Sync Not Available in iTunes

On this page

Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

If 'Sync Not Available' appears in iTunes, check your device connection, update iTunes and iOS, and ensure you're using a compatible cable. If the issue persists, try resetting your device or checking for software conflicts.

Confirm the symptom

'Sync Not Available' message appears in iTunes
Device is connected but not recognized for syncing
Sync button is grayed out or missing in iTunes

Tools and prep

Computer with iTunes installed
USB cable compatible with your iOS device
iOS device (iPhone, iPad, or iPod)
Stable internet connection for updates
Admin access to your computer

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check Device Connection
Do: Connect your iOS device to the computer using a different USB cable and port.
Observe: iTunes recognizes your device and displays the sync option.
Means: The issue may be with the cable or USB port.
Next: If recognized, proceed to Step 2. If not, try another cable or port.
Update iTunes and iOS
Do: Update iTunes to the latest version and ensure your iOS device is running the latest software.
Observe: iTunes and iOS are updated without errors.
Means: Outdated software can prevent syncing.
Next: If updated, proceed to Step 3. If errors occur, restart your computer and device.
Trust This Computer
Do: When prompted on your iOS device, tap 'Trust' to allow the computer to access your device.
Observe: The 'Trust' prompt appears and is confirmed.
Means: Your device is not trusted by the computer.
Next: If trusted, proceed to Step 4. If no prompt appears, restart your device and reconnect.
Check Sync Settings
Do: In iTunes, click on your device and go to the Summary tab. Ensure 'Sync with this [device] over Wi-Fi' is unchecked if using a cable.
Observe: Sync settings are correctly configured for your connection method.
Means: Incorrect sync settings can prevent syncing.
Next: If settings are correct, proceed to Step 5. If not, adjust settings and try syncing again.
Reset Sync Data
Do: In iTunes, click on your device and go to the Summary tab. Click 'Restore [device]' to reset it to factory settings.
Observe: Your device is restored and recognized by iTunes for syncing.
Means: Corrupted sync data may be causing the issue.
Next: If restored, set up your device as new or from backup and try syncing again.
Check for Conflicts
Do: Close other applications that may interfere with iTunes, such as cloud storage apps or security software.
Observe: iTunes functions without interference.
Means: Third-party software may be blocking iTunes.
Next: If no conflicts are found, proceed to Step 7. If conflicts are resolved, try syncing again.
Create New iTunes Library
Do: Hold the Shift key (Windows) or Option key (Mac) while opening iTunes to create a new library.
Observe: A new iTunes library is created and your device is recognized.
Means: A corrupted iTunes library may be causing the issue.
Next: If recognized, add your media to the new library and try syncing again.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Outdated iTunes or iOS Software Older versions may lack compatibility with newer devices or features.	Common	Easy	Software update
Faulty USB Cable or Port Damaged cables or ports can prevent proper communication between devices.	Common	Easy	USB cable
Device Not Trusted by Computer iOS devices must be explicitly trusted to allow syncing.	Common	Easy	None
Incorrect Sync Settings Misconfigured settings can prevent syncing even when the device is connected.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Corrupted iTunes Library A damaged iTunes library file can cause syncing issues.	Sometimes	Medium	iTunes library backup
Third-Party Software Conflicts Some applications can interfere with iTunes functionality.	Sometimes	Easy–Medium	None
Corrupted Sync Data on Device Sync data corruption can prevent iTunes from recognizing the device for syncing.	Rare	Medium	iOS device backup

Parts matching

Common parts or tools that may be needed to resolve 'Sync Not Available' in iTunes include:

USB cable compatible with your iOS device
Latest version of iTunes software
iOS device backup (if restoring)
Computer with stable internet connection
Admin access to your computer for updates

Always back up your device before performing a restore or major software update to prevent data loss.

When to call a professional

'Sync Not Available' persists after trying all troubleshooting steps
Your device is not recognized by any computer
You experience data loss or corruption after attempting a restore
iTunes crashes repeatedly when connecting your device
You're unsure about performing a factory reset or creating a new library

FAQ

Why is the sync button grayed out in iTunes?

The sync button may be grayed out if your device is not properly connected, not trusted by the computer, or if incorrect sync settings are configured in iTunes.

Can a third-party USB cable cause sync issues?

Yes, a faulty or non-compatible USB cable can prevent your device from syncing with iTunes. Always use a certified Apple cable for best results.

Do I need to update my iOS device to sync with iTunes?

Yes, ensuring your iOS device is updated to the latest version can resolve compatibility issues and enable syncing with iTunes.

What should I do if iTunes crashes when I connect my device?

Try updating iTunes, using a different USB cable or port, and closing other applications that may interfere. If the issue persists, create a new iTunes library or contact Apple Support.

How do I create a new iTunes library?

Hold the Shift key (Windows) or Option key (Mac) while opening iTunes to create a new library. This can resolve issues caused by a corrupted library file.