AimerLab FixMate is a desktop utility for Windows and Mac that repairs system problems on Apple mobile devices running iOS, iPadOS or tvOS. It reinstalls the device’s operating system from the computer to get an iPhone, iPad or Apple TV out of a stuck or broken state. Entering and leaving recovery mode is free; the system repair function requires a paid license.
Problems FixMate targets
FixMate targets software faults that stop a device from starting or working normally. They fall into a few groups:
- Stuck modes: a device that stays in recovery mode or DFU mode, shows a spinning circle or white Apple logo, or hangs while updating iCloud settings or restoring from iCloud.
- Screen faults: white, black, blue or yellow screens, a frozen display and ghost touch.
- System bugs: boot loops, constant restarts, a device that will not turn on, the “iPhone is Disabled” message, freezing apps and an update stuck on verification.
- Update and restore errors: failed updates, a device stuck on the restore screen, updates that cannot be checked for or installed, and iTunes errors.
How a system repair works
The user connects the device to the computer by USB. When AimerLab FixMate recognizes it, the program reads and displays the model and the installed system version. It then lists the firmware versions available to install on the device. The user picks one, and FixMate downloads the matching firmware package before writing it to the device.
The user can import a firmware file already saved on the computer instead of downloading it. If the download inside the program fails, FixMate offers a link that fetches the same package through the web browser. The device has to stay connected for the whole process, since unplugging it mid-write can corrupt the data.
Standard Repair
Standard Repair is the first option to try. It reinstalls the system while keeping the data on the device. It covers the common stuck-screen, logo and update problems listed above. After it finishes, the device asks for its passcode as usual, because the user’s settings and content are still in place.
Deep Repair
Deep Repair is meant for cases where Standard Repair does not bring the device back. It restores the device to factory settings, which erases all data and settings. FixMate shows a warning before it starts and asks for confirmation. This allows the user to back up the device first if it is still usable. Once it completes, the device starts fresh and needs no passcode.
One-click recovery mode
Separate from the repair function, FixMate has buttons to put a connected device into recovery mode and to take it out again. Recovery mode is the state in which a device shows the “connect to computer” screen and accepts a restore or update. Entering this mode manually requires a model-specific button sequence. On an iPhone 8 or later, the user must first enter the passcode on the phone to trust the computer.
If the automatic switch does not work, FixMate shows the manual button steps for that device. The exit button reboots a device that is stuck in recovery mode back into its normal system, usually within seconds. Both functions are free in FixMate for all users, with no license needed.
Free use and the license
The free download of AimerLab FixMate includes only the recovery mode controls. Fixing iOS system issues through Standard Repair or Deep Repair requires buying a plan. The user pastes a purchased license key into the program’s Register tab. The program checks the key and unlocks the full feature set in the same installation.
