To update an iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update, then download and install the latest iOS.
Keeping iOS current gives you new features, stability fixes, and timely security patches. This guide shows how to update an iPhone in minutes, with safe prep, step-by-step methods, and fixes if something gets in the way. You’ll also see when to use a computer, what “Background Security Improvements” mean, and how to set automatic updates so you don’t have to think about it again.
How To Update An iPhone Safely: Quick Start
Before you tap “Download and Install,” spend a minute on prep. A tiny setup check saves time and keeps your data safe.
- Battery or power: Plug in, or have at least 50% charge.
- Wi-Fi: Connect to a stable network (updates are large).
- Storage: Aim for ~6–10 GB free for a smooth install.
- Backup (strongly recommended): iCloud or a computer backup gives you a safety net.
At-A-Glance Methods
Pick the route that fits your situation—on the phone, on a computer, or automatically overnight.
| Method | Best For | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| On-Device (Wi-Fi) | Most people | Settings > General > Software Update > Download and Install |
| Automatic Updates | Hands-off installs | Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates |
| Background Security Improvements | Quick security fixes | Enabled in Settings > Privacy & Security > Background Security Improvements |
| Mac (Finder) | No Wi-Fi or low space | Connect iPhone > open Finder > select iPhone > Check for Update |
| Windows (iTunes) | No Wi-Fi or low space | Install iTunes > connect iPhone > Summary > Check for Update |
| Carrier Settings | Network features | Prompts appear in Settings when carriers push updates |
| System Files | Feature tweaks | Automatic updates to system files without changing iOS version |
| Manual Re-Try | Error messages | Delete the failed update > download again |
Back Up First (iCloud Or Computer)
A backup takes a few taps and protects your photos, messages, and settings if something goes sideways. iCloud is easy; a computer backup is fastest for large data sets or slow internet.
iCloud Backup
- Open Settings on iPhone.
- Tap your Apple ID name > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
- Turn on Back Up This iPhone, then tap Back Up Now.
Computer Backup (Finder Or iTunes)
- Connect iPhone to your Mac (Finder) or Windows PC (iTunes).
- Trust the computer if prompted. In Finder or iTunes, select your iPhone.
- Choose Back Up Now. Encrypt the backup if you want passwords and Health data included.
Want the official walk-throughs? Apple’s guides for how to back up your iPhone and for update steps and automatic updates lay out every screen you’ll see.
Update On The Phone (The Fast Way)
This is the most direct path and works for nearly everyone.
- Connect to Wi-Fi and power.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Wait for iOS to check. If you see an update, tap Download and Install.
- Enter your passcode and agree to the terms.
- Let the download finish. iPhone will prepare the update, restart, and finish the install.
What If You See Multiple Items?
You may notice a main iOS update and a small item labeled Background Security Improvements. The small one lands quicker and focuses on security. Install both when offered.
Updating An iPhone With A Computer (Finder Or iTunes)
This route is handy when storage is tight, Wi-Fi is spotty, or you want the download to live on your computer.
Mac (Finder)
- Connect iPhone to your Mac and open Finder.
- Select your iPhone in the sidebar.
- Click General > Check for Update > Download and Update.
- Keep iPhone connected until it restarts and shows the Lock Screen.
Windows PC (iTunes)
- Install or open the latest iTunes.
- Connect iPhone, click the device icon, then the Summary tab.
- Click Check for Update > Download and Update.
- Stay plugged in until the process completes.
How To Update An iPhone Without Wi-Fi
No reliable Wi-Fi? Use a computer. Finder or iTunes will fetch the full package over your wired connection and push it to the phone. If mobile data is your only option, wait for a strong signal and larger data allowance, since on-device downloads can be sizable. A computer is still the safer bet here.
Automatic Updates That Install While You Sleep
Once you set this, iPhone can download updates in the background and install them overnight while on power and Wi-Fi.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates.
- Turn on Automatically Install for hands-off updates.
- If you prefer to control the final step, turn on Automatically Download and leave Automatically Install off.
