How to Update iOS Wirelessly on the iPhone

You don't need a computer to update your iPhone

by
Sam Costello
Sam Costello
Writer
Sam Costello has been writing about tech since 2000. His writing has appeared in publications such as CNN.com, PC World, InfoWord, and many others.
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Sam Costello
Updated on February 16, 2020

Each new version of iOS—the operating system that runs the iPhone—brings new features, bug fixes, and changes to what the phone can do and how it's used. Upgrading to a new version of iOS used to involve connecting the iOS device to a PC, downloading the update to the computer, then installing the update by syncing with iTunes. Not anymore. These days, iOS updates can be installed wirelessly (a technique known as over-the-air, or OTA, updating).

Because the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad all run iOS, these instructions also apply to those devices.

How to Update iOS Wirelessly on the iPhone

Before you begin an update:

  • Back up your data to iCloud or iTunes just in case something goes wrong with the upgrade and the phone needs to be restored.
  • Connect to a Wi-Fi network. The update can be downloaded over a cellular network, but the updates are large (often 1GB or more), may take a long time to download, and use your monthly wireless data. Wi-Fi is easier and faster.
  • Charge the iPhone battery. The download and installation process takes time. If there's less than 50 percent battery life remaining, charge the battery before the update.

To update iOS:

  1. On the iPhone Home screen, tap the Settings app.

  2. Scroll down, then tap General.

  3. Tap Software Update. The device checks to see if there's an update. If there is, it reports what it is and what the update adds to the device.

  4. Tap Download and Install to begin installing the iPhone software update.

    The Settings, General and Software Update screens in iOS
     Lifewire

  5. If the phone is protected with a passcode, enter the passcode to begin the download. A blue progress bar moves across the screen.

  6. Tap Install Now. The screen goes dark, then displays the Apple logo. A progress bar shows the status of the update. When the iOS update finishes, the iPhone restarts and displays a completion notice.

    The Passcode, Software Update and Lock screens on the iPhone
     Lifewire

Tips for iOS Upgrade

The iPhone notifies you when there's an update even if you don't check for it. If you see a red 1 icon on the Settings app on your home screen, that means there's an iOS update available. You may also receive a push notification.

If there isn't enough empty storage space available on the device to install the update, learn how to update iPhone when you don't have enough room and follow the tips to fix this situation.

If something goes wrong with the installation, there are two options to fix it: Recovery Mode or (if things go badly) DFU Mode. Another result of a failed upgrade is a white screen of death. You can may run into error 3194.

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