iOS 27 has introduced a new device recovery mode, allowing iPhones to boot into an alternative user interface without loading the main operating system. This feature enables users to restore software, enter diagnostics mode, erase the device, and perform automated fixes using Recovery Assistant.
This recovery mode is available on both iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 for iPhones and iPads, which are announced together at the Apple’s WWDC26 event.
To access the recovery mode, users must first turn off the device. Holding down the side button while powering it on will display the Apple logo, followed by a progress bar that leads to recovery mode after a short duration.
Entering recovery mode follows a procedure similar to Apple Silicon Macs, where users hold down the Touch ID power button. The recovery screen presents several options, including ‘Recovery Assistant’, ‘Software Update’, ‘Diagnostics Mode’, ‘Erase All Content and Settings’, and ‘Recovery Mode’.
The interface also displays the current battery percentage and connects automatically to known Wi-Fi networks. A toolbar includes a power button, allowing users to attempt a normal restart of the device.
The new recovery options enable some fixes independently on iOS devices, eliminating the need for a computer in certain scenarios. While it is rare for recovery to be necessary, it may be required if a software update fails or under specific conditions, such as past beta versions leading to soft-locks or boot loops. Users may utilize the Software Update recovery assistant to reinstall the last-known stable OS version without needing to enter DFU mode.
