Error -1 when reinstalling iOS on iPhone 7, most likely baseband chip

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Level 3

984 points

Error -1 when reinstalling iOS on iPhone 7, most likely baseband chip

My friend purchased a second-hand iPhone 7 (A1660), iOS 11.4, reinstalled iOS after purchase and all seemed to work OK. In several days it started to randomly lose network and showing "No service" where it shouldn't. He decided to reinstall iOS and all of a sudden error code (-1) appeared in the middle of the restore. Device wasn't jailbroken after iOS reinstall.

What already tried:

- Restarts, software update, change cable.

- DFU mode reinstall

- Reinstalling iOS with iMazing (fails on 'updating baseband' step).

- All steps in 'Error 1' Apple support article.

I found an article regarding faulty baseband chip on iPhone 7 models and seems that this is the case, but there is no Apple store in the country where I'm currently located (Europe).

So questions:

- Should the replacement program work worldwide through authorized service providers or only for US, China and Japan (or at least an Apple Store in that country)?

- What are the options in this case? Should he try to fix the baseband chip or better forget about it because of the price (I assume it may be expensive).

- I found a workaround on youtube with heating the device while reinstalling iOS if you have error -1. Does it make sense and if does, will it work for iPhone 7?

- Any other workarounds?

iPhone 7, iOS 11.4

Posted on Jun 21, 2018 1:47 AM

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Answer 1

Greg B32

Level 4

1,592 points

Jun 22, 2018 5:48 AM in response to FranzWebber

service provider should be able to look after it, they will need to mail it into Apple so it may take a few days. The carrier is also another resource that should be able to mail it in for the repair. I would not do any modifications your self as that may void the eligibility for the repair extension program.

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Answer 2

Jun 22, 2018 5:59 AM in response to FranzWebber

I think this would make more sense for old phones. A higher temperature could cause a higher voltage and maybe some signals can bypass the malfunctioning part of the chip. In any case, I would be very careful with the 7. If possible, better take it to an authorized service provider. Baseband chips can be repaired in 90% of the cases and it will still be cheaper than buying a new phone!

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Answer 3

Jun 22, 2018 5:48 AM in response to FranzWebber

Not sure if it will be possible to use the Apple program if there is no official Apple Store (I'm almost certain that it won't be possible) In my opinion, you should just call the official Apple support line and ask them directly. It's free and they will give you the information you need.

About heating the device - do you mean videos where the guy is heating old iPhone with a hairdryer?

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