How do I reinstall macOS on a MacBook connected via cable?

If you mean the MacBook Neo, the important distinction is that the iPhone connected by cable is not what .

The MacBook Neo uses Apple silicon, so you can reinstall macOS directly from macOS Recovery.

Apple states that reinstalling macOS from Recovery can preserve your existing files and user settings, provided you do not erase the internal drive first.

On the MacBook Neo:

1. Shut down the Mac.
2. Press and hold the power button until you see the startup options and Options.
3. Select Options → Continue.
4. Choose Reinstall macOS.
5. Follow the onscreen instructions.

You will need an internet connection during the reinstallation.

A wired network connection can be used if available; the iPhone's USB connection itself isn't the macOS installer

Important: Do not open Disk Utility and erase “Macintosh HD” if your intention is simply to reinstall macOS while keeping your files. Erasing the disk deletes the data on it.

If what you actually mean is “Can I use my iPhone, connected by USB cable, to provide the internet connection to the MacBook Neo while I reinstall macOS?”, that's a different question—and I can walk you through that specifically.

Hi,

I think you can't install macOS on MacBook Neo via iPhone tethering connection, since Apple doesn't support it.

Try to connect public WiFi such as Starbucks or Macdonald connection or your local AppleStore Genius Bar to ask for installing macOS on your MacBook Neo.

Based solely on the experience of this individual who tried to using an iPhone as their internet connection

I would be hesitant to attempts doing this

macOS 26.6+ updates over cellular hotspot blocked by software update policy

There are a lot of technical details so in sort, you and try but you may or may not be disappointed

If you mean the MacBook Neo, the important distinction is that the iPhone connected by cable is not what .

The MacBook Neo uses Apple silicon, so you can reinstall macOS directly from macOS Recovery.

Apple states that reinstalling macOS from Recovery can preserve your existing files and user settings, provided you do not erase the internal drive first.

On the MacBook Neo:

1. Shut down the Mac.
2. Press and hold the power button until you see the startup options and Options.
3. Select Options → Continue.
4. Choose Reinstall macOS.
5. Follow the onscreen instructions.

You will need an internet connection during the reinstallation.

A wired network connection can be used if available; the iPhone's USB connection itself isn't the macOS installer

Important: Do not open Disk Utility and erase “Macintosh HD” if your intention is simply to reinstall macOS while keeping your files. Erasing the disk deletes the data on it.

If what you actually mean is “Can I use my iPhone, connected by USB cable, to provide the internet connection to the MacBook Neo while I reinstall macOS?”, that's a different question—and I can walk you through that specifically.