iPhone (iOS) · System
Install an iOS update using Finder or iTunes
As an alternative to updating over the air, iPhone can be updated by connecting it to a Mac with Finder or a Windows PC with iTunes, which downloads and installs the update via a wired or Wi-Fi connection to the computer.
How to open Update iPhone via Computer
- Connect the iPhone to the computer with a cable.
- Open Finder (or iTunes) and select the iPhone.
- Click General, then Check for Update.
- Click Update and follow the on-screen prompts.
What you should know
- Requires a cable connection or previously enabled Wi-Fi syncing with the computer.
- Useful when on-device storage is too limited to download an update directly.
- The computer downloads the update file separately, which can be faster on a fast broadband connection.
- Available for both minor and major iOS version updates, as well as full restores.
Why it matters
Not everyone has enough free storage on their iPhone to download a large iOS update directly, and updating through a computer avoids that limitation since the update file is staged on the computer's storage instead. It's also a reliable fallback when a device is stuck in a boot loop or won't update normally over Wi-Fi, since Finder and iTunes can push updates or full restores even when the device isn't fully responsive. For IT departments and power users managing multiple devices, it also offers a more controlled and scriptable update process than waiting for each device to update on its own.
Best practices
- Back up the iPhone before updating through a computer, especially if attempting a restore rather than just an update.
- Use a reliable cable and USB port to avoid an interrupted transfer mid-update.
- Ensure Finder or iTunes is fully up to date before attempting to update an iPhone through it.
Common problems and fixes
- The computer doesn't recognize the connected iPhone.
- Unlock the iPhone, tap Trust on the prompt, and try a different cable or USB port if it still isn't detected.
- The update download fails or times out.
- Check the computer's internet connection and available disk space, then retry.
Tips and tricks
- Enable Wi-Fi syncing in Finder in advance so future updates don't require a cable at all.
Frequently asked questions
Does updating via computer erase the iPhone?
A standard Update keeps data intact; only choosing Restore erases the device.
Is this faster than updating over Wi-Fi directly on the iPhone?
It can be, especially with a fast broadband connection or when on-device storage is limited.
Related settings
- iCloud BackupiCloud Backup automatically saves a copy of your photos, app data, device settings, and more, so you can restore everything on a new or reset device.
- Back Up via Finder or iTunesiPhone can be backed up to a computer's local storage using Finder on macOS or iTunes on Windows, as an alternative or supplement to iCloud Backup.
More System guides for iPhone (iOS)
- Software UpdateSoftware Update keeps iOS current with the latest security fixes, features, and app compatibility. You can update wirelessly, overnight while charging, or via a computer.
- BatteryThe Battery screen shows your battery's current health and charging behavior, breaks down which apps used the most power recently, and includes Low Power Mode for stretching a low charge further.
- Automatic UpdatesAutomatic Updates, found inside Software Update settings, controls whether iOS downloads and installs new versions on its own overnight — while charging and on Wi-Fi — without you needing to tap through it manually.
- Update HistoryUpdate History, found on the General → About screen, lists every iOS and iPadOS version that has ever been installed on this specific device, along with the date each one was installed.
- Beta UpdatesBeta Updates lets you opt an iPhone into Apple's Developer or Public Beta program directly from Software Update settings, so it receives pre-release iOS versions ahead of the general public release.
- Rapid Security ResponsesRapid Security Responses deliver urgent security fixes between full iOS releases, installing quickly and, unlike major updates, without requiring a full device restart in most cases.