How to Update iOS on iPhone and iPad: Step-by-Step Guide 2026

Introduction / Why This Is Needed

An iOS update is not just about getting new icons and features. Every update contains critical security fixes, stability and performance improvements, as well as patches for known vulnerabilities. It's worth noting that some new apps and features from Apple require a minimum iOS version. Following this guide guarantees that the update will go smoothly, without data loss or prolonged downtime.

Requirements / Preparation

Before you begin, ensure the following conditions are met:

1. Compatible device: iOS 18 requires an iPhone 8 or later, iPad (5th generation) or later, all iPad Pro models, iPad Air (3rd generation) or later, or iPad mini (5th generation) or later.
2. Internet connection: For the OTA (over-the-air) method, a stable Wi-Fi connection is required. Download speed depends on the size of the update package (typically 2-5 GB).
3. Battery charge: The battery level should be at least 50%. It's best to keep the device connected to a charger for the entire process.
4. Free space: For an OTA update, you need at least 4-5 GB of free memory. For an update via computer, less free space on the device itself may be required (1-2 GB).
5. Backup: Absolutely create a current backup in iCloud or on your computer. This is your insurance policy in case of a failure.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Check Compatibility and Free Space

Find out your device model: go to Settings → General → About. The "Model" field will show the specific model (e.g., iPhone 13). Compare it with the list of supported devices for your target iOS version on Apple's official website.

Then check available storage: Settings → General → Your Device Name → iPhone/iPad Storage. If you have less than 5 GB free, delete unnecessary apps, photos/videos (after uploading them to the cloud or a computer), or clear app caches.

Step 2: Create a Backup

Via iCloud:

1. Connect the device to a stable Wi-Fi network.
2. Go to Settings → Your Name → iCloud.
3. Scroll down and tap iCloud Backup.
4. Tap Back Up Now and wait for it to complete. Ensure the "iCloud Backup" toggle is enabled.

Via Computer (Mac/PC):

1. Connect the device to the computer using a cable.
2. On a Mac (macOS Catalina 10.15+), open Finder. On Windows with older macOS or on a PC with iTunes, open iTunes.
3. Select your device's icon in the sidebar.
4. In the "Backups" section, select "This computer" and check "Encrypt local backup" (recommended to save passwords and Health data).
5. Click Back Up Now. Wait for completion.

Step 3: Update via Wi-Fi (OTA)

This is the most convenient and common method.

1. Ensure the device is connected to reliable Wi-Fi and has a 50%+ charge (or is plugged in).
2. Open the Settings app.
3. Go to General.
4. Select Software Update.
5. The system will automatically check for available updates. If a new iOS version is available, you will see its description and buttons Download and Install or Install (if the package is already downloaded).
6. Tap Download and Install. You may need to enter your device passcode.
7. Important: During the "Preparing Update" and "Installing" stages, do not use the device and do not interrupt the process (don't exit the app, lock the screen, or turn off Wi-Fi). The device may restart several times. The process takes 10 to 30 minutes after the download completes.

Step 4: Update via Computer (Finder/iTunes)

This method is useful if the device has little free space, Wi-Fi is unstable, or an OTA update is not offered.

1. Ensure the latest version of macOS (Catalina 10.15+) or iTunes (for Windows 10/11) is installed on the computer.
2. Connect the iPhone/iPad to the computer using an original USB-C/Lightning cable.
3. On a Mac, open Finder; on Windows, open iTunes.
4. Select your device in the sidebar (in iTunes, click the device icon near the menu bar).
5. In the "Update" section, click Check for Update or Update.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions. The system will offer to download and install the update. Do not click "Restore" unless you intend to completely erase the device.
7. The computer-based update process usually takes less time for the installation stage, but the total time will include downloading the firmware file to the computer (3-5 GB). Do not disconnect the device from the computer until completion.

Verifying the Result

After the installation finishes and the device restarts:

1. Unlock the device.
2. Open Settings → General → About.
3. Look at the iOS Version line. It should match the version you installed (e.g., "iOS 18.0 (22A5286m)").
4. Also check that all your data (photos, contacts, apps) is present. Open key apps to confirm they are working.

Potential Issues

❌ "Not Enough Free Space" Error During OTA Update

Cause: Less than 4-5 GB of free memory on the device. Solution: Use the computer update method (it requires less space on the device). Alternatively, temporarily delete large apps, videos, or move photos to the cloud (iCloud Photos), then restore everything after the update.

❌ Update Stuck on "Preparing Update" or "Installing"

Cause: Temporary system glitch, low battery, weak Wi-Fi. Solution:

1. Force restart the device: press and quickly release the volume up button, then the volume down button, then press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
2. After the restart, the update process often continues automatically. If not, repeat Step 3 (OTA) or Step 4 (Computer).
3. Ensure the device is connected to a charger.

❌ Download Error / Cannot Check for Update

Cause: Internet connection issues, Apple servers are overloaded, incorrect date and time. Solution:

1. Switch to a different, reliable Wi-Fi network (or use the computer update method).
2. Check date and time: Settings → General → Date & Time → enable "Set Automatically".
3. Wait 10-15 minutes and try again—Apple's servers may be temporarily busy.

❌ Device Runs Slowly or Battery Drains Quickly After Update

Cause: This is normal for the first week after a major update. The system is indexing files and recalibrating the battery. Solution: Let the device run for 2-3 days without turning it off. After background processes finish, performance and battery life should return to normal. If the problem persists after a week, check the battery health in Settings → Battery → Battery Health.