iPhone, Update Error 1602

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Problem. When trying to install an iPhone update, iTunes reports that, “The iPhone could not be updated. An unknown error occured (1602).”

Solution #1. The following steps may help resolve this issue:

1. Disconnect the iPhone from the computer.
2. Connect it again.
3. A message from iTunes should appear on the screen stating something like, “A new iPhone software version (1.1.4) is available for the iPhone “your iPhone name”. Would you like to install it now?”
4. Click on the “Don’t Install” button to skip the installation.
5. Synchronize the iPhone.
6. Disconnect the iPhone from the computer.
7. Connect the iPhone to the computer and this time when prompted, choose to install the update.
8. The phone should restart and work fine. An error message may appear stating, “The iPhone “your iPhone name” cannot be used with iTunes because the SIM card is PIN locked or not installed. You must enter your SIM PIN or insert your SIM card into your iPhone in order to activate it.” If this message appears, try disconnecting the phone from the computer and then connecting it again.

Solution #2 – Simple Reset. If the above doesn’t work, it may be necessary to reset the unit by pressing the power and home key at the same time. Then try the above steps again.

Solution #3 – Advanced Reset. If a simple reset doesn’t work, it may be necessary to reset data using this procedure:

1. Synchronize iPhone. This also creates a backup of the notes and other items that don’t get synchronized anywhere else.
2. Go to Settings, General, Erase All Content and Settings
3. Once complete, connect the phone and synchronize with iTunes
4. Choose to restore from the recent backup to recover your notes, SMS history, and iPhone settings as well as data that is normally synchronized. Your problems may be gone.

Solution #4 – Erase and Restore to Factory Default Settings. If the advanced reset doesn’t work, it may be necessary to reset the phone back to the factory default settings. You will loose notes, SMS history, saved wireless networking information, and other personalized iPhone settings in the process. Here are the steps to reset the phone to factory default settings.

1. Synchronize iPhone. This also creates a backup of the notes and other items that don’t get synchronized anywhere else.
2. Go to Settings, General, Erase All Content and Settings
3. Once complete, connect the phone and synchronize with iTunes
4. Choose NOT to restore from the recent backup. As you continue, you will lose notes, SMS history, and iPhone settings as well as data that is normally synchronized. However, corrupted system files (such as the internal camera roll files) will be replaced with fresh non-corrupted versions and everything should work.

There is a help forum discussion on the Apple website about this issue.