How to Update Your iPhone to the Latest iOS

Keeping your iPhone updated is one of the most important things you can do to keep it safe and working well. Apple releases updates that fix security holes (ways hackers can get into your phone), fix small bugs, and sometimes add helpful new features. Many people put off updates because they worry something will go wrong — but skipping updates actually makes your phone less safe.

Apple now names iPhone software after the year. After iOS 18 came iOS 26 in September 2025, and a new version arrives each September, with security fixes in between. Older iPhones that cannot run the newest version still get security fixes for a while. Whatever the Software Update screen offers you, install it.

Before you start, make sure your iPhone is plugged into a charger and connected to Wi-Fi. Updates can use a lot of data and battery, so you want both. You will also need about 15–30 minutes where you can leave your phone alone. Here is how to do it: Go to the Settings app (the gray gear icon on your home screen). Scroll down and tap "General." Tap "Software Update." Your iPhone will check for the latest update. If one is available, tap "Download and Install." You may be asked to enter your passcode. Tap "Install Now" and your phone will restart on its own — that is completely normal.

If it says "Your software is up to date," that means your phone already has the newest version and you are all set. Apple makes updates available over several weeks, so if you do not see an update that others are talking about, it may not be ready for your specific phone model yet. Updates are free and only take a few minutes of your attention. Setting a reminder to check for updates once a month is a good habit that keeps your phone protected.