iPod touch 4th generation restore fails with unknown error

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iPod touch 4th generation restore fails with unknown error

Hello, I have a 4th generation iPod touch that is stuck either off or is on the USB to iTunes turn on screen when plugged into my computer. I have an early 2015 MacBook Pro original to me from then, that is running on Monetary Version 12.7.6. My problem is that I will plug it in via USB to the computer, and then it will show in finder and will show the reset and restore button which I then click, it sits and gets ready for the restore and reset but then will show an unknown error as soon as it looks like it will actually begin the process. I have tried two different cords, as well as the iPod restart trick where you hold and click certain buttons and it has had no effect. I feel stuck and would like some input into why it won't reset and restore. Thanks

iPhone 17 Pro, iOS 26

Posted on Apr 23, 2026 11:22 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

WheelieNick

Level 9

57,153 points

Aug 16, 2026 3:05 PM in response to landon_peterson

Your 4th generation iPod touch fails to restore because the old firmware signing servers for iOS 6/5 are long gone, or macOS Monterey's Finder is timing out trying to fetch legacy activation and software packages for a device from 2010. Hardware battery degradation or a failing flash storage chip on the iPod can also trigger an instant unknown error code the second data transfer begins.

Try this

Try entering DFU Mode instead of standard recovery mode before clicking restore in Finder:

Plug the iPod into your Mac.
Hold both the Home button and the Power (Top) button for exactly 10 seconds.
Release the Power button while continuing to hold the Home button for another 5 to 10 seconds.
If the screen stays completely black (and the Mac's Finder detects a device in recovery), it is in DFU mode.

Test a different USB port directly on the MacBook Pro rather than using a USB hub.

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