How do I update iOS on my iPhone?
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap General.
- Tap Software Update. Your iPhone checks for the newest version of iOS.
- If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
- Enter your passcode if prompted, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Per Apple's own support documentation, you can also turn on automatic updates so your iPhone downloads and installs new versions overnight while charging and connected to Wi-Fi, without you needing to check manually.
How do I update Android on my phone?
The stock Android path, as documented by Google, is:
- Open Settings.
- Tap System, then System update (on some phones this is under About phone).
- Tap Check for update.
- If one is available, tap Download and install and follow the prompts.
Samsung is the common exception: Samsung's own support documentation says to open Settings and tap Software update directly, rather than going through a System submenu. Other manufacturers (Xiaomi, Tecno, Infinix, Oppo) may label it slightly differently again, since each brand skins Android's interface. If you can't find the exact wording, search your phone's Settings app for "update" — the search bar at the top of Settings works on virtually every Android phone and will surface the right menu regardless of what it's labeled.
What do I need before updating my phone?
- Wi-Fi: Not strictly required on either platform, but software updates are often 2GB or larger. Downloading over mobile data can consume a large chunk of a data bundle quickly, and some carriers restrict large downloads over cellular.
- Battery: Most phones require at least 50% charge, or being plugged into power, before an update can start. Plug in your charger if you're below that.
- Storage: A software update needs free space to download and install, sometimes several GB. On iPhone, check available space at Settings > General > iPhone Storage. On Android, check under Settings > Storage. Delete unused apps, photos, or videos first if space is tight.
What if my phone won't update?
If the update fails or won't download, restart your phone and retry, confirm you're connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, and double-check free storage and battery. For persistent iPhone update failures, Apple publishes dedicated troubleshooting steps covering issues like a stuck progress bar or an error message during installation.
People also ask
Is it safe to update my phone right away when a new version comes out?
Generally yes. Software updates typically include security fixes, and delaying them leaves known vulnerabilities unpatched. If you rely on a specific app for work, it's reasonable to wait a few days after a major version release to confirm the app you depend on has confirmed compatibility, but don't delay indefinitely.
Can I downgrade after updating iOS or Android?
iOS: only briefly, while Apple is still "signing" the previous version, and Apple does not officially support or encourage this. Android: manufacturers generally don't support downgrading through normal settings either. Treat an update as a one-way step and back up first.
Why does my phone keep asking me to update?
If you keep dismissing an available update, most phones will continue to remind you, since the notification is tied to a pending download sitting on your device. Installing it, or turning off automatic update checks in Settings, will stop the repeated prompts.