Have you ever plugged in an accessory to your iPhone, only to be met with the frustrating message that “This accessory is not supported by this iPhone”? It’s a common issue, but don’t worry, it’s usually an easy fix. The problem could be due to a variety of reasons such as a dirty or damaged port, an uncertified accessory, or a software glitch. To resolve it, you’ll need to perform some simple troubleshooting steps that we’ll cover in this article.
How to Fix ‘This Accessory Is Not Supported by This iPhone’
Before we dive into the troubleshooting steps, let’s understand what we’re trying to achieve here. We want to ensure that your iPhone recognizes and supports the accessory you’re attempting to use. This could be anything from a charger to a pair of headphones.
Step 1: Check for Dirt or Damage
Inspect the iPhone’s charging port and the accessory’s connector for any dirt, debris, or damage.
Often, a simple cleaning can solve the problem. Use a toothpick or a small, soft-bristled brush to gently remove any debris from the port. Be cautious not to damage the port’s connectors.
Step 2: Try a Different Accessory
Plug in a different accessory to see if the issue is with the accessory itself.
If the new accessory works without error, the problem lies with the original accessory and it may need to be replaced.
Step 3: Ensure the Accessory Is Apple Certified
Check if the accessory is MFi (Made for iPhone) certified.
Non-certified accessories may not be compatible with your iPhone and can cause the error message to appear. Always look for the MFi logo when purchasing new accessories.
Step 4: Update Your iPhone’s Software
Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS.
Outdated software can cause compatibility issues with accessories. To update, go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Step 5: Restart Your iPhone
Sometimes, a simple restart can fix the issue.
To restart your iPhone, hold down the sleep/wake button, then slide to power off. After the device is turned off, hold the sleep/wake button again to turn it back on.
After completing these steps, your accessory should be recognized and supported by your iPhone. If the issue persists, it could be a more serious hardware problem that may require professional repair.
Tips for ‘This Accessory Is Not Supported by This iPhone’
- Always use Apple-certified (MFi) accessories with your iPhone.
- Keep your iPhone’s software updated to avoid compatibility issues.
- Regularly clean your iPhone’s charging port to prevent dirt buildup.
- Avoid forcing connectors into the port, as this can cause damage.
- If an accessory stops working after an iOS update, check with the manufacturer for an updated version that is compatible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does MFi-certified mean?
MFi certification means that the accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPhone and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards.
Can I use non-Apple chargers with my iPhone?
You can, but it’s recommended to use only Apple-certified chargers to avoid potential harm to your device.
What should I do if cleaning the port doesn’t fix the issue?
If cleaning the port doesn’t work, try using a different accessory or updating your iPhone’s software.
Can a software update cause this error message?
Yes, sometimes a software update can cause compatibility issues with certain accessories.
What should I do if none of these steps work?
If none of these steps resolve the issue, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance.
Summary
- Check for dirt or damage in the port and on the accessory.
- Try a different accessory to determine if the issue is with the original one.
- Ensure the accessory is Apple-certified (MFi).
- Update your iPhone’s software to the latest version.
- Restart your iPhone to reset its connections.
Conclusion
Encountering the “This accessory is not supported by this iPhone” message can be annoying, but it’s usually a minor hiccup that’s easily solved. By following the steps we’ve outlined—from checking for dirt and damage, making sure your accessory is certified, updating your software, to simply restarting your iPhone—you should be able to get back to using your device without any interruptions. Remember, prevention is better than cure, so keep your accessories and iPhone clean, and always update to the latest iOS version for the best performance. If all else fails, Apple’s customer support is just a call or visit away. Now you know how to fix this accessory is not supported by this iPhone, no need to panic next time it happens!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.