Do you want to download an iOS update, but would you rather first look the cat out of the tree? Then you can choose to download new software, but not install it immediately. That is how it works.
Download and install iOS update
The feature was added in iOS 13.6. It has been possible for some time to automatically download iOS updates, but since then you can indicate whether you also want to install this update immediately. This gives you more freedom of choice.
How to download an iOS update and install it automatically or not:
- Grab your iPhone (with at least iOS 13.6) and open the Settings app;
- Tap on ‘General’ and choose ‘Software update’;
- Press ‘Apply automatic updates’;
- Indicate how you want to arrange the updating by sliding the switches.
You will see two boxes in this menu. When you activate the top option you give permission to download new iOS updates automatically. So you no longer have to give permission for the downloading of upcoming updates.
The bottom option, ‘Install iOS Updates’, is about the part that comes after the download. By sliding the switch here (so that the box turns green) you give permission to install new updates automatically. This happens in the evening, when your device is connected to the charger.
Do you want to be in control of whether and when your iPhone receives the latest iOS updates? Then it is better to leave both boxes gray. For example, you can choose this if you prefer not to take any risks. After all, some software updates cause problems for users, such as crashing apps and faster depleting batteries.
By not automatically downloading and / or installing iOS updates, you can avoid this hoopla, because you can check for a few days whether the new software is completely safe. If you opt for convenience, then set the switch for the two options to green. In general, iOS updates are well tested before Apple releases them, so the risk of bugs is small.
More about updates
Apple is continuously releasing new software versions for the iPhone. In our iPhone update overview you can see exactly which update your phone is running on. The next major update is iOS 14, which will be released this fall. Check the video below for an overview of the most important innovations in this version update.