When your iPhone displays an “Update requested” message, it signifies that your device is attempting to connect to Apple’s servers to download the latest iOS update files.
This issue is particularly common right after a new iOS release due to high server traffic. If your device is stuck, you can follow several simple troubleshooting steps to fix an iPhone that is stuck on the update requested screen and complete your software update.
Before you start: Make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection, at least 1 GB of available storage space on your iPhone, and access to a computer with iTunes or Finder for the final method.
Follow these straightforward methods to troubleshoot the connection error and get your iPhone’s software update back on track without further delay.
To begin resolving the iOS update requested error, the first step is to check your Wi-Fi connection. Open the Settings app and tap on Wi-Fi. Ensure your iPhone is connected to a working and stable network. If many people are downloading the update at the same time, you may need to wait a few hours for the server traffic to decrease before trying again.
The next method involves restarting your iPhone. Press and hold the side button and either one of the volume buttons until the power-off slider appears. Drag the Power Off slider to turn your device off. Wait for at least one minute, then press and hold the side button again until the Apple logo appears to restart your iPhone.
Verifying your device storage is also crucial. Navigate to Settings, then General, and tap on About. Look at the number next to Available to confirm you have enough free space. iOS updates often require 600–800 MB of space, so having at least 1 GB available is recommended to avoid issues.
If the issue persists, you can attempt to update your iPhone using a computer. Connect your iPhone to your computer with a USB cable. Open iTunes on your PC or older Mac, or open Finder on a Mac running macOS Catalina or newer. Click the device icon to select your iPhone, then navigate to the Summary tab. Click the Check for update button, then click Download and Update. If prompted, you may need to enter your iPhone’s passcode to proceed with the update.
A useful tip is to delete the partially downloaded update if the issue continues. Go to Settings → General → iPhone Storage, find the iOS update in the list, tap it, and select ‘Delete Update.’ You can then try downloading it again.
Keeping your iPhone’s operating system up to date is crucial for the security and performance of your device. Each iOS update includes important security patches that protect your personal data from new threats, as well as bug fixes that improve stability and resolve known issues. By not updating, you leave your device vulnerable and miss out on a smoother user experience.
Successfully resolving the “Update requested” error ensures you can access these benefits without unnecessary delays. Learning these simple troubleshooting steps empowers you to manage your device effectively, keeping it running securely and efficiently with the latest features and protections that Apple provides.
