Apple has released a new iOS version compatible with existing iPhone and iPad models. If you encounter the error message “Software Update Failed: An error occurred while downloading iOS,” you’re not alone—this is common on the first attempt. The error usually appears as a popup with options to “Close” or “Settings.” Additionally, during over-the-air (OTA) updates, some users may find their screen gets stuck and doesn’t advance to the installation screen, which shows a black background with the Apple logo.
Fix iOS software update failed Error on iPhone, iPad
Solution #1: Restart or Hard Reboot and Try again
Apple ID authentication is required (using different Apple IDs for iCloud and App Store or other reasons). But the authentication login box does not appear on the screen. To re-fit it, Restart or Reboot is required.
Steps to Force Restart for Face ID iPhone models: [Worked on 95% of Cases]
- Press and Quickly Release Volume Up button, then
- Press and Quickly Release Volume Down Button, then
- Press and hold the Side Button until you see the completely black Screen. And your Phone will start automatically after turning on your phone enter your passcode to access the phone’s home screen.
Again, press the Side button until the startup apple logo is on the screen to start the iPhone.
Solution #2: Try after some time or try again at the same time
- Maybe It’s a temporary problem because of Apple service down in your region.
- Check the Apple service in your region.
- Are you a developer? – Check System Status
- Some of the regions may affect the heavy load on the server due to millions of update requests in a short duration just after the release time or announcement. (Bypass this problem by choosing alternate techniques for update iOS using iTunes)
- A popup message appears with settings and the Close button.
- Select the “Close” button to exit from the screen and re-try.
Solution #3: Update using iTunes/Finder on PC/Mac, Download iOS and Update
Apple revokes iTunes support; use Finder on macOS Catalina or a later macOS version. Earlier MacOS and PC users can use iTunes to Backup and Update iOS devices as usual. Follow the simple steps to download the latest iOS update without Wi-Fi or an over-the-air (OTA) update.
- Step #1: Open the Apple iTunes/Finder on your Mac or PC. [make sure iTunes version is updated- Here’s tip to update iTunes]
- Step #2: Now Connect your iPhone via USB-lightening cable to Finder/iTunes on Mac or PC.
- Step #3: Go to the iPhone summary tab and Find the Update iPhone button.
- Click on the update button and wait for your Mac or PC to download the latest iOS firmware from the internet. Then, install it. during the whole process time, your iPhone will reboot. So don’t disconnect. and keep connected to your iOS device.
- Step #4: Wait for the complete installation setup.
Solution #4: Free up Space on Your iOS Device
Save the installation file on iPhone first, then update it over the air. Depending on required new space on the iDevice, you can take the following actions,
- Clear Documents and Data on iOS for the specific app. Go to the Settings app > General > iPhone Storage. Follow the Recommendations or delete large, old video files under the Photos option. Also, see all installed app and used space by the app. Use the offload app option to remove unused apps without removing app data.
- Delete unwanted and unused iOS app, Press and touch on an app icon until jiggle, Tap on the cross mark to delete the app.
- Delete large video files or Photos. (Must delete all Media files from the recently deleted folder)
- Find relevant settings to Optimize storage under Photos & Camera.
Above are the essential troubleshooting tips for iOS software update failed over the Air (Using WiFi – OTP). Don’t miss sharing your experience with us by following the advice given here.