You can also allow System Files to update quietly, which can add features or fixes without changing the iOS version number.
What “Background Security Improvements” Mean
These small releases deliver targeted security fixes between regular iOS updates. They arrive faster, install quickly, and then roll into the next minor iOS release. Leave them on so you’re covered sooner.
- Find them in Settings > Privacy & Security > Background Security Improvements.
- Keep Automatically Install turned on for quick protection.
- To read the security notes, check Apple’s page that lists current Background Security Improvements.
Make Space If The Update Won’t Start
Large updates need elbow room. Freeing space also speeds up everyday performance.
- Open Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
- Review the recommendations and big apps. Offload apps you don’t use.
- Move photos and videos to iCloud Photos or your computer, then delete local copies you no longer need.
- Try the update again.
Troubleshooting: If The Update Fails Or Gets Stuck
Most hiccups clear with a simple re-try. Use this checklist to get back on track fast.
| Issue | Quick Fix | Where To Tap/Click |
|---|---|---|
| “Unable To Check For Update” | Toggle Wi-Fi, reboot, try again later | Settings > Wi-Fi; then hold Power + Volume for restart |
| Download Stuck | Delete the update file, then re-download | Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Delete Update |
| Low Storage | Offload apps, clear big media, try a computer update | Settings > General > iPhone Storage; or use Finder/iTunes |
| Install Fails | Plug into power, check Wi-Fi, re-try | Settings > General > Software Update |
| Endless “Preparing Update” | Reboot and try again; delete the update file | Power restart; then iPhone Storage > Delete Update |
| Computer Doesn’t See iPhone | Use a different cable/port; unlock and “Trust” the computer | Finder/iTunes device screen |
| Activation Or Server Errors | Wait a bit and re-try; heavy demand can cause delays | Settings > General > Software Update |
If re-trying on the phone keeps failing, use a computer and let Finder or iTunes handle the download and install. When the file itself is the problem, deleting it and pulling a fresh copy clears the queue fast. Apple also documents the official re-try steps for stubborn updates.
Post-Update Checks That Take 60 Seconds
After the phone restarts, a few quick checks can save head-scratching later.
- Passcode and Face ID/Touch ID: Make sure unlock works as expected.
- Cellular and Wi-Fi: Open a web page and a maps app to confirm data and GPS.
- Notifications: Verify that badges and alerts still match your preferences.
- Wallet and banking: Open your wallet or bank app once to confirm they’re fine.
Set It And Forget It With Smart Defaults
Once you’ve updated, lock in two switches so you’re always current with zero effort:
- Automatic Updates: Turn on Automatically Install under Software Update.
- Background Security Improvements: Leave automatic installs on in Privacy & Security.
These two settings catch both the big iOS upgrades and the small security releases in between. For a deeper read on what the smaller releases do, see Apple’s notes on Background Security Improvements.
FAQ-Free Tips That Actually Help
You don’t need a huge checklist—just the habits that matter:
- Schedule a backup rhythm: Weekly iCloud backups keep everything current. A monthly encrypted computer backup adds an extra layer.
- Keep a spare cable on your desk: A reliable cable solves half of the “computer can’t see iPhone” reports.
- Skim the release notes: When you have a minute, glance at the feature list and any app-compatibility mentions.
- Leave space on the drive: Aim to keep a few gigabytes free. iOS runs smoother and updates land without drama.
When You Should Update Right Away
Most updates can wait until evening. Two cases call for sooner action:
- Security fix is called out: A Background Security Improvement or a point release lands to block a known risk.
- App needs a newer iOS: If your bank, password manager, or work app flags a minimum iOS version, don’t delay.
A Quick Recap You Can Follow Next Time
How to update an iPhone in one clean list: back up, plug in, connect to Wi-Fi, tap Settings > General > Software Update, then install. If that stalls, delete the update file or switch to a computer and try again. Turn on automatic updates and the Background Security Improvements switch so future updates arrive while you sleep.