the phone screen, so the user at this time can just go to drink coffee, for example. Actually, nothing is required of him during this process - the phone performs all the actions on its own.

Through WiFi or on a computer?

Comparing these two procedures, we only note that the device will take longer to download the distribution kit on its own. Downloading to PC is faster. It depends on the WiFi module installed on the iPhone 4 (how to flash the latter, we have already described in the instructions). Its transfer rate is less than that of a full-fledged computer. However, in some situations, when there is simply no access to a PC and you need to flash the firmware, this helps. So choose a method based on what you have at hand.

Cautions

This is how the iPhone 4 works. How to flash it, you already understood. Now let's talk about some caveats. The first is addressed to owners of non-original devices. If you are looking for how to flash a Chinese iPhone 4, then you have the wrong address. Most often counterfeit smartphones (in particular, copies of the iPhone 4) work for (and in some cases - without it at all). Accordingly, the entire procedure described in this article is not applicable to them. Most likely, the developers who released the copy did not take care of how to make updates, so the owners of such phones were out of luck.

Another note should be made to those who are looking for how to reflash an iPhone 4s that has been "unlocked" (or "jailbroken"). If your phone was unlocked from under any operator (for example, AT&T, Verizon or Sprint), then by updating its operating system, you will most likely lose this “jailbreak”. To reset all phone settings to factory settings, you can use special programs, such as SemiRestore. However, you should not resort to the procedures described here.

There are many different instructions and guides on this subject. They describe that working with such programs is usually quite simple - you need to connect the device to a computer, run such software on it and wait until all information is deleted. Upon completion, you will also receive a clean iPhone 4, however, the “jailbreak” on it should remain - and this is the main thing.

Why pay more?

As you can see, the procedure iPhone firmware 4 is quite simple even for an inexperienced user. Any person with minimal PC skills can easily cope with it, since all actions are reduced to elementary.

This makes visiting a service center to completely delete data from the phone pointless. Each of us knows how to reflash iPhone 4s, update our iOS to the latest version, reset all settings and at the same time not be too distracted from our affairs. So, the question is, why pay more?

The iPhone is a reliable device that can please owners long time. The quality of assembly and software make the phones of this company the undisputed leaders in the market.

Do I need special programs to flash an iPhone

• Recovery. It is important to remember that the firmware of the device always comes with complete removal data. Therefore, when starting the process, you need to make sure that all important data is saved.
• Update. This installs the latest software version on the device. At the same time, all user information kept in full

Important. The iPhone does not allow you to install an older version of the software than is installed. Migration from beta to general is also blocked.

Flash iPhone via iTunes

• Using a special cable, you need to connect the phone to the PC
• After launching the program, select the page with device management. To do this, you need to activate the button in the form of a phone.
• Hold down the "Shift" key and click on the "Restore iPhone" button. If using a MAC computer, hold Alt
• In the window that opens, find the file responsible for the firmware. In order to distinguish it from the rest, it should be remembered that its extension is "IPSW". In the case of an erroneously selected file, the program will display an error
• If everything is correct, itunes will ask you to confirm your actions. You need to activate the "refresh" button
• All further processes are carried out automatically and are regulated by a program that will remove the software that has become unnecessary and install the required

Is your iPhone locked? How to flash in this case

• Using iTunes
• WITH using iCloud. To do this, you need to go to iCloud.com. There you will need to enter your Apple ID in a special field. By following a simple algorithm of actions, you can return your phone to a working state
• Through recovery mode. To do this, you need to connect the device to iTunes and simultaneously hold the "lock" and "home" buttons. After a while, the iTunes icon will appear, and a window will appear on the screen allowing you to run the recovery program

How to flash a Chinese iPhone if it is on Android

Is there a way to flash an iphone without itunes

• Via WiFi
• With RecoveryMode
• Via DFU Mode

Via WiFi

With RecoveryMode

Via DFU Mode

How to flash an iPhone 4s yourself: video

The iPhone 4S firmware is in the process of restoring its performance. In this case, you need to know that all data will be lost during this operation. To do this, before flashing, you must perform backup(provided that the iPhone is in working condition).

