iPhone 12 mini iOS 18 update boot loop

Back in September, I tried updating my iPhone 12 mini to iOS 18. On updating, it went to an Apple logo boot loop that I had to bring it to the service centre after trying the Apple tips and restore it via computer - several times, mind (power button + vol up to enter restore mode etc). They said it was a logic board problem (got corrupted during the downloading of the update) and was charged the price of a new SE 3rd gen or new 11. Since it was out of warranty, I brought it to a different repair shop and they managed to repair it by transplanting the logic board. Last Saturday, 30 November, as I have Automatic Downloads set to on, it downloaded the newest iOS 18 update. It only needed to be installed so I did install it. This is where it gets weird...it went to another boot loop. I'm pretty sure our Internet is stable and I'm on data. It was charging when it downloaded, too. So I brought it back to the repair shop (luckily they have repair warranty). They said that there is a problem with the 12 and 13 series, especially the minis, with iOS 18. I have friends who are on the iPhone 11 and 13 who never had any problems updating to iOS 18 so I am now guessing that there is something wrong with the software coding of the 18 update in my phone. Or the coding of the update with the minis.


Is there anyone here who has a mini, either 12 or 13, who have problems with updating to iOS 18, or anyone literally? Because I am now completely baffled as to why this happened a second time. Thank you.


Note: My mini has a 256GB memory and the first time I updated, it was only half full. So it still has, basically, 128GB in it by the time I first tried to update to iOS 18.

iPhone 12 mini

Posted on Dec 1, 2024 10:30 PM

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5 replies

Dec 1, 2024 10:33 PM in response to Dee1703

Here are some common solutions you can attempt:


  1. Follow the Apple article to resolve the issue --> If your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch won't turn on or is frozen ...
  2. If not resolved; please follow the steps in the following link for support with this issue: If your iOS device restarts or displays the Apple logo or a spinning gear unexpectedly
  3. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary software glitches. Turn off your iPhone, wait for a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
    1. Restart the device. That's it.
    2. Still not solved --> Force restart iPhone - Apple Support
  4. Make sure you have the latest updates installed. Update using iTunes/Finder —> Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support (IN)
  5. You still see a black screen after charging, force restarting, following the steps in this article.
    1. You see a black screen, but you can hear alerts, sounds, and vibrations.
    2. The screen remains black, but the device chirps when you unmute it and connect it to power.
    3. Your screen is on, but it doesn't respond when you tap, slide, or try other gestures. 
    4. You can't force your device to restart because a button is broken or stuck.
    5. Your device is stuck on the Apple logo, displays a solid color, or isn't recognized in iTunes.
    6. Contact Apple Support to set up service if you have any of the above issues:
  6. Please follow the steps in the following Apple Video for support with this issue:



If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it is recommended to reach out to Apple Support or visit an authorized service center for further assistance. They can provide specific guidance based on your device model and iOS version.



Dec 1, 2024 10:52 PM in response to SravanKrA

SravanKrA wrote:

Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.

When it was assessed at the Apple service centre here, it's basically still like new, even after three years - just a few scratches, no water damages, etc. so it is not a external factor.


And I have iCloud.


I never had any issues before. Just iOS 18. And kindly note that this is the second time.


I tried everything the first time it happened - the Apple tip, users' tips, restoring in iTunes, using the Apple device app in Windows, all of it. Nothing happened until it just went into permanent restore mode, hence the repair. But it happened again which makes me think there is something in the software itself and not the hardware. If it was the hardware, which was transplanted when it was repaired, I wouldn't have any problems updating at all.


I am also just asking if anyone has the same experience.

Dec 1, 2024 10:32 PM in response to Dee1703

It's not always the iOS update's fault!  Many things can cause phone problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.


Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: About iOS 18 Updates, About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...



This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

iPhone 12 mini iOS 18 update boot loop

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