Level 1 (55 points)

iPhone 18 Pro stuck in recursive setup loop during data transfer

My new iPhone 18 Pro is stuck in a recursive setup loop. I am trying to transfer the data from my iPhone 17 Pro to the new phone, and after I go through the initial setup steps—Quickly set up your iPhone screen, pattern recognition image, Set Up For Me button on iPhone 17, Signing In screen on iPhone 18, Transfer your apps and data screen on iPhone 18 (where I tap "Transfer from another iPhone"—the iPhone 17 Pro screen shows the "Enjoy your new iPhone" alert. However, the iPhone 18 Pro screen immediately returns to the Quickly set up your iPhone screen (back to square one). Does anyone know why this is happening?

Posted on Sep 18, 2026 12:17 PM

2 replies

WheelieNick

Level 9 (74,110 points)

Sep 18, 2026 12:44 PM in response to Xrayspecs

Hi there,

you might need to try this

Set up without data: Turn on your iPhone 18 Pro. Choose Don't Transfer Apps & Data when you reach that screen. Skip signing in with your Apple Account or select set up later. Finish the basic setup so you reach the home screen.

Update the software: Open Settings on the new phone. Tap General, then tap Software Update. Download and install the newest iOS version.

Wipe the phone: Go back to Settings, tap General, and choose Transfer or Reset iPhone. Tap Erase All Content and Settings to factory reset the device.

Transfer your data: Once the phone restarts to the welcome screen, bring your iPhone 17 Pro close again. Follow the Quick Start prompts to transfer your data normally now that both devices match software versions.

river2sea72

Level 1 (12 points)

Oct 9, 2026 8:34 AM in response to WheelieNick

This worked for me (transferring from an iPhone 13 mini to 17e).

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256359990