How do I fix iPhone 16e not syncing with iTunes over Wi-Fi on Windows?

I have version 12.13.7.1 of iTunes for Windows. I have two 16e running 18.5. They have been synced and backed up with a USB cable. The "sync with WiFi" button is selected for both phones. Neither will connect via WiFi to the computer, even when on a charger. They only connect by cable. Any suggestion would be appreciated.


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: iphone not syncing with itunes on wifi

iPhone 16e, iOS 18

Posted on Jul 13, 2025 06:51 AM

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6 replies

Jul 14, 2025 11:34 AM in response to KevinAP

KevinAP wrote:

The "sync with WiFi" button is selected for both phones.

On the phone, or in iTunes? You have to turn it on (for each device) in iTunes. See step 1 below.


Neither will connect via WiFi to the computer, even when on a charger.

Do you see any error messages at any time?



After addressing the points above, some things to check:

    1. one iPhone at a time, connect the phone to iTunes via cable and then look (in iTunes) at the Device/Settings/Summary page, for the setting Sync with this iPhone over Wi-Fi. Make sure that the box is ticked (checked). I realise that you have stated that they both have that switched on, but check each one just to be sure. (Note, turning it on for one device does not turn it on for another device. Each one is separate)
    2. ensure that your Wi-Fi is on and that the phone is connected to the Wi-Fi network on the same router as your computer. If you have a Wi-Fi extender, make sure that the phone is connecting to the main Wi-Fi in this first instance, rather than the extender


If that doesn't sort it out:

    • make sure that the phone has a strong Wi-Fi signal. If it doesn't, move the phone closer to the Wi-Fi router
    • check to see whether the phone can connect to something online via the Wi-Fi. This will ensure that the Wi-Fi between the phone and your router is working
      • if the phone is not able to get online, perhaps the Wi-Fi connection between the phone and router needs to be reset. (This seems an unlikely scenario on two separate phones, but if all else fails, try it)
    • try turning off the Sync with this iPhone over Wi-Fi option, and then start the numbered steps above, again


Jul 14, 2025 12:39 PM in response to the fiend

Sync with WiFi is turned on in iTunes. I have tried turning it off (unchecking) and back on again. I clicked "Apply" for each step. The phones have a solid WiFi connection. It is a small apartment and there are no extenders. Only the one network for all devices. I am using iTunes downloaded from Apple.com, iTunes64Setup.


I have no problem connecting with the USB cable. It would be handy if the phone would connect for syncing automatically, but it isn't vital.


Thank you.


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How do I fix iPhone 16e not syncing with iTunes over Wi-Fi on Windows?

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