How to Fix iPhone 18 Stuck on 'Restoring Photos' After Migration

If Photos remains on “Restoring Photos” after a migration, leave the iPhone connected to power and a reliable Wi-Fi network first. The label describes the current state; it does not identify a confirmed iPhone 18 fault or a specific cause.

Rule out the common blockers

Check that the iPhone has free storage and that the migration/setup process has otherwise completed.
Keep the phone connected to Wi-Fi and power, then open Photos again after some time.
Restart the iPhone once if the status does not change, rather than repeatedly interrupting setup.
Check that you are signed in to the Apple Account used for the migration or cloud photo library.

When to get help

If other transferred data is also missing or setup has not finished, use Apple Support rather than resetting the device without a current backup. Apple documents that software updates need a compatible device, internet access, and available storage; update iOS when one is available before escalating a suspected software issue.

If the iPhone has a broader software problem after Apple's built-in steps, Dr.Fone - System Repair provides a guided desktop workflow for iOS system issues before you consider a full erase.