I can’t update to IOS 15.1 on my iPhone 11.

When I try it says there is an error downloading. I have tried ensuring there is adequate storage and have hard reset 3 times. I’m on wifi and the phone is plugged in. I don’t have a pc to update with. Any ideas

iPhone 11, iOS 15

Posted on Nov 6, 2021 11:13 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 6, 2021 11:20 PM

Use internet speed over 15 Mbps (both download and upload) speed for error free update. Avoid latching on to Hotspot or WiFi Extenders

VPN or proxy connections might prevent your device from contacting the update servers.

If you still can't install the latest version of iOS, try downloading the update again:

  1. Go to Settings > General > [Device name] Storage.
  1. Find the iOS update in the list of apps.
  1. Tap the iOS update, then tap Delete Update.
  1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and download the latest iOS update.

If you don’t see the update in the list of apps or if the issue happens again, you need to update your device with iTunes.

Try updating iOS after each step.

  • Try Forget the WiFi network and add again
  • Try another WiFi network 
  • Toggle sets automatically off and then on
  • Reset your network settings
  • Force restart your device
  • Remove any beta profiles, if applicable
  • If everything fails: - Use iTunes or Finder (for MacOS Catalina+) to update your device instead of over-the-air


14 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 6, 2021 11:20 PM in response to kate125

Use internet speed over 15 Mbps (both download and upload) speed for error free update. Avoid latching on to Hotspot or WiFi Extenders

VPN or proxy connections might prevent your device from contacting the update servers.

If you still can't install the latest version of iOS, try downloading the update again:

  1. Go to Settings > General > [Device name] Storage.
  1. Find the iOS update in the list of apps.
  1. Tap the iOS update, then tap Delete Update.
  1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and download the latest iOS update.

If you don’t see the update in the list of apps or if the issue happens again, you need to update your device with iTunes.

Try updating iOS after each step.

  • Try Forget the WiFi network and add again
  • Try another WiFi network 
  • Toggle sets automatically off and then on
  • Reset your network settings
  • Force restart your device
  • Remove any beta profiles, if applicable
  • If everything fails: - Use iTunes or Finder (for MacOS Catalina+) to update your device instead of over-the-air


Nov 16, 2021 10:14 PM in response to kate125

I believe that, by Hard Reset, you meant Forced ReStart. Others who may need assistance can Try and Force Restart the iPhone EXACTLY as shown below and see whether that resolves the issue:

  • Press and quickly release Volume UP button
  • Press and quickly release Volume DOWN button
  • Press and Hold the SIDE button until an Apple logo appears and then release the Side button (Can take up to 20 seconds. (DO NOT release Side Button when invited to Slide Power OFF). 


Axel F.

Nov 6, 2021 11:22 PM in response to kate125

kate125 Said:

"I can’t update to IOS 15.1 on my iPhone 11.: When I try it says there is an error downloading. I have tried ensuring there is adequate storage and have hard reset 3 times. I’m on wifi and the phone is plugged in. I don’t have a pc to update with. Any ideas"

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Why the Error:

You are losing the connection or the downloaded file is corrupt. So, are you connected to a VPN? If so, disconnect from it.


Any Access to a Computer?:

Though you have no computer, ask someone else (i.e. friend or family member) if you may use their computer to perform this update.

Use a Computer and Ethernet:

Start with attempting an update through use of a computer. If you cannot use Wi-Fi, then use Ethernet.  Go Here: Update your iPhone Using a Computer - User Tip. On the computer, you would connect it through Ethernet, going directly into your router. For a Mac (or PC) that does not have Ethernet, this would be the adapter to use: Belkin USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter - Apple. If you get the same error, the model is likely just not compatible.

Nov 18, 2021 7:13 PM in response to Kathy365

Hi Kathy,

What do you see on your screen when you attempt to update your iPhone 6s?

Make sure that your iPhone is setup to meet the following requirements before you attempt to update the iOS version-

  • Your iPhone must have a fast Wi-Fi connection; you cannot update over cellular data or a cellular hotspot
  • The iPhone can not be in Low Power mode
  • The battery state of charge must be above 50%
  • Your iPhone must have at least 6GB or more free storage space
  • Your iPhone cannot be connected through VPN
  • You should leave the phone plugged in until it finishes updating, both to assure that it remains above 50% and to keep Wi-Fi enabled (Wi-Fi turns off when the phone sleeps if not connected to power).


Axel F.

Nov 16, 2021 4:03 PM in response to Mikaimee

Mikaimee Said:

"[...]I am having the same issue, but even after removing a pile of apps and photos etc, it is showing me that more than half my space is taken up by software. I tried deleting the update, but it just doesn’t delete.[...]"

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Reporting this to Apple:

This is a well known bug. So report it to Apple, through use of feedback. In regards to deleting the update, note that iPhones cannot be downgraded after an update installation.


Provide your Feedback:

Do your Part: Inform Apple of your feedback. Apple wont get back to you directly, but the more feedback thy receive from its users, the more likely they will know what needs to be fixed.

  1. Go Here: Feedback - macOS - Apple
  2. Select: "Feature Request" for the "Feedback Type"
  3. Select: "Application/Utilities" for the "Feedback Area"
  4. Comment: on why this seems dumb, and how you think things should be a bit better 
  5. Proceed from there as necessary.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

I can’t update to IOS 15.1 on my iPhone 11.

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