Keeping your iPhone up to date with the latest iOS version is essential for ensuring optimal performance, security, and access to new features. If you want your iPhone to update on its own without you having to manually initiate the process every time, you’re in luck! iOS 17 comes with an automatic update feature that allows your device to keep itself updated while you’re asleep or not using your phone. Let’s dive into how to set it up!
Related Video: How to Enable Automatic iPhone Updates
Step by Step Tutorial: Setting Up Automatic Updates on iOS 17
Before we get into the steps, let’s quickly go over what this process entails. Enabling automatic updates on your iPhone means that whenever a new iOS version is released, your device will download and install it on its own. This happens overnight while the phone is connected to Wi-Fi and charging, so it doesn’t disrupt your usage.
Step 1: Open the Settings app
Begin by tapping the Settings icon on your iPhone’s home screen.
The Settings app is where you can tweak all sorts of options on your iPhone, but for now, we’re focusing on the software update feature.
Step 2: Tap on ‘General’
Once you’re in Settings, scroll down and find the ‘General’ option, then tap on it.
The ‘General’ section of Settings is where you’ll find information about your iPhone and options for system settings.
Step 3: Select ‘Software Update’
Inside the ‘General’ settings, look for the ‘Software Update’ option and select it.
This is the section that deals specifically with iOS updates. You can also see if your iPhone is currently up to date.
Step 4: Tap on ‘Customize Automatic Updates’
Under ‘Software Update’, you’ll see an option for ‘Customize Automatic Updates’. Tap on it.
This option allows you to control how your iPhone handles automatic updates.
Step 5: Toggle on ‘Download iOS Updates’ and ‘Install iOS Updates’
You will find two options: ‘Download iOS Updates’ and ‘Install iOS Updates’. Toggle both of these on.
By turning these on, you allow your iPhone to automatically download new updates when available and install them overnight.
After you complete these steps, your iPhone will handle updates on its own. You’ll get a notification before an update is installed, and if your phone’s battery is too low or there’s not enough storage space, the update will be postponed until those issues are resolved.
Tips for Managing iOS 17 Updates on Your iPhone
- Make sure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi and is charging overnight to allow for smooth automatic updates.
- Keep an eye on your storage space, as a lack of space can prevent updates from downloading and installing.
- If you prefer to manually control when updates are installed, you can always toggle off ‘Install iOS Updates’ and choose to install them at your convenience.
- Even with automatic updates turned on, it’s a good idea to occasionally check the ‘Software Update’ section to ensure everything is up to date.
- If you encounter issues after an update, you can visit Apple’s support website or contact Apple Support for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will automatic updates use up my data plan?
No, automatic updates will only occur when your iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi network to avoid using your mobile data.
Can I stop an update once it has started?
If an update has already started installing, you cannot stop it. However, you can choose not to download or install an update by toggling off the options in ‘Customize Automatic Updates’.
What if my iPhone doesn’t update automatically?
Make sure that your iPhone is connected to power and Wi-Fi, and that ‘Download iOS Updates’ and ‘Install iOS Updates’ are both toggled on. If it still doesn’t update, try updating manually or contact Apple Support.
Will my iPhone automatically restart after updating?
Yes, your iPhone will need to restart to complete the installation of an update. This is usually done overnight to minimize disruption.
Can I choose which updates to install?
With automatic updates enabled, your iPhone will install all available updates. If you want to choose which updates to install, you’ll need to turn off automatic updates and update manually.
Summary
- Open the Settings app
- Tap on ‘General’
- Select ‘Software Update’
- Tap on ‘Customize Automatic Updates’
- Toggle on ‘Download iOS Updates’ and ‘Install iOS Updates’
Conclusion
Keeping your iPhone up to date is crucial for security, performance, and accessing new features. With the introduction of iOS 17, Apple has made it easier than ever to ensure your device is always running the latest software. By enabling automatic updates on your iPhone, you’re not only saving yourself time and hassle, but you’re also ensuring that your device gets the necessary updates it needs to stay secure and efficient. Remember, updating your iPhone is not just about getting the latest emojis or a new interface design—it’s about protecting your digital life and keeping your device in top-notch condition. So why not let your iPhone take the wheel and update on its own? After all, it’s a smart device—let it prove its worth!
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.