Keeping your iPhone up to date is crucial for both security and functionality. Automatic iOS updates make it easy to ensure your device is always running the latest version. To turn on automatic updates, go to Settings, tap General, tap Software Update, then tap Automatic Updates. You can choose to download iOS updates and install them automatically overnight while your device is connected to Wi-Fi and charging.
After enabling automatic updates, your iPhone will check for new updates in the background and install them overnight, without any effort on your part. You’ll wake up to an updated iPhone ready for use.
You can also check out this video about how to enable automatic iOS updates on iPhone for more information.
Introduction
In the digital age, staying current with the latest technology updates is not just a matter of convenience, but also a matter of security. The developers of iOS, Apple’s operating system for iPhone, frequently release updates to enhance performance, introduce new features, and address security vulnerabilities. For the average user, keeping up with these updates can be a bit of a hassle. You’ve probably experienced the nagging reminder to update your software, only to postpone it due to the inconvenience of the moment.
But what if your iPhone could take care of its updates on its own, without you having to lift a finger? Well, with automatic iOS updates, this is not only possible but also recommended. Automatic updates ensure that your device is always equipped with the latest defenses against security threats, and you gain access to new features as soon as they’re released. This functionality is especially crucial for those who may not be tech-savvy or those who simply forget to manually update their phones.
Related: How to Update iPhone 14 Apps
Step by Step Tutorial: Turning on Automatic iOS Updates
The following steps will guide you through the process of enabling automatic updates on your iPhone.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
This app is usually located on your home screen and has a gear icon. It’s where you can adjust all the preferences and settings for your device.
Step 2: Tap General
Scroll down and tap the General tab.
This section contains general preferences and information about your iPhone, such as the software update options you’re looking for.
Step 3: Tap Software Update
Tap on the Software Update option.
Here you’ll find information about the current iOS version your device is running and check for new updates manually.
Step 4: Tap Automatic Updates
Once you’re in the Software Update menu, look for the Automatic Updates option and tap it.
This will take you to a new screen where you can toggle on automatic updates.
Step 5: Toggle on Download iOS Updates
Enable the “Download iOS Updates” option.
By turning this on, your iPhone will automatically download any new available updates in the background.
Step 6: Toggle on Install iOS Updates
Enable the “Install iOS Updates” option.
With this option on, your iPhone will install any downloaded updates overnight while charging and connected to Wi-Fi.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Automatic updates take the hassle out of updating your iPhone. No need to remember to check for updates; your iPhone does it for you. |
| Security | By always having the latest updates, your iPhone is protected against the latest known security threats. |
| Access to New Features | You’ll get new features and improvements as soon as they’re released, keeping your iPhone feeling fresh and up-to-date. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Potential Bugs | Sometimes new updates can introduce bugs or issues that weren’t present before. |
| Incompatibility | Some updates may not be compatible with certain apps or accessories until they too are updated. |
| Storage Space | Automatic updates require free space on your iPhone, which can be scarce if you have a lot of media or apps. |
Video About Automatic Updates
Additional Information
Turning on automatic iOS updates on your iPhone is a straightforward process, but there are a few additional things you should know. Firstly, even with automatic updates turned on, you may occasionally receive notifications about new updates; this is normal, and your iPhone will handle these updates as long as the required conditions (Wi-Fi connection and charging) are met. Secondly, not all updates will install automatically; major updates, or those that significantly change the iOS, may still require your permission to install.
It’s also worth noting that if you’re concerned about data usage, you should ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi when updates are downloaded, as they can be large files. Lastly, remember that to install updates automatically overnight, your iPhone must be charging. This is a precaution to prevent your iPhone from running out of battery during the update process, which could potentially cause issues.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Tap General.
- Tap Software Update.
- Tap Automatic Updates.
- Toggle on Download iOS Updates.
- Toggle on Install iOS Updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will automatic updates use my cellular data?
No, automatic updates will only download over a Wi-Fi connection to avoid using your cellular data.
Can I still update my iPhone manually with automatic updates turned on?
Yes, you can still manually update your iPhone if you choose to do so.
Is it possible to turn off automatic updates after enabling them?
Yes, you can turn off automatic updates at any time by following the same steps and toggling the options off.
Will my iPhone automatically restart after an update?
If an update requires a restart, your iPhone will do so overnight while charging.
What if I don’t have enough storage for an update?
Your iPhone will notify you if there’s not enough storage to download an update, and you can choose to manage your storage to make room.
Conclusion
Keeping your iPhone updated is critical for numerous reasons, from security to user experience. By turning on automatic iOS updates, you can rest easy knowing that your device is always equipped with the latest software without any active effort on your part. It’s a simple but powerful way to ensure your smartphone stays in top-notch condition.
While there are some considerations to keep in mind, such as potential bugs and storage space, the benefits of automatic updates far outweigh the drawbacks. So go ahead and make the switch to automatic updates—your iPhone, and future you, will thank you for it.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.