Qevrulon / Apple

How to update your Apple device — step by step

Software updates arrive over the air and are free. Here is exactly where to find them on a Apple device — and what it means if none appears.

The steps

  1. Connect to Wi-Fi and plug the device in (or keep at least 50% battery).
  2. Open the update screen:
    Settings → General → Software Update
  3. Download the update, then install it. The device restarts once; your apps and data stay in place.

iPhones and iPads can install updates overnight automatically: enable Automatic Updates on the same screen.

No update available?

Two possibilities: your device is already up to date — or it has reached its end of support and will never receive updates again. Check your exact model:

See all Apple end-of-support dates