Before carrying out operational steps for flashing an iPhone 4s, it is necessary to download the firmware file using the extension - ipsw. The firmware type will depend on specific version device. To find the appropriate firmware version for iPhones, the files will indicate all available versions, as well as device models.

In the process of choosing a suitable firmware option, it happens that the models are difficult to find, due to the presence of modifications - CDMA, GSM iPhones. It is this that is a very important point in the selection of the necessary model. When choosing a specific type of model, you will need to find a site to download the firmware. You should choose the appropriate option and, if the choice is correct, carry out the OS download process. You can also pick up a new version of IOS, or download old firmware, which was earlier. The main condition is signing old version by the Apple company.

The next step is to turn off Find My iPhone. This condition necessary to ensure a successful iPhone 4s flashing process, as the enabled state of the options may interfere with this. You should check for a new version of iTunes. In this case, the program is launched and, if a new version is available, it will be reported via iTunes and then it will be possible to update it automatically.

After carrying out all the measures taken, it will be possible to proceed to the implementation of the flashing process itself.

How to flash iPhone 4s

There are several ways to flash for iPhone 4s: through DFU mode and the second option - recovery mode. The second method is an emergency recovery mode and is intended when restoring the optimal performance of the device on IOS, in cases where the device stops working when regular modes. In DFU mode, all operational actions are carried out in addition to the iPhone OS and flashing directly through firware. This method suitable for those who own a device that has a Jailbreak, as well as in cases where it is not possible to carry out this operation when Recovery help mode.

Flashing process using Recovery Mode:

• at the very beginning, you should turn off the iPhone and connect to the computer (Home function), it will also recognize the device in Recovery Mode;
• launch iTunes and wait for the search result;
• two options may arise here - through iTunes, the restoration of the device will be offered (then you need to select the function - OK) and without the participation of iTunes. You will need to click on the iPhone image symbol and search for the function - “iPhone Recovery”;
• after that, you will need to press Shift key(Windows OS) or Alt key (Mac OS). After that, you should select the firmware plan through the "File Manager";
• among the files, find a pre-uploaded type of a suitable file. Then select it and click "Open".

Next, iTunes will carry out all the necessary steps on its own. After that, you should disconnect the device from the computer (press the function - “Power” and turn off the device). The device turns on by quickly pressing the “Power” function. Thus, the device will be completely fixed and ready for operation.

Flashing via DFU mode:

• at the very beginning we transfer to DFU mode;
• we connect the device to the computer and turn off the device;
• with the simultaneous pressing of the keys - "Home", "Power" and count about ten seconds. Then you should release the "Power" button, and at the same time hold the "Home" button until software system iTunes will not recognize an iPhone in DFU mode.

The order of operations in the recovery process is similar to Recovery Mode. This method is effective for those who have Installed Jailbreak or the operation had no effect through Recovery Mode.

Flashing is performed when the program of new software with the presence of additional options very often crashes and when the owner of the device changes. In such cases, this operation will also need to be carried out with the built-in modem, as a result of which it will be blocked. The lock is removed after the firmware.

Flashing iPhone, iPod Touch via iTunes

After the restoration process, the iPhone 4s is set up by default, like a new device. You should select a pre-downloaded IPSW file. In Apple's iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, the software is called iOS. Flashing an IOS device is a recovery process either software update device, which consists of resetting the settings to the original (factory) level, with simultaneous IOS settings updated version. Restoring and updating have one distinguishing feature, which is that personal data is preserved (when updating).

There is an option to reset the iPhone, with the removal of content, without the need for updating the IOS version, and without losing the Jailbreak. Upon completion of the update process, there is a chance to get a device with iOS programs, with completely saved user content and the presence of all settings.

Very important point: it is forbidden to update the device with a jailbreak, as this may lead to eternal loading iPhone 4s. First, you should proceed to download the file with the required firmware version.

iPhone flashing features

If these problems occur with the device, this forces you to make a choice - perform a number of necessary actions yourself or take it to service center? It should be noted that carrying out repairs in a workshop will cost a fairly decent amount of money. In this case, you can try to carry out the firmware at home, especially since this operation is not particularly difficult and even an inexperienced person can do it.

