Struggling with iPhone update problems? Has your iOS Update Failed? Learn easy troubleshooting methods to get rid of that annoying error. In this article, we will give you a step-by-step follow guide with expert advice to solve iPhone update problems for a smooth user experience.
If you face problems updating to iOS 14, 15.7, iOS 16.5, or iOS 17, you will see a prompt with the message “iOS Update Failed” or “An Error Occurred Downloading iOS“. Basic steps include restarting iPhone, checking wi-fi connection, or freeing up storage space.
Ideally, but not solely, this article will help with the following queries:
- How do I fix iOS Software Update failed?
- Why does my iOS update keep saying failed?
- How do I fix iOS 14 update failed?
- Why does it say Software Update failed iOS 16?


Best Solutions for iOS Update Failed Error
Step 1: Check Device Compatibility
The very first step in troubleshooting iOS update error is to check whether your iPhone model supports the version of iOS you’re trying to install. Doing so will help you avoid unnecessary hassle. Here’s detailed list for you:
iPhone Model | iOS original | iOS upgrade maximum |
iPhone 14/ 14 pro/ 14 Pro Max | 16 | 17 |
iPhone 13/ 13 mini/ SE (gen 3)/ 13 Pro/ 13 pro Max | 15 | 17 |
iPhone 12/12 mini/ 12 Pro/ 12 Pro Max | 14 | 17 |
iPhone 11/ 11 Pro/ 11 Pro Max/ SE (gen 2) | 13 | 17 |
iPhone XR/ XS/ XS Max | 12 | 17 |
iPhone 8/ 8 Plus | 11 | 16 |
iPhone 7/ 7 Plus | 10 | 15 |
See More: All previous iPhone Models | – | – |
Step 2: Check Your Internet Connection
Once you know your iPhone is compatible with the latest version, check your internet connection. A good internet connection is crucial for successful updates. Make sure you’re on a stable Wi-Fi network or have strong cellular signal. If you’re using cellular data, turn off “low power mode”. However, ideally, try switching to Wi-Fi for a better connection during the update.
Step 3: Restart Your iPhone
Restarting your iPhone can often fix small issues causing update problems. Press and hold the power button (or power button and volume button on newer iPhones) until you see a slider. Slide it to turn off your phone, wait a bit, then turn it back on.

Step 4: Free Up Storage Space to fix iOS Update Failed Error
If your storage space is full or crucially low, you will not be able to update your iOS software. New updates need room. You can delete unnecessary apps, photos, videos, and files to free up space. You can also get more space by clearing old messages, attachments, and app data.

Note: Before deleting anything, make sure to back everything up on iCloud. If your iCloud storage is full, you can get more space.
Step 5: Use iTunes for Updates
If updates aren’t working wirelessly, you can try using iTunes or Finder on your laptop or Mac. Connect your iPhone to your computer, open iTunes (or Finder), select your iPhone, and choose ‘Update.’ This can sometimes be a smoother way to update.

Step 6: Check for Updates
Make sure you’re trying to install the latest iOS version. Go to “Settings” > “General” > “Software Update” and see if a new version is available. If there is, download and install it. If you get the iOS update failed error again, try the following steps.

Step 7: Reset Network Settings
Sometimes network issues cause update problems. Go to “Settings” > “General” > “Reset” > “Reset Network Settings.” Remember that this will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings.

Step 8: Turn Off VPN and Proxies
If you use a VPN or proxy, turning them off temporarily might help with the update. These can sometimes interfere with the update process.
Step 9: Delete Downloaded Update Files to fix iOS Update Failed
Corrupted update files can be a problem. Find “Settings” > “General” > “iPhone Storage,” locate the downloaded iOS update, and delete it. Then go back to “Software Update” and try downloading again.

Step 10: Recovery Mode (Advanced)
If you have followed all the steps given above and nothing resolves the issue, try Recovery Mode. This is a bit tricky and varies for different iPhone models. But worry not. You can see the recovery method for all iPhone models on Apple’s official website.
Step 10: Get Help from Apple Support
If you’re still stuck with iPhone update problems, it’s time to ask the experts. Apple Support can guide you through more advanced troubleshooting steps if needed. You can follow the following threads and see if a relevant query from another user user is similar to yours:
- “Cellular Update Failed.”
- “Apple Pay Not Available on this iPhone.“
- “There was a problem downloading the software.“
- “The device isn’t eligible for the requested build.“
- “Invalid response.“
- “The required resource can’t be found.“
FAQs About iOS Update Failed Error
Why does my iOS update keep failing?
If your iOS update failed error is popping up repeatedly, check iOS supported version for your iPhone mode, restart device, check internet connection, restart your device, or try updating via iTunes.
Why is iOS 15.7 update failing?
If your iOS 15.7 update keeps failing, restart your iPhone check internet connection, restart your device, or try updating via iTunes.
Does iPhone 7 support iOS 16?
No, iPhone 7, 7 Plus, or below do not support iOS 16.
How do I fix iOS Update Failed? / Why does my iOS update keep saying failed? / How do I fix iOS 14 update failed?
Follow the step by step guide in this article.