Keeping your iPhone up to date ensures you get the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements from Apple. Whether you’re installing a major iOS release or a small security update, this guide explains how to update your iPhone safely and easily.
Before You Update Your iPhone
Before starting an update, take a few minutes to prepare:
✅ Check Compatibility
Not all iPhones support the latest iOS versions. To check:
- Go to Settings → General → About
- Note your iPhone model
- Confirm it supports the latest iOS version
✅ Back Up Your iPhone
Backing up prevents data loss if something goes wrong.
iCloud backup
- Go to Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → iCloud Backup
- Tap Back Up Now
Computer backup
- On Mac: Use Finder
- On Windows: Use iTunes
✅ Battery & Storage
- Charge your iPhone to at least 50%
- Connect to Wi‑Fi
- Ensure you have enough free storage
Method 1: Update iPhone Using Settings (Recommended)
This is the easiest and most common way.
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Select Software Update
- Tap Download and Install
- Enter your passcode (if prompted)
- Tap Install Now
Your iPhone will restart automatically once the update is complete.
Method 2: Update iPhone Using a Mac or PC
This method is useful if:
- The update won’t install wirelessly
- Your iPhone is stuck or has limited storage
On Mac (macOS Catalina or later)
- Connect your iPhone to your Mac
- Open Finder
- Select your iPhone
- Click Check for Update
- Choose Download and Update
On Windows or Older Macs
- Connect your iPhone
- Open iTunes
- Select your device
- Click Check for Update
- Click Download and Update
How to Turn On Automatic iPhone Updates
Automatic updates ensure your iPhone installs updates overnight.
- Go to Settings → General → Software Update
- Tap Automatic Updates
- Enable:
- iOS Updates
- Security Responses & System Files
How Long Does an iPhone Update Take?
| Update Type | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Minor update | 10–20 minutes |
| Major iOS update | 30–60 minutes |
| Older devices | Up to 90 minutes |
Download time depends on your internet speed.
Common iPhone Update Problems & Fixes
iPhone Stuck on “Preparing Update”
- Wait at least 15 minutes
- Restart your iPhone
- Try updating using a computer
Not Enough Storage
- Delete unused apps or videos
- Use a computer update
- Enable Offload Unused Apps
Update Failed or Won’t Install
- Restart your device
- Reset network settings
- Try again on a different Wi‑Fi network
What to Do After Updating Your iPhone
After the update:
- Check new features in Settings
- Update apps from the App Store
- Review privacy and notification settings
- Confirm Face ID / Touch ID still works
Is It Safe to Update an iPhone?
Yes. Apple iOS updates:
- Fix security vulnerabilities
- Improve system stability
- Enhance performance Skipping updates may leave your device vulnerable to bugs or security risks.
Final Thoughts
Updating your iPhone is one of the easiest ways to keep it secure and running smoothly. Whether you update wirelessly or using a computer, following the steps above ensures a safe and hassle‑free experience.
Make it a habit to keep automatic updates enabled so your iPhone stays protected without extra effort.
