Why need WiFi to update?

Although the suggestion above is probably the best practice, I have read that you can get around this cellular restriction by using Hotspot, basically if you have two cellular devices turn Hotspot on for one and connect other and do your update, then reverse the process.

I haven't tested and the charges could be costly depending on your data plans, but the reason it's said to work is the connecting device see's the Hotspot as a wireless connection.

Since iPhones have been able to wirelessly update the have always required Wi-Fi specifically (before wireless updating you had to use iTunes on a computer as far as I know).

The reason Wi-Finis required isn’t publicly stated by apple so we can never really know for sure but I suspect it’s because of the size of the update, and the fact that traditionally Wi-Fi has been more reliable and faster than cellular data. With 4G/LYE advancements the speed thing might not be AS relevant anymore, but definitely the size (especially if you have a limited data plan with your carried) and reliability is key.

Bottom line is it DOES require Wi-Fi or iTunes on a computer (that also has Wi-Fi, or st least Ethernet Internet). So those are your only options; debating about why it is or whether you agree with that won’t change facts.

Yes Samsung, HTC, LG, Motorola, and Google are all able to update using cellular the only required is it needs to be plugged in. Cellular update aren’t recommended due to the sometimes large downloads using up some people’s data allowance. But for others cellular data is the only data the have.

Hi! An internet connection (wifi) is required to update the software of your device. This is fairly standard for all smartphones, tablets and computers. If you are not prepared to opt for a wifi contract, I suggest going to a public place where wifi is available for free, such as at a public library or at your workplace and updating the OS from there. Note, operating system updates are anywhere from 1.5 GB to 6 GB, depending on the device.

Crycratron wrote:

No that’s not standard that’s a lie. Samsung u can use cellular data. And my moms older iPhone u can use cellular data. So stop the bs and fix it

No iPhone has ever been able to do an iOS update over cellular data. It's been a while since I've had a Samsung so I can't comment on that.

However, WiFi is very often available in public spaces such as coffee shops, libraries, McDonald's and even Apple Stores.