Are you tired of encountering the frustrating issue of iTunes getting stuck on “Preparing to Sync“? You’re not alone.
Many users have faced this problem while trying to sync their devices with iTunes. The good news is that there are several effective solutions to resolve this issue and get your syncing process back on track.
In this blog post, we will explore various methods to fix iTunes when it’s stuck on “Preparing to Sync”.
How To Fix ITunes Stuck On Preparing To Sync?
To Fix iTunes Stuck On Preparing To Sync, you can restart tour iPhone and computer, check USB cables and ports, and update iTunes to the latest version. Additionally, you can disable and re-enable iTunes Wi-Fi sync, and end tasks for iTunes helper processes.
1. Restart Your IPhone And Computer
Sometimes, the issue can be a minor glitch either on the iPhone or the computer, and restarting both can help reset any temporary software issues that might be causing the sync process to get stuck.
By doing this, you refresh the system and potentially resolve any minor conflicts that could be hindering the sync.
- On the iPhone, press and hold either volume button and the side button until the power-off slider appears.
- Drag the slider to turn your device completely off.
- After the device turns off, press and hold the side button again until you see the Apple logo to turn it back on.
- On the computer, click the Start menu or Apple menu, then select Restart.
2. Check USB Cable And Ports
Faulty USB cables or ports can interrupt the connection between your iPhone and computer, causing the sync to get stuck.
Ensuring a secure connection with a functioning cable and port can resolve the issue.
- First, try using a different USB cable, preferably an original Apple cable or another MFi certified cable.
- Connect the iPhone to a different USB port on your computer to rule out a possible faulty port.
- Disconnect any other USB devices that might be causing conflicts.
3. Update ITunes To The Latest Version
Outdated iTunes software may have compatibility issues with newer iOS devices or systems, leading to sync problems.
Updating to the latest version ensures compatibility and might include bug fixes for sync issues.
- Open iTunes on your computer.
- On a Mac, go to the iTunes menu and select “Check for Updates.“
- On a Windows PC, go to the Help menu (Ctrl + B toggles its visibility) and select “Check for Updates.“
4. Disable And Re-enable ITunes Wi-Fi Sync
If you’re using Wi-Fi sync, there could be an issue with the network connection. Disabling and then re-enabling Wi-Fi sync can sometimes kickstart the process again.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > iTunes Wi-Fi Sync.
- Tap on “Sync Now” to attempt a sync, or toggle off Wi-Fi Sync and then toggle it back on.
- Make sure your computer and iPhone are on the same Wi-Fi network.
5. End Task For ITunes Helper Processes
Background processes related to iTunes can sometimes cause the application to get stuck.
Ending these tasks can free up the process and allow iTunes to start the sync afresh.
- Open Task Manager on your Windows PC by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Del and selecting Task Manager.
- Look for processes like “iTunesHelper” and select them.
- Click “End Task” to close these processes.
6. Turn Off ITunes Match
iTunes Match can sometimes interfere with the syncing process. Turning it off temporarily can help determine if it’s the cause of the syncing issue.
- Open iTunes on your computer.
- Go to the Account menu and select “iTunes Match.“
- Choose “Turn Off iTunes Match.“
- Attempt to sync your device again.
7. Contact Apple Support
If none of the above steps work, a more complex issue may be at play. Contact Apple Support for further assistance.
Apple has a team of technical support advisors who can provide more in-depth troubleshooting steps.
They have access to advanced tools and may be able to guide you through more complex procedures that aren’t generally recommended for users to perform on their own.