You’re all set to back up your iPhone or sync music through iTunes. You plug in your device and—bam! A strange message pops up: “iTunes cannot read the contents of the iPhone.” What?! Don’t panic. We’ve got you covered with a quick and easy guide to fix this issue.
This problem is more common than you might think. It’s usually caused by corrupted files, outdated software, or a confused iTunes library. But no worries—we’ll straighten it out together!
Step 1: Restart Everything
- Restart your iPhone. Hold the power button and slide to turn it off. Wait a few seconds before turning it on again.
- Restart your computer. Sometimes, the simplest fix is just rebooting your system.
- Reconnect your iPhone to your computer using the lightning cable.
You’d be surprised how often this does the trick. If not, keep going!
Step 2: Update iTunes and iOS
Make sure you’re running the latest versions of both iTunes and your iPhone’s software.
- On macOS: iTunes is now built into Finder. Just update your macOS to the latest version.
- On Windows: Open iTunes, go to Help > Check for Updates.
- Update your iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Outdated software often causes compatibility issues. Stay current!
Step 3: Trust This Computer
When you connect your iPhone to a new computer, you have to trust it. If you miss this step, iTunes won’t connect properly.
- Unplug your iPhone.
- Plug it back in and wait for the “Trust This Computer?” message.
- Tap Trust and enter your passcode.
Still no luck? Let’s dig deeper.
Step 4: Delete iTunes Library Files (Carefully!)
Sometimes the iTunes library on your iPhone gets corrupted. Here’s how to fix it:
- Use a file browser app like iExplorer or iFunBox (Mac or Windows).
- Connect your iPhone and open the app.
- Navigate to iTunes_Control > iTunes.
- Delete the files iTunesDB and iTunesCDB.
These files will be rebuilt automatically by iTunes when you reconnect your iPhone. This usually fixes the error.
Step 5: Try a Third-Party Tool
Don’t like poking around with file systems? No problem! Use apps like:
- AnyTrans
- iMazing
- Dr.Fone
These tools are user-friendly and may help you manage content without involving iTunes at all.
Step 6: Reset Settings on Your iPhone
If none of these work, try resetting just the settings on your iPhone. Don’t worry—your data will be safe.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Select Reset > Reset All Settings.
- Your iPhone will restart. Reconnect to iTunes afterward.
This can resolve deeper system glitches without wiping your photos, messages, or apps.
Bonus Tip: Back Up Without iTunes
If iTunes keeps being difficult, use iCloud for backups:
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
- Tap Back Up Now.
It’s easy, wireless, and great when your cable or iTunes don’t feel like cooperating.
Final Thoughts
We get it—tech hiccups are annoying. But now you’ve got a toolbox full of simple and effective fixes. Whether it’s restarting, updating, or using a handy app, there’s something here that’ll get you back on track.
So go ahead—sync that music, back up those photos, and show iTunes who’s boss!