3uTools is a popular iOS device manager and toolkit that has been available for Windows for several years. Recently, 3uTools launched a Mac version so Apple device owners can use it right on their Macs. In this article, we'll discuss the key features of 3uTools for Mac and how to use it to manage your iPhone or iPad.
Introduction to 3uTools
For those unfamiliar, 3uTools is an all-in-one manager for iPhones, iPads and iPods. It allows you to manage apps, photos, music, videos, contacts, messages and more. Key highlights include:
- Install and uninstall apps without needing the App Store
- Transfer media and files between iOS devices and Mac/PC
- Backup and restore device data like contacts, messages, etc.
- Jailbreak iOS devices (at your own risk)
- Access iOS files and folders directly
- Mirror device screens via AirPlay
- Convert media files and download online content
The Windows version has been popular for providing iPhone management without needing iTunes. The new Mac release brings the same powerful toolkit to Apple device owners on macOS.
Downloading and Installing 3uTools on Mac
You can download 3uTools for Mac from the official website 3u.com. The download is free and only about 20MB. Once downloaded, open the DMG file and drag the 3uTools app into Applications. Launch 3uTools and it will guide you through allowing accessibility access and notifications which are required for some features.
Tools Name: 3uTools for iOS
- File Size: 26.8MB
- Official Website: 3u.com
- Version: V213 / 2023-07-27
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Download 3uTools for Windows
- Tools Name: 3uTools for Windows
- File Size: 202.08MB
- Official Website: 3u.com
- Version: V3.05 / 2023-09-23
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Connecting your iPhone or iPad via USB, 3uTools will automatically detect the device. You may need to input your passcode on the iOS device the first time connecting.
Key Features of 3uTools
Here are some of the main features available in 3uTools for Mac:
App Manager - Install and uninstall iOS apps easily. You can install IPA package files or download apps through 3uTools. This works great for sideloading apps not available on the App Store.
Data Manager - Access, export and backup your iOS device's photos, videos, contacts, messages, notes, bookmarks and more. You can also transfer files and data between iOS devices.
Flash & JB - For advanced users, 3uTools can flash firmware files to iOS devices and perform untethered jailbreaks. Note that jailbreaking comes with risks.
AirPlay & Screenshot - Use AirPlay mirroring to wirelessly cast your iOS device screen to a Mac. Also take screenshots or screen recordings.
Flashlight - Use your device's LED flash as a flashlight right from 3uTools.
Other Tools - 3uTools provides additional ways to manage your device like cleaning up junk files, monitoring battery health stats, viewing device info, accessing file systems, and more.
Managing iOS Devices with 3uTools
Here are some examples of how to use 3uTools to manage and backup your iPhone or iPad:
- To backup contacts, go to Data Manager > Contacts and export to Mac.
- To save text messages, go to Data Manager > Messages and export conversations as PDFs.
- To transfer photos without compression, go to Data Manager > Photos and save albums to your Mac.
- To install apps not on the App Store, go to App Manager > Install > Install from Computer and select an IPA file.
- To jailbreak, go to Flash & JB > Jailbreak. Follow the on-screen instructions to jailbreak the device.
If you run into any issues using 3uTools, you can troubleshoot by reinstalling the app, updating drivers, using a different USB cable, or contacting customer support.
Is 3uTools Safe for Your Device?
When using tools that access deep system functions of iOS, it's normal to have some security concerns. 3uTools claims to use secure encryption standards to keep your data safe while interacting with iOS. User's data is not collected or stored by 3uTools. As with any app, it's smart to only download 3uTools from official sources. Also be cautious using features like jailbreaking which may bypass certain iOS protections.
Fixing 3uTools Error Code 16
Some users report getting a "16" error in 3uTools which fails to recognize the connected iOS device. Typically this occurs because the Apple Mobile Device USB driver is not properly installed. To fix error 16, try reinstalling 3uTools, uninstalling and reinstalling iTunes/Apple Mobile Device driver, using a different USB cable, or switching USB ports. Updating to the latest version of 3uTools, iOS, iTunes, and macOS can also help resolve the issue.
Conclusion
For iOS power users on Mac, 3uTools provides an advanced toolbox for managing apps, data, media and more without iTunes. Key highlights include easy app sideloading, data and backup tools, AirPlay mirroring, and jailbreaking capability. Just be cautious of risks with features that modify deep iOS functionality. Overall 3uTools for Mac brings welcome enhancements for iPhone and iPad users who want greater control and customization.
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