iOS updates can be several gigabytes in size, so WiFi is required. Open Control Center by swiping down from the top-right, or go to Settings → WiFi to confirm you're connected.
Open the Settings app, tap General, then tap Software Update near the top of the list.
This takes a few seconds. If your iPhone is already up to date, you'll see a message saying so. If an update is available, it will show the version number and release notes.
The update will begin downloading over WiFi. Larger updates can take 5–30 minutes to download depending on your internet speed. You can keep using your phone while it downloads.
Apple requires your passcode to authorize the update. Enter your 4- or 6-digit passcode when asked.
Tap Install Now to begin immediately, or Install Tonight to have your iPhone update automatically overnight while it charges. If you tap Remind Me Later, you'll be prompted again in the future.
Your iPhone will show an Apple logo with a progress bar while the update installs. This is normal and usually takes 5–15 minutes. Your phone will restart on its own when it's done.
On a Mac running macOS Catalina or later, iPhone updates are handled through Finder. On Windows PCs or Macs running older macOS versions, use iTunes (download it free from apple.com if you don't have it).
Use an Apple Lightning or USB-C cable. When you connect, unlock your iPhone with your passcode and tap Trust This Computer if prompted.
In Finder, your iPhone appears in the left sidebar under Locations. In iTunes, click the iPhone icon near the top-left of the window.
On the Summary page, click the Check for Update button. The computer will check Apple's servers for the latest available iOS version.
If an update is available, click Download and Update. The update downloads to your computer first, then installs on your iPhone.
You may be prompted to enter your passcode on the iPhone itself. Keep your iPhone connected to the computer and do not unplug it until the update is fully complete.
Go to Settings → General → iPhone Storage. Find the iOS update file in the list (it will say "iOS [version]") and tap it, then tap Delete Update. This removes the corrupted download.
On Face ID iPhones: hold the Side button and Volume Down, then swipe to power off. On older iPhones: hold the Side or Top button. Wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
Go to Settings → WiFi and re-select your network. Then go back to Settings → General → Software Update and start a fresh download.
Sometimes your home network has a firewall or speed issue that blocks large downloads. Try connecting to a different network — a friend's WiFi or your phone's hotspot from another device.
If WiFi updates keep failing, connect your iPhone to a computer and update through Finder or iTunes instead. This method downloads the full update file to the computer and then installs it directly.
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