Unable to update old XR to 18.3.1

Question

Level 1

36 points

Unable to update old XR to 18.3.1

While sure an older phone, works great in every aspect, BUT. Phone is currently on a now "ancient" 16.N.N version, and have been trying after full reset of phone, starting over, keep getting message "Update unsuccessful, unable to download 18.3.1". When I first start, seems like it downloads, but then PUASES for 1-2 minutes. It is during the "Preparing update" stage this stops and issues the above message.

And, YES...have tried every single suggestion to resolve. And, again, phone works fine in all regards!

iPhone XR, iOS 16

Posted on Feb 22, 2025 6:27 AM

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Answer 1

Feb 22, 2025 7:47 AM in response to ebertsj

If you have a Mac, try updating using the Finder and a cable connection to your iPhone. If still no luck, it's time to head to the Apple Store or an authorized Apple service shop.

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Answer 2

KiltedTim

Level 10

224,568 points

Feb 22, 2025 7:46 AM in response to ebertsj

Update using your computer instead of over the air.

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Answer 3

Feb 22, 2025 6:31 AM in response to ebertsj

Make sure that your iPhone has enough battery and storage.

try restarting it.

Update iOS on iPhone - Apple Support

to troubleshoot it, read this

If your iPhone or iPad won't update - Apple Support

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Answer 4

Feb 22, 2025 7:05 AM in response to ebertsj

We don't know what suggestions that you have already tried, and don't want to waste your time asking you to do things that you have already done.

Could you very briefly list the things that you have done?

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Answer 5

ebertsj Author

Level 1

36 points

Feb 22, 2025 7:38 AM in response to Bob Timmons

Good point…to all, sorry for being cranky. Started with simple restart. Toggled on and off airplane mode, did network reset, relogged into wi-fi, checked wi-fi…over 100 mbps, totally stable, checked storage - fine, battery 100% AND plugged in. As for totally restoring, this was being done on a totally restored phone.

Phone stuck at iOS 16.n…so, a bit worried missing lots of security updates as well as simply beong a what, 2 year old release. Heck, even got my old SE2 to fully update to 18.3.1 with zero issues.

Tried many times. Over 2 days.

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Answer 6

ebertsj Author

Level 1

36 points

Feb 22, 2025 8:14 AM in response to Bob Timmons

Thank you and all of you so much…appears the real solution is to post here, bother folks, and THEN it works! Today, nothing different, and finally, on maybe the 10th try overall, POOF! Am sure due to all your advice!

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Answer 7

ebertsj Author

Level 1

36 points

Feb 22, 2025 6:35 AM in response to I-Am-Smart

As stated, have tried EVERY suggestion...from Apple (these articles) and otherwise, but thanks anyway...

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Unable to update old XR to 18.3.1

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