How to fix iTunes (iPhone) error (-1)

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What is iTunes error (-1)

iTunes error (-1) is a common issue that arises when attempting to restore or update an iPhone using iTunes. This error typically indicates a hardware issue that mostly relates to a malfunctioning or unsupported baseband. The baseband is a critical component in your iPhone that controls the radio functions for wireless communication. When error 1 occurs, it prevents the restoration or updating process from completing successfully, often leaving the device in an unusable state. Users encountering this error might see a message stating that their iPhone cannot be restored due to an unknown error. Although it appears to be a daunting issue, it’s not always indicative of a serious problem. Several troubleshooting steps can be taken to resolve the issue without requiring hardware repair. Understanding the potential causes can help in targeting the right solution. Often, the error can be resolved by addressing software conflicts or connectivity issues. However, in some cases, a trip to the Apple Store or a certified technician may be necessary.

Download repair tool

Sometimes resolving the errors is out of our control and possibilities. This is where third-party tools are more than welcome to contribute and carry all the difficulties away. If you are facing “iTunes error (-1)” error or similar issues, but fail to benefit from any of the manual steps below, try using Tenorshare ReiBoot — a great recovery tool designed for resolving errors like that. Get to know how one can use it to address the errors and restore or update an iOS device successfully on their website.

Tenor Reiboot Dashboard

Tenor Reiboot Download iOS

Tenor Reiboot Repair Modes

Tenor Reiboot Repair Process

Download iOS Repair Tool

1. Download and install ReiBoot for either Mac or Windows.
2. Once done, open the app and plug your device into the computer.
3. The program should recognize your device and offer a couple of options.
4. Choose Standard if you simply want to update your device, or Deep repair if you want to fully restore it.
5. Then, download the firmware found by the app for your smartphone by clicking Download.
6. Once the process is finished, click Repair now to start resolving the problems.

Standard is meant to search for basic issues and bugs to address them without wiping out your data.
Deep repair will reset your device to factory settings and delete the entire data stored on it.

7. Wait until the app finishes its repair and restores your device. It will take about 15 minutes to end.

Solutions to fix iTunes (iPhone) error (-1) manually

Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Check USB Connection

1. Ensure that your USB cable is properly connected and is not damaged.
2. If possible, try using a different USB cable.
3. Connect your device directly to your computer without using a USB hub.

Update iTunes

1. Open iTunes.
2. Go to the Help menu.
3. Select Check for Updates.
4. Follow any on-screen instructions to update iTunes to the latest version.

Restart Computer and iPhone

1. Detach your iPhone from the computer.
2. Restart your computer.
3. Restart your iPhone by holding the power button until the slider appears, then slide it to power off and wait for few seconds before turning it back on.

Advanced Solutions

Use Recovery Mode

1. Make sure iTunes is closed on your computer.
2. Connect your iPhone to the computer and open iTunes.
3. Force your iPhone into Recovery Mode, which typically involves pressing and holding specific button combinations on your device model until the recovery screen appears.
4. Once in Recovery Mode, follow the on-screen instructions in iTunes to restore your iPhone.

Check Hosts File

1. On your computer, navigate to the directory where the hosts file is located.
2. Open the hosts file using a text editor like Notepad.
3. Ensure there are no entries blocking Apple’s servers, specifically any lines containing gs.apple.com. If found, delete those lines or add a # sign to comment them out.
4. Save and close the hosts file.

Hardware Related Solutions

Inspect Device for Physical Damage

1. Inspect the connectors on your iPhone for any signs of damage or debris.
2. If necessary, clean connectors gently using air or an appropriate cleaning tool.

Consult Apple Support

1. If none of the above solutions work, contacting Apple Support is recommended.
2. Set up an appointment at an Apple Store or an authorized service provider to have your device examined.