Phone stuck on Apple logo after trying to update to iOS 26

Help! My iPhone SE (3rd Gen) tried to update and got stuck on the Apple logo screen. Went into Apple Store who tried to update it via Mac but said the storage is too full.

Advised me to go to a data recovery company to get anything off the phone that hadn't been backed up. Why can't Apple do this? And why did the phone attempt to update if there was insufficient storage (it usually says it will only update if there is sufficient storage, wifi and connected to power)? Seems to be a common issue I'm seeing on forums with iOS 26.

Any way to get the data off the phone?

iPhone SE (3rd generation)

Posted on Jan 28, 2026 1:13 AM

Reply
5 replies

Jan 28, 2026 8:32 AM in response to LeahVS

"Phone stuck on Apple logo after trying to update to iOS 26"

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About Clearing Space:

Troubleshooting iPhone Storage:

Internal storage cannot be upgraded. It is what it is. So, the maximum internal storage capacity never increases, even if you upgraded your iCloud plan. Learn More here: What's the DifferenceBetween Device Storage and iCloud Storage? Apple Support


So, what to do...

Clear Space Using my User Tips:

Jan 28, 2026 3:22 PM in response to LeahVS

"Phone stuck on Apple logo after trying to update to iOS 26: Help! My iPhone SE (3rd Gen) tried to update and got stuck on the Apple logo screen. Went into Apple Store who tried to update it via Mac but said the storage is too full.[...] Why can't Apple do this? And why did the phone attempt to update if there was insufficient storage (it usually says it will only update if there is sufficient storage, wifi and connected to power)?[...]"

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Updating an iPhone:

Try updating through using a computer or through Cellular, for your model. Be certain you have the services, if you decide to follow through with Cellular. Use my User Tips:


Back Up First:

IMPORTANT: If you have an option to update, however, then be certain you backup your iPhone first. That way, you will have something to restore your iPhone from should anything go wrong with the update

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Phone stuck on Apple logo after trying to update to iOS 26

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