Why does my software update fail to download?

I have repeatedly tried to install update iOS 16.7.2. It runs for one minute and then says download failed. No error message given or indication as to cause.

iPhone 8, iOS 15

Posted on Nov 29, 2023 10:14 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 29, 2023 11:57 PM

If your iPhone’s software update process fails, then check your available free space on the iPhone. You should have at least 10 GB of free space available before starting the update.

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Make sure that your iPhone is setup to meet the following requirements before you attempt to update the iOS version over a Wi-Fi Network. Open Settings ➡️ General ➡️ Software Update: If there is an update available for your iPhone then it will be listed here. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and update your iPhone. 

  • Your iPhone must have a fast Wi-Fi connection; you cannot update over cellular data or a cellular hotspot
  • Ensure that you do not have a beta updates activated in Settings ➡️ General ➡️ Software Update
  • The iPhone can not be in Low Power mode
  • The battery state of charge must be above 50%
  • Your iPhone must have at least 10GB 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.

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 29, 2023 11:57 PM in response to agnieszka206

If your iPhone’s software update process fails, then check your available free space on the iPhone. You should have at least 10 GB of free space available before starting the update.

——-

Make sure that your iPhone is setup to meet the following requirements before you attempt to update the iOS version over a Wi-Fi Network. Open Settings ➡️ General ➡️ Software Update: If there is an update available for your iPhone then it will be listed here. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and update your iPhone. 

  • Your iPhone must have a fast Wi-Fi connection; you cannot update over cellular data or a cellular hotspot
  • Ensure that you do not have a beta updates activated in Settings ➡️ General ➡️ Software Update
  • The iPhone can not be in Low Power mode
  • The battery state of charge must be above 50%
  • Your iPhone must have at least 10GB 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 29, 2023 11:55 PM in response to agnieszka206

System Status · Check if all services are operating normally. 


Support - System Status - Apple



If yes, your device is probably not connected to the internet. There are a few steps you can take to verify the connectivity of your device.



Firstly, you can open a web browser on your device. When you open a web browser, the initial page that loads is typically based on your browsing history or cookies. To further confirm the connection, you can tap on any link on that website. If the link opens and displays the corresponding content, it confirms that your device is indeed connected to the internet.


Another method to check internet connectivity is by opening a specific application that requires an internet connection. WhatsApp is an example of such an application. When you launch WhatsApp, it immediately attempts to establish a connection with its servers to synchronize your chats and display any new messages. If you can see your chat conversations and receive real-time updates, it indicates that your device is connected to the internet.



Connecting to Wi-Fi is the initial step, followed by establishing an internet connection.


However, it's important to note that connecting to Wi-Fi does not automatically guarantee an internet connection. In the event that you are unable to connect to Wi-Fi, the issue may stem from settings on your iPhone or the router/modem.


On the other hand, if you are unable to establish an internet connection despite being connected to Wi-Fi, the problem is likely related to the settings on your router/modem. In such cases, it is advisable to promptly contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for assistance.



Check your WiFi Router / Modem for --> Recommended settings for Wi-Fi routers and access points ...



For your Internet connection.

  • Over Cellular: contact your Carrier (Cellular Service Provider). The agency that issued the SIM to you
  • Over WiFI: Contact your ISP (Internet Service Provider), the agency that provided the Internet Service on your Modem/Router to you


However --> Connect iPhone to the Internet - Apple Support



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Why does my software update fail to download?

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