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iPhone error 48

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By Ariane and GenesisUpdated on June 4th, 2022

What is iPhone error 48?

iPhone error 48 is an error that usually occurs during a restore via iTunes when the IPSW file extension is corrupted. The error has also been reported when attempting to backup or update the device. Users may end up getting stuck in recovery mode when this error occurs.

Possible reasons for this error include an anti-virus blocking iTunes, hardware problems, or iTunes issues.

The error may appear as "Error -48 iTunes unable to download your update at this time. Check network connection or settings."

How can you fix iPhone error 48?

Some of the solutions to this error include deleting the IPSW file extension and repairing the hardware.

Please see our in-depth walk-through solutions below.

1. Delete IPSW file extension

iPhone error 48 may appear when files with the IPSW file extension (the iPhone firmware) have become corrupt. You might want to download new files and update your device.

Delete IPSW file extension
Image Credit: genesismarasigan / ErrorSolutions.tech

For Windows

  1. Go to C:\Users*your account*\AppData\Roaming\iTunes\iPhone Software Update. NOTE: If you cannot see the AppData folder. Click view and check the Hidden Folder.
  2. Delete the .IPSW file, or CTR-A and delete all.
  3. Update your device.

For OS X

  1. Run Finder.
  2. Press Go and then select Go to Folder.
  3. Type in ~/Library and Press Go.
  4. Open iTunes folder.
  5. Open iPhone Software Update folder.
  6. Delete the .IPSW files.
  7. Update your device.

2. Repair hardware

iPhone error 48 may also occur due to a faulty mainboard component, such as U12_RF or the baseband chip. To confirm that, try to run a Device Firmware Update (DFU) at least five times, it could only be a bad firmware. If DFU did nothing to fix error 48, it is better to send this to the Apple service center for warranty claims. However, if your phone is out of warranty, a cellphone repair shop with chip level repair skills could repair this type of problem.