Apps Won’t Update on iPhone, iPad or iPod touch - What to Do?
From time to time I see threads about apps on iPhone, iPad or iPod touch units that won’t update. Usually such issue takes place after major iOS updates and can be fixed within minutes using the simple steps below.
[IMPORTANT] BEFORE TAKING ANY TROUBLESHOOTING STEPS, MAKE SURE APPLE’S SYSTEM STATUS IS OK AND THAT APP STORE IS REACHABLE. IF THE APP STORE ICON AT LINK IS NOT GREEN, YOU SHOULD SIMPLY WAIT UNTIL APPLE FIXES THE PROBLEM FROM ITS SIDE.
First of all, make sure you are connected to the Internet (Wi-Fi or Cellular) and have enough free storage. If you decide to use cellular data, check whether its usage is enabled for the App Store in Settings - Cellular.
Turn your device off and back on. Press and hold the Power button until you see the ‘slide to power off’. Once you restart your device, open the App Store, go to Updates - Updateall and try updating your apps manually.
If this doesn't help, sign out from your account and sign back in.
Try resetting your settings.
- Press and hold the Power button
- Press and hold on the Home button
- Keep holding both buttons until the display turns off and back on with Apple logo on it.
Alternatively, you can go to Settings - General - Reset - Reset All Settings
Restart your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
Usually restart helps, but in rare cases you may need to perform all the aforementioned instructions.
The ultimate troubleshooting step is a full system restore. To complete it, go to Settings - General - Reset - Erase All Content and Settings or use iTunes on your Mac or PC. Don’t forget to backup your device first. Below you will find the instructions.
Use iTunes to restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings
How to back up your devices using iCloud or iTunes
If even the restore to factory settings doesn’t seem to help, it’s time to contact Apple and ask for help:
As usual, I’m open to your comments and suggestions!