How to flash an iPhone yourself if it is working? You need to make a direct connection to personal computer in order to create a backup copy, since the settings during the operation will be permanently deleted. Then, it is advisable to copy personal photos, videos, audio materials to HDD. When carrying out all the necessary measures, you need to know that despite the modifications of iPhones - 3, 4s, 5s, this procedure is identical for all devices. Given this, you should not worry about the presence of some inconsistencies in the instructions for a particular brand of device. The most important condition is the exact and stepping all recommendations. Before you start the firmware process yourself, you should in detail study the instructions for carrying out these activities, which will be the key to success in the process of restoring the gadget's performance.

Today, the iPhone occupies a leading position in the global market for sales. mobile devices. This is due to the presence a large number technical capabilities, a variety of functional features and services, with the provision of a variety of services. These devices are of very excellent quality and durability during operation. But over a certain period of time, it is possible to stop normal functioning device and the formation of some errors. Sometimes there are situations when the iPhone starts to reboot by itself or there are problems when Last update or a new operating system are unsuccessful.

The flashing process will ensure the working condition of all the functions of the device, so that it will be able to last for a very long time.

It is called the procedure in which software is installed on the gadget. Flashing an iPhone does not always mean updating it to the latest version of iOS. Among the owners of "apple" gadgets there are a lot of conservatives who wish to continue using the 5th or 6th versions of the operating system, considering them the most successful. These users have the opportunity to download software on iPhone that suits them.

The owner of the gadget should know how to reflash the iPhone on their own - in otherwise with each new version of iOS released, he will have to seek help from salon consultants who charge crazy prices for iPhone-related services. This article will tell you how to change the firmware correctly.

Flashing can be one of two types - recovery and update.

• After recovery you will get a “clean” iPhone, without content and with the same version of the “OS” that was originally (or with the one you choose yourself).
• After updates the latest version of the operating system will be installed on your gadget, and all data will remain in place.

Apple does not allow you to "downgrade" the version of the operating system. If you installed, say, iOS 7, then revert to iOS 5 standard means you can no longer.

It is also impossible to return from the beta version of the firmware to the latest official one.

There is an exception to this rule: within 2 weeks after the release new iOS a "window" is open - users have the right to "roll back" to previous version software if they didn't like the new one. In addition, they can use informal software tools, like RedSnOw or Tiny Umbrella, however, these programs only work on "old" modifications of the iPhone.

Preparatory actions

Before you start flashing your iPhone, you need to follow these steps:

Download firmware to computer. Finding a source site from which you can download the firmware is as easy as shelling pears: on request search system will give dozens of such sites. But you need to choose the firmware carefully - pay attention to the following criteria:

• iPhone modification (4, 4S, 5S and so on).
• Communication standard. While searching for the firmware, you will notice that on specialized sites, the firmware files are divided into two blocks: GSM and CDMA. At 99% you need GSM firmware! CDMA-iPhones have a clear distinguishing feature: the lack of a tray for a SIM card. CDMA iPhones are programmed to work with just one operator, which is why their cost is much lower. Another thing is that on Russian market You will not find CDMA iPhone - these can only be ordered from the USA or China.
• iPhone model. The model is a set of letters and numbers - it is indicated on the back of the device and on the packaging.

Image: 4apple.org

Knowing all this data, you definitely will not “miss” with the choice of firmware.

Download and install the latest versioniTunes . It is recommended to use the official Apple website - follow this link. At the time of writing, the latest version is iTunes 12.5.1 .

Turn off Find My iPhone on your smartphone. Follow the path" Settings» — « iCloud" and deactivate the toggle switch opposite " Find iPhone". If this feature remains enabled, iTunes it simply will not be able to flash and will give an error.

Copy personal data from iPhone to another storage medium. During the flashing process, data may be lost.

How to flash an iPhone through iTunes yourself?

Reflash your iPhone like this:

Step 1. Connect the gadget to the PC with a cable and open iTunes.

Step 2. Go to the gadget management page - to do this, click on the button with the image of a smartphone.

Step 3. Press the button " Shift" and press " Restore iPhone…”(on the Mac computers instead of " Shift» clamped « alt»).

A window will appear through which you need to find and select the firmware loaded into the computer's memory. The firmware file has the format IPSW.

