If you have received the error message ‘the iPhone could not be synced because the sync session failed to start’ in iOS 12, you might be wondering why.
As with all Apple devices, syncing is how you backup your music, photos, contacts and all other data you store on your device.
Whilst syncing is an incredibly simple process, it can sometimes encounter problems along the way.
Of course, the key is to find out what has caused this issue and find the solution to fix it.
So, with that in mind, we’re going to tell you what to do if you encounter ‘the iPhone could not be synced because the sync session failed to start’ in iOS 12.
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Why Does iPhone Say Sync Session Failed to Start in iOS 12?
If you are getting this message when trying you sync your iPhone, it could be for several reasons.
The most common, however, is that applications are running in the background which prevent your iPhone from syncing.
Another factor could be that your iTunes version is outdated. Many of us forget to update iTunes as regularly as we should, which can prevent synchronisation of your devices.
You may also run into this error if you are using a USB cable, this is incompatible with your iPhone – an issue that can come and go intermittently with Apple devices.
Now we know what can cause issues with syncing your iPhone, let’s find out how to fix it.
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How to Fix Error Message iPhone Sync Session Failed on iOS 12
Before trying any of the following fixes, make sure that your USB cable is not faulty.
You can also close and reopen iTunes and try the sync again. Often this issue is resolved through restarting iTunes.
Still seeing the error message ‘iPhone could not be synced because the sync session failed to start’? This might be due to applications running in the background.
To fix this issue, you will need to close all open applications on your iPhone.
You can do this by unlocking your iPhone and going to your ‘Home’ screen. Next, swipe upwards and force close all your open applications.
Next, plug in your iPhone and try to sync again.
If the issue isn’t resolved, you might need to update iTunes.
Update iTunes to Fix iPhone Sync Failure on iOS 12
If you haven’t updated iTunes to the latest version, it might be preventing you from syncing your iPhone.
You can fix this easily by checking which software version you currently have installed on your computer.
- First, open iTunes on your computer.
- Next, navigate to the ‘Help’ tab on the menu along the top bar.
- Select ‘Check for updates.’
- iTunes will now tell you if there are updates available. If there are, follow the on-screen instructions and complete the installation.
- Once completed, connect your iPhone and sync again.
How to Avoid iPhone Sync Error Message in iOS 12
To avoid error messages when syncing your iPhone in the future, make sure you prepare your devices before synchronisation.
This includes closing all background apps on your iPhone to ensure that running apps won’t interfere with the syncing process.
You can also regularly check iTunes for updates so that the program is always functioning with the latest software.
Of course, another factor that causes these issues is faulty USB cables. Many of us don’t realise when our cables are getting worn or causing loose connections. So, check your USB cables are working correctly and connect to your charging port without any issues.
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