[FIX] iTunes cannot Read the Contents of the iPhone

Recently, it was reported that there is a serious issue related to iTunes. After connecting the iPhone to the computer, the users receive the “iTunes cannot read the contents of the iPhone” message. It seems that you are also facing the same issue with the version of iTunes and iPhone that you are using.

A few iPhone users suggest that formating and then restoring the device is the ultimate solution. No, absolutely not. You don’t have to remove all the system settings and internal data to fix the issue. There are other effective solutions. But, first, you must know the reasons – Corrupted and outdated iTunes, broken lightning cable, jailbroken iOS devices and many more.

Effective Methods to Fix the Issue

Apple discontinued the iTunes service long ago. So, whatever the last version was, make sure that it is installed on your computer. In addition to that, always keep an additional lightning USB cable for emergency purposes.

Method 1: Reinstallation of iTunes

As mentioned above, there is no latest version of iTunes available. If you are using the outdated version, remove the app from your computer. From various third-party websites, you will get the final version of iTunes. Download the setup file, and install it. After successful installation, run iTunes and connect your iPhone with the help of a lightning USB cable. Hopefully, you will not face the error message now. The procedure will be the same to fix the corrupted iTunes.

Method 2: Alter the Name of iTunes Library

It seems that you have done an experiment and are about to pay the price. All the applications in your iPhone have certain limitations. An iOS user, you need to follow them. The concept of jailbreaking is not at all ethical, thus the “iTunes cannot read the contents of the iPhone” error message is appearing when you connect the device.

Actually, some iOS system files are being modified by root. So, you need to alter the name. Open iFile, and try to access the iTunes folder by going through all the sub-folders. You will see a bunch of files that are related to iTunes. Rename iTunes DB, Control, prefs. Close the window and re-attach the device once again to your computer.

Method 3: A Third-party Alternative

There are several alternatives for backing up all the iPhone data when you witness an “iTunes cannot read the contents of the iPhone” error message. Research and find out a good application that is compatible with your iPhone. Make sure you read all the instructions from the desired website before installing. If a backup customization option is present, on the first attempts try to back up photos, videos and text messages.

Method 4: Replace the Broken Cable

For obvious reasons, the lightning cable may be broken or torn. Previously, you were instructed to keep an extra cable, remember? Now, it will come in handy. Keep aside the existing cable and try out the new one that is already with you. If the “iTunes cannot read the contents of the iPhone” error message is taking place due to the broken cable, then it will not show up again.

Method 5: Factory Reset

Detach the iPhone from the computer. Navigate to the Settings and choose General. Scroll down to find Reset. Tap on it, and you will find another “Erase all content and settings” option. The Apple logo will appear. Sit back and wait until the process completes. When the restoration is complete, follow the instructions and set up the device. After that, check whether the error message is still appearing or not.

Avoid Jailbreaking

It seems that your iPhone is running out of memory. As you know that there is no facility for inserting an external memory card, starting from SMS to audio and video, all the files are stored in the internal memory. A few people came up with the idea of jailbreaking. Jailbreaking is the concept of uninstalling those apps that come preloaded with the iPhone and other iOS devices.

It is unethical and Apple doesn’t give official permission to do that. So, you will never jailbreak your device. Leaving aside the “iTunes cannot read the contents of the iPhone” error message, there are several other complications that can take place.

Let’s say you have successfully jailbroken your device, and it is running well. But, in case any hardware issue takes place, take the device to the official service center. And, when the experts detect that your device is jailbroken, they will refuse to provide any service.