Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS)

Fix software update failure on iPhone or iPad

  • Fixes all iOS issues like iPhone freezing, stuck in recovery mode, boot loop, etc.
  • Compatible with all iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices and latest iOS.
  • No data loss at all during the iOS issue fixing
  • Easy-to-follow instructions provided.
Free Download Free Download
Watch Video Tutorial

[2024] 5 Solutions To Fix iPhone/iPad Software Update Failed Error

Dec 26, 2023 • Filed to: Mobile Repair Solutions • Proven solutions

0

It is always a great idea to download the latest version of iOS on your iPhone/iPad to access new and advanced features and keep your device healthy. However, sometimes you might see that the iOS software update (iOS 17/16/15/14) has failed due to some unexplainable reasons during installation.

The iPad/iPhone software update error is no more a rare phenomenon and has affected many iOS users across the globe. It is in fact, amongst the most frequently occurring problems. When the iOS software update failed error occurs, you will see options before you, namely, “Settings” and “Close”. So you could either close the iPad/iPhone software update failed error and wait for a while before installing it again or visit “Settings” and troubleshoot the problem.

We suggest you follow one of the 4 techniques listed below to combat iPad/iPhone software update errors to download the firmware again and smoothly use your iPad/iPhone. So, let's not wait any further and set the ball rolling.

Part 1: Check if Your iPhone/iPad supports the iOS version you want to update

First and foremost, you can check if your iPhone/iPad is compatible with the iOS version you want to update. Some new updates are only available on some new devices. If your iPhone/iPad is too old, it may not install the latest iOS version. Make sure your iPhone/iPad is listed in the supported devices and start the Apple security update. The following list is the supported devices of iOS 16: 

check the compability

Part 2: Restart iPhone/iPad and try again

Restarting the device is one of the easiest options before moving on to the more tedious ones. Rebooting your iPhone/iPad might seem like a home remedy, but you will be pleasantly surprised to witness its outcome. The software update failed error issues are known to be resolved by merely restarting your device and trying again. This method also helps when the fault is due to Apple not processing too many update requests at a given point in time.

Don’t believe it? Try it now! Well, here is what you should do:

Step 1: The moment you see the iOS software update (like iOS 15.2) failed error message on the screen, hit “Close”.

ios software update failed

Step 2: Now turn off your device by the usual method: pressing the side button and the volume up/volume down button for 3-5 seconds, or you can go to "Settings" > "General">"Shut Down" and then sliding the bar rightwards on the top of the screen to turn it off. 

power off iphone

Now, Once the device is switched off completely, wait for about 10 minutes or so.

Step 3: Finally, press the side button again and wait for the Apple logo to appear. You will then be directed to your Lock screen. Unlock your iPhone/iPad and try updating the firmware again.

power on iphone

Part 3: Check network status and wait for a while

This is yet another simple and easy tip to tackle the iOS (like iOS 15/14) software update failed issue or iPhone won't update issue. We all would agree that congestion in the network or unstable signal strength may hamper the process and prevent the software from downloading.  Hence, it is advisable to check your network status and wait for a while before updating again. Now, to check the network status, here are a few steps that need to be followed.

Step 1: Start by checking your router and make sure it is turned on and working properly. Then switch off your router for around 10-15 minutes and wait.

Step 2: Now turn on the router and connect to Wi-Fi on your iPad/iPhone.

Step 3: Once your iPhone is connected successfully, visit “Settings” >“General” >“Software Update” and try installing the new firmware once again.

iphone software update

If the above method doesn't help you, do not worry, look at the 2 more methods listed by us below.

Part 4: Update iPhone/iPad with iTunes

The fourth method to get rid of iPad/iPhone software update failed issue, is to install and update the iOS version via iTunes, a software specially designed and developed to manage all iOS devices. This method is recommended by many users who prefer it over downloading the software update on the device itself. This technique is also simple and only requires you to follow the steps given below:

Step 1: To start with, download the latest iTunes version on your personal computer by visiting Apple’s official website.

Step 2: Once downloaded, use a USB cable to connect your iPhone/iPad to the computer and then wait for iTunes to recognize it.

connect iphone to itunes

Note: If iTunes does not open itself, launch the software and select the iOS device on its main interface.

Step 3: Now, the third step would be to click on “Summary” from the options listed on the screen and wait for the next screen to open. Once done, select “Check for updates,” as shown in the image below.

itunes summary

Step 4: Now, simply hit “Update” when prompted that there is an update available.

update iphone

You just have to wait for the installation to get over, and please remember not to disconnect your iPad/iPhone before the process is completed. 

Quite simple, right?

Part 5: Download the firmware manually

The last and final solution to resolve the issue of iPad/iPhone software update is downloading the firmware manually. However, this must be your last option, and you must only consider doing this by downloading the iOS IPSW file when nothing else works. IPSW are files that help download the latest firmware when the normal procedure fails to give the result.

This process is a lengthy and tedious one, but following the steps given below carefully will make the task much easier:

Step 1: Start with the download of the file on your personal computer. You must make sure to download the most suitable file for your iPhone/iPad only, depending on its model and type. You can download the IPSW file for every device model on this link.

Step 2: Now, using a USB cable, attach your iPhone/iPad to the computer and wait for iTunes to recognize it. Once done,  you will need to hit the “Summary” option in iTunes and move on.

Step 3: This step is a little tricky, so carefully press “Shift” (for Windows) or “Option” (for Mac) and hit the “Restore iPad/iPhone” tab.

restore iphone/ipad

The above step will help you to browse to choose the IPSW file you had downloaded previously. 

choose IPSW file

Please wait patiently for iTunes to finish the software update process, it may take a few minutes.

Once the process is complete, you may retrieve all your backed-up data and continue to use your iPhone/iPad on the latest version of iOS.

iOS (like iOS 16/15/14) software update failed error might seem a little confusing and strange and leave you clueless. But here in this article, we have tried to ensure that we use the simplest of the explanations for all 5 methods to help you get the best solution and fixes to this recurring issue. We hope that now you will be able to resolve your iOS software update problems efficiently and with ease. We would also like to request you to go ahead and give these a try and let us know about your experience in the process. We, at Wondershare, would love to hear from you!

Other Popular Articles From Wondershare

Alice MJ

staff Editor

(Click to rate this post)

Generally rated4.5(105participated)

iOS/iPad OS Upgrade & Downgrade

iOS Beta Install
iOS News
iPhone Downgrade
iOS 11/12 Problems
iOS 13 Problems
iOS 14 Problems
iOS 15 Problems
iOS 16 Problems
iPhone Update Tips
drfone
Your Complete Mobile Solution
  • ● Manage/transfer/recover data
  • ● Unlock screen/activate/FRP lock
  • ● Fix most iOS and Android issues
Try Now Try Now Try Now
Home > How-to > Mobile Repair Solutions > [2024] 5 Solutions To Fix iPhone/iPad Software Update Failed Error