In this discussion, we will explore the process of cancelling an iOS update, which sometimes becomes necessary due to various reasons. iOS updates are released regularly to improve the functionality and security of Apple devices, but, at times, users may need to stop or cancel the update for reasons like insufficient storage space, technical issues, or any other concerns they may have. Let’s dive into the steps involved in cancelling an iOS update.
Understanding iOS Updates
Before diving into the steps to cancel an iOS update, it is essential to understand what happens during an iOS update. An iOS update is a process that involves downloading and installing new software onto your iOS device. iOS updates typically fix bugs, introduce new features, and improve the overall performance of your device. The iOS update process can take several minutes to several hours to complete, depending on the size of the update and the age of your device.
Why Cancel an iOS Update?
There are several reasons why you might want to cancel an iOS update. Perhaps you started the update process, and it’s taking longer than expected or you’ve changed your mind about installing the update. Maybe you don’t have enough storage space on your device to complete the update, or you don’t want to risk losing important data during the update process. Whatever the reason, canceling an iOS update is a straightforward process.
There are a few different ways to cancel an iOS update, depending on where you are in the update process. Below are step-by-step instructions for canceling an iOS update at different stages.
Canceling an iOS Update During Download
If you’ve started downloading an iOS update but haven’t yet started the installation process, you can cancel the update by following these steps:
- Go to your device’s Settings app.
- Tap on “General.”
- Tap on “iPhone Storage” (or “iPad Storage” if you’re using an iPad).
- Find the iOS update in the list of apps and tap on it.
- Tap on “Delete Update” and confirm that you want to delete the update.
Canceling an iOS Update During Installation
If you’ve already started installing an iOS update, you can still cancel the update by following these steps:
- Restart your device to cancel the installation process.
Canceling an iOS Update Using iTunes
If you’re using iTunes to update your iOS device and want to cancel the update, follow these steps:
- Connect your iOS device to your computer and open iTunes.
- Click on your device icon in the upper left corner of iTunes.
- Click on “Summary” in the left-hand sidebar.
- Click on “Check for Update.”
- Click on “Download and Update” if an update is available.
- Hold down the “Option” key (Mac) or the “Shift” key (Windows) and click on “Update” to cancel the update.
FAQs for How to Cancel an iOS Update
What happens if I don’t cancel an iOS update?
If you don’t cancel an iOS update, your device will likely continue to download and install the update automatically. This means that your device will be unavailable for some time as it installs the update, and you won’t be able to use it during this process. Once the update is complete, you’ll need to spend some time familiarizing yourself with any new features or changes that it may have introduced.
How can I cancel an iOS update?
To cancel an iOS update on your iPhone or iPad, simply go to Settings > General > Software Update. Once you’re on the Software Update screen, you’ll see an option that says “Cancel Update”. Tap on this option, and then confirm that you want to cancel the update by tapping “Cancel Update” again.
Will canceling an iOS update harm my device?
No, canceling an iOS update should not harm your device in any way. If you cancel an update, your device will simply go back to its previous version of the operating system, and you’ll continue to be able to use your device as you normally would.
Can I cancel an iOS update once it has started downloading or installing?
Yes, you can cancel an iOS update once it has started downloading or installing. However, there may be some limitations to canceling an update once it has already begun, depending on how far along the installation process has progressed. In some cases, you may need to wait for the update to finish installing before you can cancel it.
Can I delete an iOS update permanently?
Yes, you can delete an iOS update permanently by going to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. From there, you’ll see a list of all the apps and data on your device, including any pending iOS updates. You can tap on the update and then tap “Delete Update” to permanently delete the update from your device.