If you have an Apple device, you might have seen a message that says this accessory may not be supported on iPhone. This often happens when you plug in your iOS device to charge it. It can also appear with other accessories like headphones. Although it can be bothersome, there are ways to fix this problem and make sure your iPhone and the accessory work well together. Follow this guide to get the error fixed.
How to Fix This Accessory May Not Be Supported on iPhone
Using accessories that are not suitable for your Apple device can lead to errors caused by compatibility issues. In this guide, we will delve into the reasons behind these errors and provide you with simple methods to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.
Quick Answer
To fix this accessory may not be supported on iPhone, enable USB accessories by following these steps:
1. In iPhone Settings, tap on Face ID & Passcode.
2. Scroll down and toggle on USB Accessories.
What Does This Accessory May Not Be Supported Means?
There can be a few reasons that you might see the pop-up saying this accessory may not be supported by the device, or something similar. Here are some potential causes for this error:
- Defective or Non-MFi-Approved Item
- Broken or Outdated Operating System
- Incompatible Accessories
- Filthy or Broken Lightning Port
- Outdated Accessories
Anyone who uses an iPhone can experience this issue, so there’s no need to worry. Just follow the methods discussed below:
Method 1: Basic Troubleshooting Methods
Before we move into more complex methods to resolve this issue, let’s check out some of the basic troubleshooting methods that will help you get rid of it without wasting any time.
1A. Restart iPhone
You can fix this accessory not supported charger issue if you opt for this method. Temporary bugs and issues are resolved when you restart your iPhone, and your device gets a new start. To discover how to do so, read our How to Restart iPhone X guide.
1B. Force Restart iPhone
Force restarting your iPhone could also help you resolve the accessory not supported issue. So, try this method by reading our How to Force Restart iPhone X.
1C. Unplug and Reconnect Device
This is another basic fix that you can try when this accessory may not be supported on iPad pops up. It involves unplugging and reconnecting the accessory.
Pull the device out of the device’s Lightning port after tapping the Dismiss button to dismiss the alert. Check to see if the alert still shows after plugging it back in.
Method 2: Clean Charging Port
Check the end of the accessory that connects to the Lightning port for any discoloration or fraying, as this may prompt an unsupported message. Additionally, inspect the USB end of the accessory for dirt, lint, or debris.
If the issue persists, examine the Lightning connector on your iPhone for any dirt or debris using a flashlight. Clean the port or accessories using an anti-static brush or an old toothbrush if they appear dirty or clogged.
Also Read: How to Clean iPhone Charging Port with Alcohol
Method 3: Try Another Accessory
To identify the problem, test the accessory, such as a charging cord, on another iPhone. If it works, the issue lies with the cable or accessory, bringing relief to your iPhone. However, if different cords or accessories fail on your iPhone, there is likely a problem causing the accessory may not be supported error.
Method 4: Change Adapter
The accessory may not be supported on iPhone or iPad error can occur if your accessories are damaged. Make sure your accessories are in good condition, especially the connectors, to ensure a strong connection. You can also try using a different accessory to charge your device. If it charges successfully, then the problem lies with the current accessory. To fix this issue, you can consider buying a new charger or try out some suggested solutions.
Method 5: Get MFi-Certified Accessories
To avoid compatibility issues and potential damage to your iPhone, use MFi-certified accessories and charging cables that are designed according to Apple’s guidelines. Look for the distinctive MFi badge on the packaging to ensure authenticity.
Be cautious of suspiciously cheap accessories, as they are likely to be fake. It’s recommended to use the original cable that came with your iPhone whenever possible to prevent charging problems. If needed, consider purchasing alternative charging cables, keeping in mind their potential for brittleness and frequent fraying.
Method 6: Enable USB Accessories
If you keep getting this error multiple times when you try to connect it to any accessory then you can try the method to enable USB accessories for settings. Follow the steps below to solve this accessory may not be supported on iPhone issue:
1. Open Settings on your iPhone and tap on Face ID & Passcode.
2. Then, scroll down and toggle on USB Accessories.
Also Read: What Causes Loose Charging Port?
Method 7: Update iOS
When you come across this accessory may not be a supported issue, ensure that your device is up to date. If not, upgrade your iPhone to the most recent version so that you can remove any bugs, spyware, errors, or other kinks that could be causing this issue.
To upgrade your iPhone, read and adhere to the instructions below:
Note: Make sure you have a strong internet connection before updating your iPhone.
1. Open the iPhone Settings app and choose General from the menu.
2. Next, tap on the Software Update option.
3. Tap on the Download and Install option.
Note: If a message appears asking you to temporarily remove apps because iOS needs more space for the update, tap on Continue or Cancel.
4A. If you want the update to occur immediately, tap on the Install option.
4B. Or, if you tap on Install Tonight and plug your iOS device into power before you sleep, your device will be updated automatically overnight.
Note: You are also given the option to install the software later by choosing to Remind Me Later.
Method 8: Reset iPhone Settings
Due to conflicting settings, your iPhone could occasionally be unable to charge or connect to external devices. Resetting all iPhone settings is a dependable technique to solve this issue without erasing any data. By doing this, you reset all of your settings to their initial state. After that, your iPhone should function flawlessly with your charging cord and other accessories. Follow the steps below to reset all settings:
1. Launch Settings and tap on the General option.
2. Tap on the Transfer or Reset iPhone option.
3. Tap on Reset.
4. Tap on Reset All Settings.
Method 9: Perform DFU Restore
The Device Firmware Update (DFU) mode is similar to the recovery mode on Mac. If you execute a DFU reset, it will erase all the data on your iPhone or iPad. Hence, ensure to back up your iPhone. Performing a DFU reset will eliminate all the software problems, which include this accessory may not be supported alert on your device if it was part of some software error. Follow the steps below to put an iPhone in DFU mode:
1. Use a Lightning to USB cord to link your iPhone to a Mac or PC.
2. Push the Volume Up button, then let go.
3. Press and then let go of the Volume Down button right away.
4. The Side button must now be pressed and held for 10 seconds. The display will turn off.
5. Hold the Side button down while pressing and holding the Volume Down button for 5 seconds.
6. Release the Side button after five seconds, but keep holding the Volume Down button.
7. For another 10 seconds, keep pressing the Volume Down button. The screen of your iPhone is blank throughout.
8. When you get a popup in Finder or iTunes that reads, Your Mac has detected an iPhone in recovery mode, release the Volume Down button. This iPhone needs to be restored before it can be used.
9. Now click Restore iPhone after selecting OK in the pop-up.
Note: If the Apple logo appears or your iPhone restarts, one of the procedures was not completed properly. In this situation, carefully study the steps and repeat them.
Method 10: Contact Apple Support
You’ll need to get in touch with Apple Support if none of the aforementioned fixes worked for you. Apple provides online support with articles in addition to live service from their corporate locations. Visit the iPhone Support page to get in touch with Apple customer service.
We hope that the article has helped you resolve the accessory may not be supported on iPhone error. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please feel free to leave them in the comments section. Our team of experts will be happy to help and provide solutions.
