iOS 18 doesn't exist yet, but here's how to install the next version when Apple releases it

Apple hasn't released iOS 18. The current version is iOS 17, which shipped in September 2023. When Apple does release the next major version—likely in September 2024—the installation process will be nearly identical to what you do now: open Settings, tap General, select Software Update, and follow the prompts. Your device will read the update over Wi-Fi, install it overnight or when plugged in, and restart automatically. The whole process takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on your device and internet speed.

If you're looking to install the current version of iOS or understand how updates work on your device, the steps below cover both. The process is the same whether you're updating from one version to the next or installing a major new release.

Key Takeaways

  • iOS updates install directly on your device through Settings > General > Software Update, with no computer required.
  • Your iPhone or iPad must be connected to Wi-Fi and plugged into power, or have at least 50 percent battery, before the update begins.
  • Major iOS releases arrive in September each year; smaller security updates come throughout the year without warning.
  • Automatic updates can be turned on so your device installs new versions overnight without you taking any action.
  • You cannot downgrade to an older iOS version once you update, so check that your important apps still work before installing.

What you need before you start

Your device needs three things: a Wi-Fi connection, enough battery or a power source, and enough storage space. iOS updates typically require between 2 and 5 gigabytes of free space, though your device will tell you the exact amount before installation begins. If you don't have enough space, delete photos, videos, or apps you no longer use, then try again.

Plug your iPhone or iPad into power before you start. If you're not plugged in, your device must have at least 50 percent battery remaining. Updates can take 30 minutes or longer, and a dead battery in the middle of installation can damage your device's ability to start up properly.

Make sure you're on a Wi-Fi network you trust. Cellular data won't work for iOS updates. If you're at home, use your own network. If you're elsewhere, use a network you recognize—a coffee shop or library network is fine, but avoid public networks you don't know.

How to install an iOS update manually

Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad. Tap General, then scroll down and tap Software Update. Your device will check for available updates and show you what version is ready to install. Read the description to see what's new, then tap Install Now.

Your device will read the update, which can take 5 to 15 minutes depending on your internet speed and the size of the update. Once the read finishes, tap Install again. Your device will restart, show an Apple logo, and display a progress bar. Do not unplug it or force it to restart. Let it finish on its own, which usually takes 10 to 30 minutes.

When your device restarts and shows the lock screen, the update is complete. Unlock it and check that your apps still work. If an app crashes or behaves strangely, force-close it and try again. If the problem persists, delete the app and reinstall it from the App Store.

Turning on automatic updates so you don't have to think about it

You can set your device to install updates automatically, usually overnight when you're not using it. Open Settings, tap General, then Software Update, then Automatic Updates. Turn on Install iOS Updates. Your device will read and install new versions when it's plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi, usually between midnight and 5 a.m.

Automatic updates are convenient, but they mean you won't know when your device restarts. If you use your iPhone or iPad for work or time-sensitive tasks, you may prefer to install updates manually so you can choose when your device is unavailable. You can turn automatic updates off at any time by returning to the same menu and toggling the switch off.

What happens if the update fails or gets stuck

If your device gets stuck on the Apple logo or progress bar for more than an hour, force restart it. On iPhones with Face ID, press and release the Volume Up button, press and release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears. On iPhones with a home button, press and hold the Top (or Side) button and Home button together until the Apple logo appears. On iPads, the process varies by model—check Apple's support page for your specific device.

After the restart, try the update again from Settings. If it fails a second time, connect your device to a computer with a stable internet connection and use a tool like Apple Configurator 2 (on Mac) or iTunes (on Windows) to reinstall iOS. This is rare, but it's the most reliable way to fix a stuck update.

Why you can't go back to an older iOS version

Once you update to a new iOS version, you cannot downgrade to the previous one. Apple stops signing older versions within a few weeks of releasing a new major version, which means your device will reject any attempt to install an older system. This is a security measure: it prevents attackers from pushing devices back to versions with known vulnerabilities.

Before you install a major update, check that your important apps still work on the new version. Visit the App Store and search for each app you rely on; the app's page will show the minimum iOS version it requires. If an app requires a newer iOS than you have, it will stop working after you update. Contact the app's developer to ask when they plan to update, or look for an alternative app that supports the new iOS version.

The difference between major updates and security updates

Apple releases major iOS versions once a year, usually in September. These bring new features, redesigned apps, and sometimes changes to how your device works. Security updates arrive throughout the year without a set schedule and contain only bug fixes and patches for vulnerabilities. Security updates are smaller, install faster, and rarely cause problems with existing apps.

You should install both types as soon as they're available. Major updates can wait a week or two if you need time to check your apps, but security updates should go on your device within a few days. Security vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers, and delaying a patch leaves your data at risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my iPhone or iPad while it's updating?

No. Your device will be unavailable from the moment you tap Install until it restarts and shows the lock screen. This usually takes 15 to 45 minutes. Plan the update for a time when you won't need your device, or use automatic updates to install overnight.

What if I don't have Wi-Fi at home?

You can use any Wi-Fi network—a library, coffee shop, or a friend's home network will work. Cellular data cannot be used for iOS updates. If you have no access to Wi-Fi, ask a friend or family member if you can use their network, or visit a public library.

Will updating delete my photos, messages, or other data?

No. iOS updates preserve all your data, settings, and apps. Your device will look and work the same after the update, except for new features and security improvements. You will not lose anything.

How much storage space do I need?

iOS updates typically need 2 to 5 gigabytes of free space. Your device will tell you the exact amount when you tap Software Update. If you don't have enough space, delete old photos or videos, or remove apps you no longer use, then try again.

What if an app stops working after I update?

Force-close the app by swiping up from the bottom of the screen (or double-tapping the home button on older devices), then try opening it again. If it still doesn't work, delete it and reinstall it from the App Store. If the app still fails, contact the developer—they may need to release an update to support the new iOS version.