Fixing problems with Outlook syncing to the iPhone

Several users have reported problems synchronizing data in Outlook 2003 and 2007 with the iPhone — particularly calendar information. The problem can generally be resolved by one of the following:

1. Make sure that the iTunes sync add-in is enabled in Outlook, as described in Knowledge Base document #305845.

2. If data still will not synchronize, export your Outlook calendar (or other data that is failing to sync) as a .pst file by going to the File menu, selecting Import and Export…, choosing Export to a file then following the steps to save as .pst. This will provide a backup of your current calendar.

Next, delete all of your Outlook Calendar data via these steps (from Microsoft’s online support):

1. In the Navigation Pane, click Calendar.
2. On the View menu, point to Arrange By, point to Current View, and then click By Category.
3. Click Categories: (none), and then press CTRL+A.
4. All items in the list should now be selected.
5. Press Delete.

Now, try creating a single event in Outlook and syncing — the process should complete successfully. If it does, there was a problematic or corrupt entry in your Outlook calendar. Try manually re-adding items one at a time or in groups until you isolate the problematic data.

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