iOS 18 is now available for all compatible devices, bringing major updates to core apps like Photos, Messages, Maps, and Mail. If you own an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or any iPhone 16 model, you’ll also get access to new Apple Intelligence features. Here’s how to download iOS 18 and what to do if you run into issues.
Compatible iPhones
- iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd gen)
- iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR
- iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max
Quick Steps
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Tap Upgrade to iOS 18
- Tap Download and Install, then enter your passcode
- Agree to the Terms and Conditions
- Wait for iOS 18 to install
Step-by-Step Guide
- Navigate to Software Update
Open Settings, go to General > Software Update, and tap Upgrade to iOS 18 if your device is compatible. - Check Storage Space
Major iOS updates require around 10GB of free space. To check your storage, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. If you don’t have enough space, use options like Optimize Photos or Offload Unused Apps to free up storage. - Download and Install iOS 18
Tap Update Now or Update Tonight, enter your passcode, and agree to the terms. The update will begin downloading. If you chose Update Tonight, ensure your iPhone is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi overnight. - Reboot and Enjoy iOS 18
Once the update completes, your iPhone will restart automatically with iOS 18 installed.
Troubleshooting
- iOS 18 Not Downloading
- Ensure you have at least 10GB of free storage
- Connect to Wi-Fi instead of using cellular data
- Restart your iPhone and retry the update
- Stuck on ‘Preparing Update’
- Wait up to an hour before taking action
- If still stuck, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage, locate the iOS 18 file, tap it, and select Delete Update
- Restart your iPhone and start the installation process again
iOS 18 is packed with new features, and following these steps ensures a smooth update process.
