The current version of iOS is 15 with new updates occurring every year. Your phone should prompt you to upgrade whenever a new version becomes available for your device, however you can turn off this feature and check for updates manually if you prefer. We recommend checking for updates every few weeks if you do not have the automatic update feature enabled, to check for software updates, follow these steps:
- Open “Settings”, select “General”
- Select “Software Updates.”
- If there are any updates available, you will be prompted to download and install them on this screen. Please note that you will not be able to initiate this process if your device is in low power mode, not on Wifi, or if it does not have enough storage to complete the update.
Please note that if you are using an older device that cannot support newer operating systems, your device will not show any available updates on this screen. Your device will simply inform you that it is up-to-date and that there are no updates available.
Before updating we recommend ensuring that you have an up-to-date back up of your device, you can check your back up by opening Settings, selecting your name at the top, select “iCloud” then selecting “Backup” and on the next screen your device will inform you when it was most recently backed up. You can also create a new backup at this screen by selecting “Back Up Now.” Please note that this button will only be active if your device is plugged into a charger and on wifi.
In addition to ensuring that you have an up-to-date back up, make sure that when you initiate the software update that your device is connected to a charger and on a stable wifi network. If you device loses power or internet connectivity during a software update, it will not complete the installation process. If your device does not have a software installed, then it will not be able to turn on fully, and will only power on to the Apple logo before restarting. If this occurs, take your device to the nearest Apple store or Apple Service Provider so that they may restore your device.
Takeaway: When upgrading your device, make sure that you have a backup of your personal data, that your phone is connected to power and wifi, and that you have enough storage on your device to support the update.