When you are trying to update or restore your iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone 18 Pro Max using your Mac, or the Apple Devices app or iTunes on your PC, you may run into an error. Two common errors that indicate a problem connecting with or communicating with your device during an update or restore are error 9 and error 4013. The message you will see looks like one of the following:
- The iPhone [your device name] could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (9).
- The iPhone [your device name] could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (4013).
What is error 9 or 4013?
There are a few error codes that Apple uses to indicate an unknown problem with an iPhone restoration or update. The codes are 4013, 9, 4014 and 4005. These codes can show up if an iPhone gets disconnected during the update or restore process. Apple says that one of these messages might appear if your device disconnects during the update or if your computer loses its connection with the device during restore.
How to fix error 9 or 4013 on iPhone 18 Pro
Try to update or restore again
Before you begin, make sure that if you are using a Mac, it is updated to the latest macOS (System Settings > General > Software Update). If you are using a PC or if your Mac is running Mojave or earlier, make sure that you have the latest version of iTunes installed. After you download iTunes for Windows, you can check for updates in the Microsoft Store.
- If you haven’t already, disconnect your iPhone from your computer. Force restart your iPhone:
- Press and quickly release the volume up button. Press and quickly release the volume down button. Press and hold the side button until you see the Apple logo.
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable. Locate your iPhone on your computer. When you see the option to update or restore, click Update — not Restore — to reinstall the software and keep your personal data. Update will keep your data. If you choose Restore, you will need to set up your device again or restore it from a backup.
Still having trouble?
- If you were able to update your iPhone but it restarted in recovery mode, try again but choose Restore instead of Update. After the restore completes, set up your device from a backup.
- If your update or restore fails and gives you an error again, try:
- Using a different cable to connect your iPhone to your computer.
- Using a different computer to update your iPhone.
If none of these steps have resolved your issue, you may want to contact Apple Support for further assistance.