If you have downloaded firmware that is not suitable for a particular gadget, the program will display such an unfriendly notification:

Step 4. Confirm that you want to flash your iPhone - click " Refresh» in this window:

No further action needed - iTunes will delete the content and install the firmware. The gadget will switch to recovery mode, and its settings will be reset to the original.

You can avoid the independent search for a suitable firmware by entrusting this matter to iTunes. However, the program will 100% install the latest available “OS” on the gadget, and not the one that is on this moment is on iPhone.

If this suits you, then you can simply click on the 3rd step " Restore iPhone…", without holding the buttons on the keyboard.

How to restore iPhone with jailbreak?

If your iPhone is jailbroken, it is recommended to reflash the gadget via " DFU MODE" (mode DFU). Also, this method should be addressed if iPhone recovery according to the previous scenario (via recovery mode) didn't work for some reason.

Step 1. Enter the smartphone into mode DFU: Simultaneously press and hold the buttons for 10 seconds Home" and " power", then release " power».

Step 2. Connect your device to your computer with a cable. Thereafter iTunes should display a message like this:

Upon completion of the procedure, exit the smartphone from DFU mode: hold down " Home» + « power” and wait until the cherished bitten apple appears on the screen.

How to update iPhone?

There are two ways to update iPhone: via iTunes and "by air"(that is, via Wi-Fi).

Update iPhone via iTunes

Update procedure via iTunes similar to procedure iPhone recovery- you need to act like this:

Step 1. Connect the gadget to the PC, in iTunes go to the device management menu.

Step 2. Click not " Restore iPhone…", a " Refresh» - the button next to it.

If you see such a window, it means that the latest version of the software is already installed on the smartphone, or the last of those that this particular model is able to "pull".

For example, the device was used iPhone 4: iOS 7.1.2 - the maximum that is set for this modification.

If you have the firmware file, you don't have to wait for iTunes to download it. Through the combination Shift» + « Refresh» find the file in the PC memory.

Step 3 Wait for the procedure to complete and enjoy the new software from Apple. Settings and data will remain in place.

Update iPhone over Wi-Fi

The ability to update over the air first appeared on devices with iOS 5.

Update via 2G and 3G connections is not possible because throughput mobile connections too small.

To update iOS over Wi-Fi, proceed as follows:

Step 1. Activate on Wi-Fi device- swipe up and down to call up the Control Center panel ( Control Center) and on this panel click on the Wi-Fi icon.

Step 2. Go to " Settings”, go to the Wi-Fi section and connect to available network in block " Select network…”.

Step 3. Return to " Settings" and go to " Main».

Step 4. From the section " Main» go to subsection « Software Update».

Step 5. Wait for the update check to finish. If the iPhone finds a newer version of the operating system than the one currently installed on your device, you will see this picture:

Click " Download and install" - so you start the update "over the air". If your iPhone already has the ultimate version of iOS, you will see a message like this:

Do not update your iPhone with a jailbreak - this can lead to sad consequences!

The gadget will be in the so-called "eternal apple" mode or fall into the "loop" in recovery mode. The problem lies in the fact that Jailbreak for the new version of the iOS operating system appears with a significant delay - it turns out that the iPhone is updated "to nowhere". To flash "jailbroken" Apple gadgets, you should only use the " Restore iPhone…”.

Conclusion

Owners of non-hacked iPhones with flashing should not have any problems at all - the user's task is to connect the smartphone to the PC and press just one button, and then iTunes will do everything himself. But owners of gadgets with jailbreak are advised to be more careful: in order not to lose the jailbreak, it is better to use the iTunes, but special software like a program Semi Restore.

In the process of updating the operating system of an iOS device, all user data is saved: photos, applications, contacts, and so on. When restoring (flashing) the device, its settings are reset to the factory settings with the upgrade of the software version to a new one, during this process all data on the device will be deleted, that is, you will receive a “clean system”. Flashing is performed in case of: frequent software failures, installation of new software with additional options, when changing device user.

Never restore or update the official version of iOS firmware on a locked (SIM card tied to a specific carrier) iPhone. This will also flash the built-in modem of the device, and subsequently it will not be possible to “unlock” it. programmatically. You can't use the update on a jailbroken iPhone (iPhone firmware modification not approved by Apple to install non-Apple apps on the device). App Store). A jailbroken iPhone needs to be restored via DFU mode.