Quick answer
If the iOS update is stuck, first check that the device is connected to Wi-Fi and has enough space. If the process does not move, restart the device or connect it to a computer and complete the update via Finder or iTunes. Do not erase the device or reset it to factory settings before making a backup.
How to recognize the problem
- The update progress bar stays in the same place for more than 30 minutes
- The device restarts in a loop and does not reach the home screen
- The screen says "Unable to complete update" or a similar message
- The iPhone or iPad heats up and does not respond to touch
- The update stops halfway through installation
Most common causes
Not enough space for installation
iOS needs free space for temporary files. If storage is almost full, the update may stall or be interrupted.
Unstable Wi-Fi connection
A connection drop during download or installation often leads to getting stuck. Check that the connection is stable and the device is close to the router.
Corrupted update file
If the download is interrupted, the file may remain incomplete. In that case, you need to download the update again.
Interference from accessories or apps
Rarely, accessories or apps can cause interference before or during the update. Disconnect them before trying again.
System or hardware error
If the problem repeats even after several attempts, it may be a software bug or an issue with the device's flash memory.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Check space and connection
Go to
Settings > General > iPhone Storage(on iPadiPad Storage) and check how much is free. If it is less than about 5 GB, free up space by deleting unnecessary apps and media. Make sure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and the device is plugged into a charger. - 2
Restart the device
If the update is stuck, a restart can help. For iPhone with Face ID: press and hold the side button and one volume button until the slider appears, then drag it. For iPhone with Home button: hold the side or top button until the slider appears. If the device does not respond, perform a force restart according to the model. On iPhone 8 and later, quickly press and release the volume up button, do the same with the volume down button, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
- 3
Restart the update
Go to
Settings > General > Software Update. If available, tapDownload and Install. If the update is not offered, check that the device is connected to the internet and try again. - 4
Connect the device to a computer
If the wireless update fails, connect the iPhone or iPad to a computer with a cable. On a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, open Finder; on a Windows computer, open the Apple Devices app (or iTunes if still installed); on an older Mac, open iTunes. Select your device in the sidebar.
- 5
Complete the update via computer
In Finder or iTunes, click
Check for UpdateorUpdate. The system will download and install the latest version of iOS or iPadOS. It is important not to chooseRestore iPhone(orRestore iPad) because that erases data. If an error message appears, try again with a different cable or USB port. - 6
Make a backup before any major intervention
If you haven't already, make a backup before taking riskier steps. You can do it via iCloud (
Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup) or via computer. This will save your data if something goes wrong. - 7
Use recovery mode if necessary
If the device keeps restarting and cannot boot, enter recovery mode. The procedure depends on the model: for iPhone 8 and later, quickly press and release the volume up button, do the same with the volume down button, then hold the side button until the recovery screen appears. For iPad and older iPhone models, the procedure is different, so check Apple's instructions for your model. Connect the device to a computer and in Finder or iTunes choose
Update. This will try to install iOS without erasing data. - 8
As a last resort, reset the device to factory settings
If nothing else helps, you can choose
Restore iPhone(orRestore iPad). This will erase all data, but you can restore it later from a backup. Make sure to make a backup first if at all possible. If you cannot make a backup, consult an expert before this step.
What if nothing helps
If you have tried all the steps and the update still gets stuck, the problem may be hardware-related or the software may be seriously damaged. In that case, do not disassemble the device yourself. Contact an authorized service center or IT support. They can perform diagnostics and, if necessary, replace faulty components. Also, if the device is under warranty, do not attempt to repair it yourself to avoid losing the warranty. Before going to the service center, if possible, make a backup of your data.
How to prevent it
- Regularly update iOS when you have a stable Wi-Fi connection and enough space.
- Keep at least 5 GB of free space on the device, and preferably more.
- Occasionally restart the device to refresh the system.
- Make a backup before every major update.
When to call a professional
If the device does not respond even to a force restart, if a hardware error message appears, or if you cannot make a backup, contact IT support or an authorized service center. Solving it on your own then can lead to permanent data loss.
IT infrastructure maintenance · Servers, networks, backup, security and helpdeskFAQ
Will I lose data if I interrupt the update?
In most cases, data remains saved, but interrupting the update can lead to recovery mode, and in rare cases, data loss. Do not interrupt the process unless necessary and make a backup in advance. Do not choose the erase content option if you are not sure.
How long should I wait before taking action?
If the progress bar stays in the same place for more than 30 to 60 minutes without moving, it is probably stuck. Then it is time to restart the device or switch to updating via computer.
Can I update iOS without a Wi-Fi connection?
It is not recommended. The update requires downloading large files, and mobile data can be slow and expensive. Use a Wi-Fi connection whenever possible.