How to Fix iPhone Stuck on iOS 18 Update

Many users have encountered their iPhones getting stuck while trying to update to iOS 18. I was one of them. After extensive troubleshooting, I discovered a solution that has worked for several devices, including my wife’s and my father-in-law’s phones. Below is the step-by-step guide that worked for me, along with some additional fixes that might help if you’re still having trouble.

If you are unable to update your iPhone to iOS 18, I first suggest that you try the basic troubleshooting steps first:

1. Force Restart Your iPhone: A force restart can help resolve an iPhone stuck in the middle of an update. Quickly press and release Volume Up, quickly press and release Volume Down, then press and hold the Side Button until the Apple logo appears.
2. Switch to a Different Wi-Fi Network: If your Wi-Fi connection is unreliable, try connecting to another network to download the update. Sometimes this simple change makes all the difference.
3. Update via iTunes/Finder: If the over-the-air update fails, try using a computer. Connect your iPhone to a computer running iTunes (Windows) or Finder (macOS Catalina and later). Select your device, and choose Check for Update. This method often works when the wireless update does not.
4. Free Up Storage Space: Insufficient storage can prevent the update from installing. Check how much free space you have by going to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Free up space by deleting unused apps, photos, or videos.
5. Remove and download:Ttry redownloading the update with these steps:
   • Go to Settings > General > [Device Name] Storage.
   • Locate the update in the list of apps.
   • Tap the update, then select Delete Update.
   • Go back to Settings > General > Software Update and download the latest version again.

If nothing above works, try these steps, the following steps how i fixed my issue:

1. Create a backup.
2. Reset All Settings (Keep eSIMs): You will need to reset your phone. Go into your phone’s Settings, navigate to General and Reset, and choose Erase All Content and Settings, but be sure to keep your eSIMs intact when asled. This step is crucial to ensure the update proceeds smoothly.
3. Setup Your New Phone as a New Device. The key to solving this issue is not to use your old phone for the initial setup. Instead, set up your new phone as a completely new device. Do not transfer any data from your old phone at this stage.
4. Download and install iOS 18: Once you complete the initial setup as a new phone, go ahead and download iOS 18. Then update your iPhone.
5. Restore your iPhone from backup.

Related articles:

• “Estimating Time Remaining” iOS Update Stuck, Fix
• Is your iPhone Stuck on Update Requested?
• iPad Stuck on “Preparing Update,” Fix
• iPhone Stuck on Preparing Update, How to Fix