Can’t sync iPhone 16 with iTunes on Windows 11

Question

Can’t sync iPhone 16 with iTunes on Windows 11

I just got a new iPhone 16 and only some of my music from my old iPhone 13 transfered. When I tried to connect to my laptop (Windows 11), all it does is start charging. I tried connecting via bluetooth and was able to connect to the laptop but iTunes does not see the phone. I've tried using diffrent cords, restarted both the laptop and the phone. I uninstalled iTunes and reinstalled. Tried contacting Apple support but that's a joke! Does anyone know why iTunes does not see the new iPhone?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Using iTunes with a new iPhone 16

iPhone 13, iOS 18

Posted on Aug 8, 2025 01:07 PM

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Answer 1

Phil0124

Level 10

214,231 points

Aug 9, 2025 09:49 AM in response to turingtest2

If Apple Music, Apple TV or the Devices App are installed, iTunes will be restricted in functionality and will not show a connected device.

If any of those apps are installed, you must use the Apple Devices App to sync to the iPhone.

As mentioned, at this point, it’s better to remove the new Apple apps entirely and stick with iTunes.

It may be phased out at some point, but for now, it’s still available, and works better than the separate apps.

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Answer 2

Phil0124

Level 10

214,231 points

Aug 8, 2025 02:04 PM in response to Broosedamoose

It should see the phone.

You might need to click on the small phone icon under the play button first.

Did it request an update at any point?

It may need to update iTunes device firmware to connect to the iPhone.

Bluetooth is not a way to connect with iTunes though.

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Answer 3

Aug 8, 2025 02:43 PM in response to Phil0124

The icon does not even show up. Usually when I would plug in my iPhone 13 the laptop would say it was connected. Now, nothing happens. The iPhone doesn't even ask to trust the computer. I've tried updating everything. I downloaded Apple music and not even that sees the phone. I also dowloaded Apple Devices and still nothing. It should not be this difficult to do. Apple is really pushing me towards Android!

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Answer 4

turingtest2

Level 10

277,711 points

Aug 9, 2025 03:06 AM in response to Broosedamoose

Once any of Apple Music/Devices/TV for Windows are install iTunes becomes limited to managing audiobooks and podcasts. Remove whichever of those three apps you have installed. At this point iTunes should be able to show your music and your devices once again. If needs be see iOS device not showing in iTunes for Windows - Apple Community.

tt2

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Answer 5

Aug 9, 2025 07:31 AM in response to turingtest2

I spoke with Apple support this morning and was told that, because iTunes is being faded out, I have to use Apple Music. In order for the app to see and sync my phone, a subscription is REQUIRED! They are forcing people to subscribe to their app or not use the songs you paid for and own! So I accepted the offer for three months free, synced all my songs and before the trial period ends, I’ll cancel! Screw them! I’m not paying a fee to use music I already paid for on a phone I own! My next upgrade will definitely NOT be an Apple product! I can see why so many people are switching back to Android devices! To **** with Apple!!!

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Answer 6

turingtest2

Level 10

277,711 points

Aug 9, 2025 07:48 AM in response to Broosedamoose

These things are not true. Yes, Apple clearly intends to phase out iTunes in the long term, but right now it is still a perfectly serviceable app. Apple Music for Windows along with Apple Devices for syncing is the intended replacement. The Apple Music subscription service is not required whatever someone in support may have told you.

tt2

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