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4 Ways To Recover Lost Data After iOS 17 Update

Daisy Raines

Sep 04, 2024 • Filed to: Data Recovery Solutions • Proven solutions

The iOS 17 update is a significant update that brings a lot of new features and improvements. But what if you lose some of your data, such as phone contacts, in the process? Don't worry.

There are various ways and iOS data recovery tools, for example, Wondershare Dr.Fone to help you regain your lost data, such as contacts after the iOS 17 update. But before you do that, it's important to understand why data loss can happen during an iOS update.

iphone ios 17 software update

Part 1: Reasons for Contacts and Other Data Lost After the iOS 17 Update

The iOS 17 update is a significant upgrade for your iPhone. But it may lead to unintended consequences, such as lost data. If you're careless, you could lose all your important files like contact information. Here are several common reasons that can account for this inconvenience.

Software Glitches

Software glitches are one of the primary culprits behind lost data after the system update. Sometimes, the update process itself may not go as smoothly as expected. It leads to unintended results, including contacts missing after the iPhone update.

Storage Issues

If your device has insufficient storage space, that can also trigger lost contacts after the iOS 17 update. Why? iOS 17 requires a certain amount of free space to function optimally. Failing to meet this requirement could result in data losses.

Interruptions During Update

Another reason for lost data after the system update could be interruptions during the update process. It could occur due to a sudden loss of power, an unstable internet connection, or an unexpected interruption initiated by the user. These interruptions can disrupt the data transfer process and lead to data loss.

iphone charging on laptop

Many of you want to avoid encountering iPhone loss of data after an update to iOS 17. To minimize the risk, addressing these factors before updating is crucial. But what should you do if you've lost data, like contacts, after the update? Continue reading to find effective recovery solutions.

Part 2: Methods To Recover Lost Data After the iOS 17 Update

If you've recently updated your iPhone to iOS 17 and noticed that data such as contacts are missing, don't panic! There are a few ways you can do to try to get them back.

Recover iPhone Lost Data Using iTunes or Finder

iTunes is Apple's official software for managing and backing up iOS devices. It's also a powerful tool for recovering an iPhone's lost data after the iOS 17 update. When you lose data on your device, iTunes can help retrieve it.

How does it work? iTunes creates regular backups of your device's data when connected to your desktop. So, if you lose a photo, contact, or text message, you can restore it from a previous backup.

  • Step 1: Launch iTunes and connect your iPhone to your computer through a USB cable. Ensure you're using the same computer you used to sync your iPhone before the update.
  • Step 2: Depending on your desktop, do either of the following:
    • For macOS 10.14 or earlier / Windows:Click the Device icon in the top left navigation pane of the iTunes app. Then, click Summary in the Settings section, and click Restore Backup.
    • For macOS 10.15 or later:Open the Finder and select your device in the Locations Next, click Restore Backup.

    restore iphone backup on finder

  • Step 3: In the Choose a backup to restore to this iPhone pop-up window, select the backup file, enter a password if necessary, and click Restore.
  • choose a backup pop up window

  • Step 4: Keep your iPhone connected and wait while it syncs. Click Eject before you disconnect your device.
  • Recover iPhone Lost Data Using iCloud

    iCloud is Apple's cloud-based service that automatically backs up your data. That means you don't have to plug your device into your computer. Here's how to retrieve your lost contacts after the iOS 17 update in iCloud:

  • Step 1: Erase the content of your iPhone device before restoring data from iCloud. Turn on your device.
  • Step 2: Follow the onscreen setup steps, then tap Restore from iCloud Backup from the Apps & Data screen.
  • iphone select app transfer method

  • Step 3: Sign into iCloud and choose the relevant backup that predates the iOS 17 update.
  • Step 4: Wait finishing the transfer process, and your lost data should be back on your iPhone.
  • iphone restore backup from icloud

    Import iPhone Lost Contacts From SIM Card to Your iPhone

    If you still miss some contacts after updating your iPhone, you may want to try importing them from your SIM card. But it is only possible if you had them saved on your SIM card before the update.

