DeviceHowTo
iPhone (iOS)⏱ 15 min

How to Update the Operating System on iPhone (iOS)

Install the latest OS version to get security patches and performance fixes.

Last verified: February 21, 2026

iOS updates arrive in two forms: major version updates (iOS 17 → iOS 18) which add new features and take longer to install, and point releases (iOS 17.2 → iOS 17.3) which are primarily security and bug fixes that typically install in under 10 minutes. Keeping the device plugged into power and connected to Wi-Fi when an update notification appears allows iOS to download and prepare the update in the background, meaning you only need to approve the installation restart when convenient. iOS 16 and later supports Rapid Security Responses — small security-only patches that install without a full OS restart, significantly reducing the disruption of staying current on security.

Quick Steps

Follow in order for the fastest result.

  1. 1Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Tap Download and Install for the latest version.
  2. 2Connect to Wi-Fi and plug into power before starting a major update.
  3. 3After restart, check Settings > About for the new OS version number to confirm the update was applied.

Still Not Working?

Try these if the steps above didn't help.

Verify the Fix

Confirm everything is fully working before closing this guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my iPhone (iOS) OS update taking so long?
OS update speed depends on download size, your internet speed, and server load on release day. Keep the device plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi throughout.
Is it safe to use my iPhone (iOS) while an OS update is downloading?
Downloading is safe to continue using the device. The actual installation phase (after download completes) requires restarting and you must not interrupt it. Install updates when you can afford 15–60 minutes of downtime.
What happens if I don't update my iPhone (iOS) OS?
Security vulnerabilities accumulate over time. Operating systems receive regular security patches that close exploits discovered after launch. Running an outdated OS leaves those holes unpatched. After Microsoft or Apple end support for a version, no further patches are issued — at that point the OS becomes genuinely risky for internet use.
Why does my iPhone (iOS) say it's up to date but others have a newer version?
Apple rolls out iOS updates gradually to avoid overloading servers. If you don't see it yet, try checking again in a day or two. You can also try Settings > General > Software Update > Customise Automatic Updates to check again.

Same task, different device

Windows 11Windows 10macOSiPad (iPadOS)Samsung GalaxyGoogle PixelChromebook

Related guides for iPhone (iOS)

Turn Off Notifications

Silence noisy apps while keeping important alerts active.

Find Your IP Address

Locate local and public IP addresses for network troubleshooting.

Take a Screenshot

Capture your full screen or a selected region using built-in shortcuts.

Record Your Screen

Start a native screen recording without installing third-party software.