Error 14: Update/Restore Failed
This is a general error that occurs when the update or restore process cannot be completed successfully.
- • On Mac with macOS Catalina 10.15 or later: Ensure your Mac is up to date
- • On Mac with macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier: Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes
- • On PC: Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes or the Apple Devices app
- 1 Error 14 often occurs when your device has insufficient storage space
- 2 Choose Update instead of Restore to preserve your data
- 1 Interrupted download or installation
- 2 Insufficient storage space
- 3 Corrupted firmware file
- 4 Connection issues during the process
Understanding Error 14
Error 14 typically occurs when your device doesn’t have enough storage space to complete the update process. This is especially common on devices that were running low on storage before attempting an iOS update. When this happens, your device may get stuck at the Apple logo or enter recovery mode.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Restart Your Device
If your device is stuck at the Apple logo screen, force restart it:
- iPhone 8 or later: Press and quickly release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears
- iPhone 7 series: Press and hold Volume Down + Side button together until the Apple logo appears
- iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold Home + Top (or Side) button together until the Apple logo appears
2. Update Your Computer Software
Make sure your computer is up to date:
- macOS: System Settings > Software Update (macOS Catalina or later uses Finder; earlier versions use iTunes)
- Windows: Update to the latest iTunes or Apple Devices app
3. Connect and Choose Update
- Connect your device to your computer using a USB cable
- Locate your device in Finder or iTunes
- When prompted, click Update — not Restore — to reinstall the software and keep your personal data
Choosing Update preserves your data. Only choose Restore if Update fails repeatedly (this erases all data).
4. Free Up Storage Space
If the update fails due to low storage, you may need to connect to your computer and restore instead:
- Connect your device and choose Restore (this erases data)
- After restoring, set up your device from a backup
- Going forward, keep at least 2-3 GB free on your device for updates
5. Check Your USB Connection
- Use the USB cable that came with your device
- Connect directly to your computer — avoid USB hubs and keyboard ports
- Try a different USB port
6. Try Another Computer
If Error 14 persists, try updating or restoring on a different computer.
If Nothing Works
If Error 14 persists across multiple computers, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
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Other General Errors
If you've tried all the steps above and still can't resolve the issue, you may need to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store. You can also compare your case against Apple's official iOS update and restore errors page.