iOS 26.2 update temporarily unavailable

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Level 1

4 points

iOS 26.2 update temporarily unavailable

I’m trying to update my son’s iPhone 12 pro to IOS 26.2.1 as he got a new Apple Watch and we need to update to be able to pair it. I can download the update but every time I try to install it I get an error message saying “unable to verify update- iOS 26.2.1 is temporarily unavailable please try again later” I’ve been trying since December and it’s still the same. I’ve rebooted and wiped the phone and it’s still showing it. Anyone else have this problem and know how to fix it?

iPhone 12 Pro

Posted on Jan 30, 2026 3:40 PM

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Answer 1

Mac Jim ID

Level 9

63,374 points

Jan 30, 2026 5:00 PM in response to Ayel_83

Using a computer to update is the last option that I have. Since you do not have one, you can use a friends or take the phone to an Apple Store and they will assist with one of theirs. There is no charge.

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

You may be able to contact Apple directly, but honestly I don't think a remote diagnostics is going to help. I may be wrong though.

Contact Apple Support - Apple Support

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Answer 2

Mac Jim ID

Level 9

63,374 points

Jan 30, 2026 4:02 PM in response to Ayel_83

Here are some steps to try:

Is there a VPN installed on the iPhone? Check at Settings > General > VPN. If so remove it, simply shutting it off may not work and that app will have to be deleted.
Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage, and delete the iOS update you see there and try the download and install again from Software Update.
If you are on WiFi, try switching to Cellular or if you are on Cellular try switching to a Wifi Network.

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Answer 3

Ayel_83 Author

Level 1

4 points

Jan 30, 2026 4:24 PM in response to Mac Jim ID

There is no VPN, I’ve deleted and redownloaded the iOS 5 times. I’ve tried both wifi and cellular and even hotspotting and still no luck. I thought with the latest update it might work but it hasn’t. I’ve never had this before and the only thing I haven’t tried is hooking it up to a computer but I don’t have one so I can’t do that.

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Answer 4

Ayel_83 Author

Level 1

4 points

Jan 30, 2026 5:49 PM in response to Mac Jim ID

Thank you! I was worried if I did take it in to an Apple Store, then I would have to pay and it’s not worth it.

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