[SOLUTION] Failed to restore device in recovery mode, libusbrestore error:21 [com.apple.MobileDevice.MobileRestore – 0x15 (21)]
I reset my M1 MacBook Air and got the (!) error, and when trying to restore using Apple Configurator, I got the error `Failed to restore device in recovery mode, libusbrestore error:21 [com.apple.MobileDevice.MobileRestore – 0x15 (21)]`
SOLUTION::: FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS TO EVERY DETAIL ON THIS: How to revive or restore Mac firmware - Apple Support
IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT EACH STEP:
ENTERING DFU MODE
- On the affected Mac, make SURE to plug the USB cable into the port CLOSEST to the screen -- this is the ONLY port that can be recognized for DFU mode.
- On the affected Mac, begin by holding the control+option+leftShift keys and THEN hold the power button. HOLD THESE 4 KEYS FOR 10 SECONDS. After that release everything BUT the power button -- this will enter the device into DFU mode (THE SCREEN WILL APPEAR BLACK IF DONE CORRECTLY)
- On the other Mac that is connected to the affected Mac, open the Apple Configurator application.
- At this point you should see this visual on Apple Configurator:
At this point you should be able to right-click DFU MacBook and click restore. If you see an icon of your Mac device INSTEAD OF THE DFU ICON MENTIONED ABOVE, you DID NOT enter DFU mode correctly, try again with the steps mentioned above.
MacBook Air (M1, 2020)