If you’ve recently tried to update your iPhone to iOS 18 and found it stuck on the “Preparing Update” screen, you’re not alone. This issue can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to experience the new features and improvements that come with the latest iOS. In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons behind this problem and provide you with step-by-step solutions so that you can complete the iOS 18 update without any problems.
Why is iPhone stuck on Preparing Update?
Typically, the entire iOS 18 update process should take around 15 to 30 minutes, with the Preparing Update phase only requiring a few minutes. If your iPhone remains on the Preparing Update screen for over 30 minutes without any progress, it likely indicates that it has become stuck. Understanding why your iPhone is stuck on Preparing Update is the first step in resolving the issue. Here are some common reasons:
- Insufficient Storage Space: iOS updates require a certain amount of free space to install properly. If your iPhone lacks adequate storage, the update may get stuck during preparation.
- Software Glitches: Bugs or glitches in the current iOS version may prevent the update process from completing successfully.
- Network Problems: A weak or unstable network connection can interrupt the update process, causing it to be stuck on the Preparing Update screen.
- Corrupted Update File: If the update file was corrupted during the download, it can cause the installation to hang.
Method 1: Fix iOS 18 Stuck on Preparing Update with iSumsoft iOS Refixer
If you have a computer available, iSumsoft iOS Refixer is the fastest and most efficient way to fix the iOS 18 update stuck on Preparing Update. This is a reliable iOS repair tool that can fix all kinds of iOS issues, including stuck updates, without risking your data. Whatever stage your iPhone update is stuck at and whatever the cause, this software will help you overcome the problem.
1. Download and install iSumsoft iOS Refixer on your computer, then launch the program.
2. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable. Unlock your iPhone and tap Trust if prompted.
3. In iSumsoft iOS Refixer, choose the System Repair option.
4. Click Standard Mode and click Start to confirm your choice.
5. Click Next to allow the software to automatically detect your iPhone.
6. When prompted, click Download to download the appropriate firmware for your device model.
7. Once the firmware is downloaded, click Repair to initiate the repair process.
8. When the software indicates that the repair was successful, all potential software issues have been fixed, and your iPhone has been upgraded to the latest iOS 18.
Method 2: Force Reboot iPhone and Free up Storage
If you prefer not to use third-party solutions, here are three basic troubleshooting steps that may help fix the iPhone stuck on Preparing Update.
Step 1: Force Restart Your iPhone
A force restart can eliminate temporary software glitches that can cause the iOS 18 update to get stuck in the Preparing Update phase. To do this, quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, and finally press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
Step 2: Free Up Storage Space
After rebooting your device, check your available storage. Ideally, you should have at least 10 GB of free space to facilitate the update. Here’s how to check and free up space:
- Navigate to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
- Review the list of apps and data usage. Consider deleting unused apps, old photos, or large files.
Step 3: Delete the Current Update and Re-Download
To rule out the possibility of a corrupt update causing the issue, you will need to delete the update that’s currently hanging:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- If you see the update listed, tap Delete Update.
- After deletion, re-download the update by returning to the Software Update screen.
Method 3: Install iOS 18 Update using iTunes/Finder
If the previous steps haven’t resolved the issue and your iPhone remains stuck on Preparing Update, update your iPhone to iOS 18 using iTunes or Finder.
Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable, and tap Trust on your iPhone if prompted.
Step 2: Open iTunes or Apple Devices if you’re on a PC, or open Finder if you’re using a Mac.
Step 3: iTunes/Finder will automatically detect that iOS 18 is available for your iPhone and ask if you want to update your iPhone. Click Download and Update.
Method 4: Wait It Out
If you don’t have access to a computer for a quick fix, another solution that might work is simply waiting it out. Many users have reported that leaving their iPhones to complete the update overnight can resolve the stuck “Preparing Update” issue.
Set Your iPhone Aside: If your iPhone is stuck on the “Preparing Update” screen, consider putting it down for a while.
Leave It Overnight: Place your device in a safe spot and let it sit overnight. This allows the update process to potentially complete on its own.
Check in the Morning: When you wake up, check your iPhone to see if the update has finished. Often, this simple method can yield positive results without any additional troubleshooting.
While it may seem passive, giving your device time to process can sometimes lead to a successful update without further intervention.
Conclusion
If you find your iPhone stuck on the “Preparing Update” screen while trying to upgrade to iOS 18, don’t panic. By following the solutions outlined above, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Whether it’s using specialized iOS repair software, freeing up storage, or updating via iTunes/Finder, there are multiple avenues to explore. Stay patient, and soon you’ll be enjoying the latest features of iOS 18 without any hiccups. Remember, keeping your device updated is essential for performance and security, so it’s worth the effort to resolve these issues.
