7 Ways to Fix an iPhone Update Stuck on Install Now [iOS 18]

User Concern

“Hi, I just setting up my new iPhone 15 Pro. I said yes to the iOS 18 upgrade and it's now stuck spinning on the Install Now stage for over an hour...How do I get past this stage?” - From Apple Community

Set up a new iPhone and find it stuck on "Install Now" during the update? Wondering what went wrong and how to fix it? While Apple aims to minimize bugs in its iOS updates, errors like this can still happen.

This issue often arises when transferring data and updating the iOS system simultaneously, causing the process to remain stuck in "Install Now" mode for too long. In this state, your iPhone becomes unusable, and you may have to cancel the update. Don’t worry! We’ll explain why this happens and guide you through fixing it properly.

Why Is My iOS 18 Update Stuck on Install Now?

Below are the most common reasons behind the "iPhone stuck on Install Now" issue:

• Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is essential for completing an iOS update. If your connection is weak or unstable, the update process may stuck on "Install Now".
• Low Battery: iOS updates require sufficient battery power. If your battery drops below 50% during the update, the process may halt, leading to the install error.
• Insufficient Storage: Limited storage space can also cause the update to get stuck. If you've transferred a lot of data from an old phone and your iPhone is low on storage, the device may get stuck on the install now screen.
• Software Issues: Temporary software errors or minor glitches on your iPhone can also cause the device stuck on the "Install Now" screen during an update.
• Hardware Problems: In rare cases, issues with hardware components like the battery or storage can cause the device to freeze on the "Install Now" screen during software installation.

How to Fix iOS 18 Stuck on Install Now?

#1. Force Restart iPhone

The first solution is to force restart your iPhone if it gets stuck on "Install Now." Follow the steps below based on your iPhone model:

For iPhone 8 and above:

• Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
• Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
• Hold the Side button until the screen turns off and the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone 7/7 Plus

• Simultaneously press and hold the Side button and Volume Down button.
• Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone 6s

• Press and hold the Home and Power buttons at the same time.
• Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.

#2. Check iPhone Storage Space

If there isn't enough storage space available on your iPhone, the update cannot proceed. Check your storage capacity and free up some space if needed to complete the installation.

• Open Settings and select General.
• Go to iPhone Storage to check the available space.
• Free up storage by offloading unused apps or deleting unnecessary data.

#3. Delete and Download Update Again

If the new update has issues, try deleting the downloaded update from your iPhone. Then, download it again and manually update your device.

• Open the Settings app and go to General > iPhone Storage.
• Locate the downloaded update, tap on it, and select Delete Update.
• Return to Settings > General and tap Software Update.
• Download the update again and select Install Now.

#4. Reset Network Settings

If your iOS 18 update is stuck on the "Install Now" screen for a long time, it could be due to a slow or unstable network connection. Resetting your network settings might help. Here's how:

• Open Settings on your iPhone and go to General, then select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
• Tap Reset > Reset Network Settings and confirm the action. After that, you can reconnect to the network and reinstall the update.

#5. Restore iPhone to Factory Settings

You can resolve the iPhone update stuck on install now issue by restoring your iPhone to factory settings. This will erase all data and settings, allowing you to start fresh. Here's how to do it:

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone, then scroll down to General.
• Scroll to the bottom and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
• Tap Reset > Erase All Content and Settings, and you’ll be prompted to enter your iPhone's passcode and confirm the action.
• Once your iPhone is restored, you can reinstall the update as a fresh device.

#6. Restore iPhone with iTunes

Another way to resolve software glitches causing your iOS update to get stuck on the "Install Now" screen is by restoring your iPhone via iTunes. Keep in mind that this method will erase all data and settings on your device, so be sure to back up your data beforehand.

To restore your iPhone with iTunes, follow these simple steps:

• Connect your iPhone to a computer and open the iTunes app.
• Click the device icon in the top left corner of the iTunes window and select the Summary tab.
• Click Restore iPhone and follow the on-screen instructions to fully restore your device's software.

#7. The Ultimate Way to Fix iOS Update Stuck on Install Now

An effective way to fix an iPhone stuck on the "Install Now" screen without losing data is by using FoneGeek iOS System Recovery. This tool is a safe and user-friendly alternative to iTunes, designed to resolve iOS-related issues without erasing your data, unlike restoring factory settings or using iTunes. With it, you can fix various iOS glitches, such as iPhones stuck in a boot loop, recovery mode, or the Apple logo screen, in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: First, download and install the FoneGeek iOS System Recovery on your Windows or Mac computer. Launch the program and select the Standard Mode  on the screen.

Step 2: Now, connect your iPhone to the PC using a USB cable. Then, press Next on the screen.

Step 3: After that, you’ll need to download the required firmware for your device. Press the Download icon from the menu, and your device will verify and install the appropriate software version.

Step 4: After installing the correct firmware package, press Fix Now. Then the iPhone will restart automatically and update to the latest iOS 17.

FAQs about iPhone Stuck on Install Now

Q1. How long does the iOS 18 update install take?

Installing iOS 18 typically takes 20 to 40 minutes. The update file is about 5GB, and the duration depends on your internet speed and connection stability.

Q2. Can you skip updates on a new iPhone?

Yes, you can skip software updates on a new iPhone. However, all pending updates will need to be downloaded when you install an update in the future.

Q3. Can I cancel an iPhone update in progress?

While there’s no direct option to stop an update once it begins, you can activate Airplane Mode to disconnect from the internet, which halts the update process.

Conclusion

The "iPhone update stuck on install now" issue is fairly common and can result from factors like internet connection, software glitches, or insufficient storage. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to resolve this problem.

By following the solutions outlined above, you should be able to complete the update successfully. For a more efficient fix, consider using FoneGeek iOS System Recovery. It resolves most system-related issues quickly, without data loss or the need for jailbreaking your iPhone.