Skip to Content

What’s the Best Way to Fix an iPhone XR That Won’t Update? Try These Trusted Solutions!

Struggling to Update iPhone XR? Which Steps Solve the Most Annoying Problems?

iPhone XR sometimes refuses to install updates, even if it seems everything is ready. Problems like lack of storage, system glitches, or being in Apple’s beta software program might stop updates. Here are reliable steps you can follow, explained clearly. Each method has already helped many people in this situation.

Update Using a Computer (Finder or Apple Devices App)

Connect the iPhone XR to your MacBook or Windows PC with a cable.

On Mac

  1. Open Finder. Click your iPhone’s name from the sidebar. If a message appears, choose “Trust” on both the iPhone and Mac.
  2. Click “General,” then “Check for Update.”
  3. Press “Download and Update.” Approve the action if your iPhone asks for permission.

On Windows

  1. Download “Apple Devices” from the Microsoft Store. Open it, connect your iPhone, and accept the “Trust” prompts.
  2. In the Apple Devices app, select your iPhone, click “General,” then “Check for Update.” Follow the onscreen instructions to let the update finish.

Free Up Storage Space

  1. Go to “Settings” > “General” > “iPhone Storage.”
  2. See how much free space you have. If you’re nearly full, updates won’t install.
  3. Delete unneeded photos, videos, music, or unused apps.
  4. Try to keep at least 5-10GB free for updates.
  5. When there’s enough room, try the update again.

Force Restart the iPhone

  1. Press the volume up button once and let go.
  2. Press the volume down button once and let go.
  3. Hold the power button (side button) until the screen turns off and you see the Apple logo.
  4. Wait for the phone to restart, then try updating again.

Disable iOS Beta Updates

  1. Open “Settings.”
  2. Tap “General” > “Software Update.”
  3. If you’re enrolled in Beta updates, tap “Beta Updates” and turn them off.
  4. When Beta updates are off, try to install the regular update again.

Extra Tips for Success

  • Make sure your iPhone’s battery is charged, or keep it plugged in while updating.
  • A stable Wi-Fi connection helps updates download and install faster.
  • If updates keep failing, try resetting your network settings: “Settings” > “General” > “Transfer or Reset iPhone” > “Reset” > “Reset Network Settings.”
  • Back up your device before big updates, so you don’t risk losing data.

If these steps still don’t work:

  • Check Apple’s System Status page for any known issues.
  • Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for help.

Following these steps, many users have fixed update troubles with the iPhone XR and enjoyed all the newest iOS features. If you’re stuck, patient troubleshooting with these methods is often all it takes for a positive outcome.