Apple has introduced a new feature with the iPhone 16, allowing users to wirelessly restore its firmware using another iPhone or iPad running iOS 18. This is a significant improvement over the traditional method of restoring firmware via a computer. This recovery feature is part of a recent update that the company has rolled out.
How it works
Apple has updated Recovery Mode for iPhones, eliminating the need for a computer. If your iPhone 16 becomes unresponsive or encounters a software issue, place it near another iOS device. The, nearby iOS device will recognize it as needing assistance.
Once detected, the assisting device will initiate a process to download the appropriate firmware and wirelessly transmit it to the iPhone 16. The assisting iPhone device takes over the role that a computer would traditionally play, handling the restoration by transferring the firmware package directly to the iPhone 16. The recovery process is possible due to the recovery OS. The recoveryOS system was previously used in the Apple Watch and Apple TV.
However, for iPhones older than iPhone 16, you would need to connect the device to a Mac or Windows PC to restore it
. This is because the devices doesn’t have the recovery partition.
Key Benefits of this new feature
No Cables or Computers Required: Users can restore their iPhone 16 firmware without needing a computer or physical connection. This adds convenience, especially for users who may not have access to a Mac or PC.
Increased Accessibility: Even in cases where users don’t have access to repair centers or technical equipment, they can restore their iPhone 16 by using another iPhone or iPad running iOS 18.
Faster Process: Wireless transfers may be quicker than traditional wired methods, leading to shorter restoration times.
Also, the processes reduce the need of technical assistance.
These advantages mark a step forward in convenience, efficiency, and innovation in iPhone recovery processes.
