Getting your iPhone stuck on “preparing update” can be quite a headache, but don’t fret! The solution is simpler than you might think. In less than 100 words, here’s what you’ll need to do: restart your iPhone, check for network issues, delete the update and try again, or, as a last resort, reset your phone’s settings. With these steps, you’ll have your iPhone up and running in no time.
Step by Step Tutorial: Fixing an iPhone Stuck on Preparing Update
Sometimes, your iPhone can get stuck on “preparing update,” which can be frustrating. The following steps are designed to help you solve this problem and get your iPhone back to normal.
Step 1: Force Restart Your iPhone
Press and quickly release the volume up button, then press and quickly release the volume down button, finally, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
A force restart is different from a regular restart. It’s a more powerful reset that can often fix minor software glitches, including your iPhone getting stuck on “preparing update.”
Step 2: Check Your Network Connection
Make sure your Wi-Fi is working properly or try switching to a different network.
Sometimes, a poor network connection can cause the update process to hang. Ensuring that you have a strong and stable internet connection can help avoid this issue.
Step 3: Delete the Update and Download it Again
Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage, find the update in the list, tap it, and then tap “Delete Update.”
If the update file was corrupted during download, deleting it and downloading it again can resolve the problem.
Step 4: Reset Your iPhone’s Settings
Go to Settings > General > Reset and tap “Reset All Settings.”
This step won’t delete your data, but it will reset system settings to their defaults. This can often clear up any conflicts that might be causing the update process to get stuck.
After completing these steps, your iPhone should resume the update process and finish it without any further issues.
Tips for Preventing Your iPhone from Getting Stuck on Preparing Update
- Always make sure your iPhone is charged or charging while updating, as low battery can disrupt the process.
- Free up space on your iPhone before starting the update, as insufficient storage can cause issues.
- Make sure you’re using a reliable Wi-Fi network to avoid connection problems during the update.
- Avoid using your iPhone for other tasks while it’s updating, as this can slow down the process.
- Regularly back up your iPhone to save your data in case you need to reset your phone during troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my iPhone get stuck on preparing update?
This can happen due to software glitches, network issues, lack of storage, or a corrupted update file.
Can I use my iPhone while it’s preparing an update?
It’s best not to, as using other functions can slow down the update process and potentially cause issues.
Will resetting my settings delete my personal data?
No, “Reset All Settings” only restores system settings to their default state, your personal data will remain untouched.
How long should my iPhone take to prepare an update?
Usually, it should only take a few minutes, but it can vary based on the update size and your iPhone’s condition.
Can I cancel an iPhone update once it’s started?
Once an update has begun, it’s not recommended to cancel it as it may cause further issues with your iPhone’s software.
Summary
- Force restart your iPhone.
- Check your network connection.
- Delete and re-download the update.
- Reset your iPhone’s settings.
Conclusion
If your iPhone gets stuck on “preparing update,” it’s a signal that something’s not quite right. But don’t worry, it’s usually something that can be fixed without much hassle. By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to troubleshoot the problem effectively. Remember, always start with the simplest solutions first, like a force restart, before moving on to more complex ones like resetting your settings. Also, don’t forget the tips to prevent this issue from happening in the future, like ensuring a stable Wi-Fi connection and having enough storage space on your device. With this guide, your iphone stuck on preparing update should be a problem of the past. And if you ever find yourself in a similar situation again, you’ll know exactly what to do!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.