Why Your iPhone or iPad Won’t Update (And What You Can Do)
Updating your iPhone or iPad helps keep your device secure, fast, and compatible with the latest apps. To install an update successfully, your device needs to support the software, have a reliable internet connection, and enough available storage. Keeping your device plugged into power during the update is also strongly recommended.
Common Reasons Software Updates Fail
If your update won’t install, it’s usually due to one of the following:
- Your device isn’t supported by the newest iOS or iPadOS version
- There isn’t enough free storage available
- The download is taking an unusually long time
- Your device can’t connect to Apple’s update servers
- The update process was interrupted or didn’t finish
Step 1: Confirm Your Device Is Compatible
Start by identifying your device model:
Settings > General > About
Once you know your model, make sure it supports the most recent version of iOS or iPadOS available to it. Even if your device can’t run the newest release, it may still have a smaller update available that improves performance or security.
Step 2: Check Your Available Storage
Software updates require free space to download and install. If storage is limited, your device may attempt to clear temporary data automatically. This process won’t delete personal photos or files.
If more space is still needed:
- Go to Settings > General > Storage
- Remove unused apps, videos, or files
- Restart your device and try the update again
If storage is very limited, updating through a computer can also help.
Step 3: Allow Enough Time for the Download
Update download times vary based on file size and internet speed. Some updates may take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.
Tips for faster downloads:
- Use a strong Wi-Fi connection
- Avoid downloading other content at the same time
- Keep your device unlocked and connected to power
You can continue using your device while the update downloads, and you’ll be notified when it’s ready to install.
Step 4: Fix Network or Server Issues
If your device can’t check for or download an update, try:
- Switching between Wi-Fi and cellular data
- Restarting your router and device
- Trying a different network altogether
If the issue continues, updating your device using a computer may be the most reliable solution.
Step 5: If the Update Gets Stuck or Won’t Finish
Slow progress bars are common during large updates. Make sure your device stays powered on and connected to a charger.
If the update repeatedly fails:
- Go to Settings > General > Storage
- Find the pending update
- Delete it
- Return to Settings > General > Software Update and try again
If the update doesn’t reappear, updating through a computer is recommended.
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