Is your iPhone not updating? The definitive solution to the problem

Every time Apple releases a new version of iOS, millions of users rush to update their iPhones to enjoy the latest features and, more importantly, critical security patches. However, for a significant number of people, this process turns into a nightmare of error messages, endless downloads, and failed updates.

If your iPhone refuses to update, it's critical to understand the root cause so you can apply the correct solution. Below, we break down the most common reasons why your device may be failing and provide a step-by-step guide to overcome the obstacle.

Before attempting any solutions, identify which of these scenarios applies to your situation.

1. Your device is not supported

It's the simplest but often overlooked reason. With each new version of iOS, Apple drops support for older models.

• How to check: Search Apple's official website for a list of devices compatible with the latest version of iOS. If your iPhone isn't on the list, you won't be able to update.

2. You don't have enough storage space

iOS updates can be very large (several gigabytes). If your iPhone is full of photos, videos, and apps, the download won't complete.

• How to check: Go to Settings > General > Storage on iPhone. The system will show you how much free space you have left. You'll need at least 5-7 GB free for a major update.

3. Your internet connection is unstable

An update requires a stable and, preferably, fast internet connection. If you're using a slow, congested, or constantly disconnecting Wi-Fi network, the download will fail.

• The common mistake: Trying to update using cellular data. Apple generally requires a Wi-Fi connection for major updates.

4. Apple's servers are overloaded

Right after a major release, millions of people try to download the update at the same time. This can overload Apple's servers, resulting in the message "Unable to check for an update" or "There was a problem downloading the software."

• The solution: Just be patient. Try again a few hours later or the next day, when traffic has eased.

5. The downloaded update is corrupted

Sometimes the download completes, but the file is corrupted due to a connection interruption. When the iPhone attempts to install it, the process fails.

"A corrupt update file is one of the most frustrating causes. The phone thinks it has the update, but can't install it, resulting in an error loop," explains an Apple-certified technician.

If you have already diagnosed the problem, follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Free up space (if necessary)

• Go to Settings > General > Storage on iPhone. The system will give you recommendations for freeing up space, such as "Uninstall Unused Apps."
• Manually delete photos, videos, or large files that you already have backed up to iCloud or on your computer.

Step 2: Ensure a good Wi-Fi connection

• Connect to a fast, stable Wi-Fi network. Avoid public networks.
• Restart your router if your connection is slow.
• To speed up the download, avoid using the internet for other things (such as streaming video) while your iPhone is updating.

Step 3: Remove the corrupted update (if you suspect this is the problem)

• Go to Settings > General > Storage on iPhone.
• Look for a file named “iOS Update” or something similar in the list of apps.
• Tap it and select “Delete Update.”
• Now, go back to Settings > General > Software Update to try downloading it again.

If all else fails, the most reliable method is to use a computer. This avoids issues with iPhone storage and unstable Wi-Fi connections.

• If you're using a Mac (with macOS Catalina or later):
• Connect your iPhone to your Mac with a USB cable.
• Open Finder.
• Select your iPhone in the sidebar.
• Go to the General tab and click “Check for Update.”
• If you're using a Windows PC or an older Mac:
• Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes or the Apple Devices app.
• Connect your iPhone to your PC.
• Open iTunes/Apple Devices and select your iPhone.
• Go to the Summary tab and click “Check for Update.”

This method downloads the update to your computer and then installs it on your iPhone, making it a much more stable and secure process. If the problem persists, Apple recommends checking third-party security software or trying another certified USB cable.