Update download failed
Have an iPad Air 2 trying to update iPadOS 14.8 and get a Software Update Failed when trying to download. I’ve tried recommended troubleshooting with reset but still get error.
iPad Air 2, iPadOS 14
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If your iPad is capable of being updated to a more recent version of iOS/iPadOS than is currently installed, these support pages outline both the available methods by which the update can be performed - and troubleshooting should you experience difficulties:
Update your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support
If you can't update or restore your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support
If your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch won’t update - Apple Support
iOS update and restore errors – Apple Support
If you continue to experience difficulties with direct update from iPad Settings, you may have more success if you perform the update using a PC or Mac computer. To do so you will need access to either a PC (with iTunes installed) or a Mac (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of MacOS). Ensure that your installed version of iTunes has been updated to the most recent version; the essential device drivers are included.
Download and use iTunes for Windows – Apple Support
Update to the latest version of iTunes – Apple Support
Update software on iPhone, iPad or iPod touch in iTunes on PC - Apple Support
You should note that for your iPad to install an available update, its battery must be charged to at least 50% capacity - and/or be connected to its Power Adapter. Similarly, the iPad can only be updated over a standard WiFi connection - or be updated by a PC or Mac using iTunes or Finder - over a USB connection.
NB: “Offloading” Apps can be an effective method of creating temporary space for the software update.
https://9to5mac.com/2020/01/21/how-to-offload-apps-in-ios-to-save-space-without-deleting-their-data/
Similarly, performing the update using a computer requires less free space than the OTA update from settings. OTA requires space to download, more space to unpack and verify, and “working space” to install.