  • Step 1: Insert your SIM card into your iPhone if it's not already there.
  • Step 2: Go to Settings > Contacts, scroll down, and tap Import SIM Contacts.
  • iphone import sim contacts

  • Step 3: Select where you want to import the contacts - iCloud or Gmail.
  • Step 4: After the import process, your lost contacts should now be on your iPhone Contacts.
  • Recover iPhone Lost Data Using Wondershare Dr.Fone – iOS Data Recovery

    What if you forgot to create a backup? Fret not! There is a powerful data recover tool to help you out-Wondershare Dr.Fone. Dr.Fone has a data recovery function that can help you regain lost contacts, notes, messages, and more directly from your iPhone. It can even retrieve data from iTunes and iCloud backups. Even if you lost your data after updating to iOS 17, Dr.Fone can still help you regain it.

    The recovery process is simple and easy to follow, even for beginners. Here's how to restore your data from your device without backups:

  • Step 1: Go to the official website of Wondershare Dr.Fone and click Download to download the app on your desktop.
  • safe Downloadsafe & secure
  • Step 2: Launch the app once installed. Click Data Recovery from the Toolbox homepage.
  • dr.fone toolbox homepage

  • Step 3: Select iOS from the phone system options on the next screen.
  • select phone system interface

  • Step 4: Select Recover Data from iOS device to retrieve data from your device directly.
  • recover from ios device in dr.fone

  • Step 5: Connect your iOS device to your computer using a USB cable. The software will automatically detect your device.
  • connect iphone device

  • Step 6: Select the file types you want to recover, such as Contacts, and click Start Scan.
  • select file types to recover

  • Step 7: Dr.Fone will scan your iOS device and display all the recoverable data.
  • dr.fone scanning ios device

  • Step 8: When the scan is complete, preview, select the data files you want to recover, then click Restore to Device.
  • dr.fone restores file preview

    Tip:

    Filter the results on the drop-down list in the upper navigation pane and select Show all, Only show the deleted, or Only show the existing.

  • Step 9: In the pop-up window, select your iPhone device on the Restore to drop-down list and click Continue to confirm.
  • select restore to device

  • Step 10: Click OK in the dialogue box to disable the Find My iPhone function.
  • dr.fone disable find my iphone prompt

  • Step 11: Once the recovery process is complete, you will see a "Data restored to your iPhone" message.
  • dr.fone successfully restore data to iphone

    Part 3: Additional Tips for iPhone Data Recovery and Prevention

    Recovering lost data after the iOS 17 update is one thing. But it's even better to prevent such data losses from happening in the first place. Here are some practical tips to help you safeguard your iPhone data and ensure a smoother experience with future updates:

    Regularly Back Up Your iPhone

    Regular backups ensure your data is safe even if something goes wrong during an update. Use iCloud or iTunes to back up your iPhone. iCloud can automatically back up your data when connected to Wi-Fi, while iTunes provides manual control. Make sure your backups are up-to-date before performing any iOS updates.

    iphone beside a laptop

    Manage Your Storage Wisely

    Running out of your phone's storage space can lead to data loss during an update. Periodically review and delete unnecessary apps, photos, and videos. Offload apps you rarely use and consider investing in more storage if needed.

    Stay Informed About iOS Releases

    Being aware of upcoming iOS updates can help you prepare and reduce the risk of data loss. Keep an eye on Apple's announcements and release schedules. Before updating, check online forums and user feedback for any reported issues with the latest iOS version.

    Use Third-Party Data Recovery Software

    Be cautious and use trusted sources when selecting third-party software. A reliable third-party data recovery tool like Wondershare Dr.Fone can be a lifesaver if all else fails. Follow the software's instructions for data recovery.

    Conclusion

    The methods introduced in this article are usually effective when dealing with iPhone data loss. Among them, Dr.Fone's data recovery tool proves to be invaluable if you lose data after the iOS 17 update.

    Not only can Dr.Fone help you recover your missing contacts and various other data types. But Dr.Fone also provides a convenient option to back up your iPhone data before updating to the latest iOS. It is a smart move for those with limited storage for backups.

    If you can't still recover your data, contact Apple Support for help. They may be able to help you or offer you other solutions. The sooner you start the recovery process, the more likely you'll recover your missing files.

    safe Downloadsafe & secure

    Daisy Raines

    staff Editor

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