Keep your iPhone or iPad up to date by installing the latest version of iOS or iPadOS.
Wireless Update Method
You can easily update your iPhone or iPad wirelessly.
If the update doesn’t show up on your device, you can manually update it using a computer. Follow steps for manual updates if you’re using a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, a Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier, or a Windows PC.
How to Update Your iPhone or iPad Wirelessly:
- Back Up Your Device
Before updating, make sure to back up your device using iCloud or your computer. - Connect to Power and Wi-Fi
Plug your device into power and connect to the internet via Wi-Fi. - Check for Updates
Open the Settings app, go to General > Software Update . - Choose an Update
If multiple updates are available, select the version you want to install.
By following these steps, you can keep your iPhone or iPad running the latest features and security enhancements.
Installing the Update
- Tap “Install Now”: If the option says Download and Install , tap that instead to begin downloading the update. You will then need to enter your passcode, and after that, tap “Install Now.” If you’re unsure of your passcode, find out how to recover it.
- Dealing With Alerts During Wireless Updates:
If you receive an alert during a wireless update, check for steps on how to address any messages that appear. - Wireless Updates Not Available:
Some updates cannot be downloaded directly over Wi-Fi due to certain restrictions. VPN or proxy connections could also prevent the device from accessing the update servers.
Freeing Up Storage Space for Updates
- If a message suggests removing apps temporarily to make room for the update, tap Continue. The removed apps will automatically reinstall after the update process is complete.
- If you prefer not to lose any apps (even temporarily), select Cancel and manually delete files or apps to free up enough space for the update.
Using Automatic Updates
- Automatic Updates Setting:
Your device can be set to update automatically overnight while plugged in and charging. - How to Enable Automatic Updates:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Turn on Automatic Updates.
- Enable iOS Updates, and your device will automatically install the latest version of iOS or iPadOS. Some updates may still require manual installation.
How to Install and Manage Rapid Security Responses
Rapid Security Responses are designed to quickly deliver critical security updates before they’re bundled into future software updates.
To Automatically Install Rapid Security Responses:
- Open Settings .
- Navigate to General > Software Update .
- Tap Automatic Updates .
- Enable Security Responses & System Files .
This setting ensures that important security fixes are applied as soon as they’re available.
To Manually Install Rapid Security Responses:
If you’d prefer not to enable automatic updates, you can manually install Rapid Security Responses just like any regular software update.
How to Remove a Rapid Security Response:
- Open Settings .
- Go to General > About .
- Tap on iOS Version .
- Select Remove Security Response .
You can reinstall the update at a later time or wait for it to become permanent when included in a regular software update.
Important Notes:
Upgrading to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS provides access to the newest features, security patches, and bug fixes. Keep in mind that not all features are available on every device or in every region. Battery life and overall performance can be affected by several factors, such as network conditions and individual usage; therefore, actual results may vary.