Learn how to delete a software update file that has already been downloaded to your iPhone or iPad if you don’t want to be asked to install an iOS 26, iOS 18, or other update every day.
I’m not sure if I accidentally initiated the download or if it happened automatically, but I’ve the latest over-the-air iOS update stored on my device. If the storage space used isn’t anything to worry about, what bothers me the most is that my iPhone now prompts me every morning to install that update, something I don’t want to do or be reminded of at this time. Plus, the red badge next to “General” in the Settings app is really annoying.
Deleting an over-the-air update downloaded to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch is an easy thing to do if you want to regain storage or if, like me, you don’t like to be asked to install that update every day.
Delete the downloaded iOS software update file
- Go to the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad and tap General.
- Select iPhone Storage or iPad Storage.
- Locate and tap the downloaded iOS software update.
- Tap Delete Update and confirm.
Of course, deleting that software update doesn’t prevent you from downloading it again when you want to. To do so, you’ll have to go to Settings > General > Software Update.
On some occasions, when the iOS update is stuck on the preparing update screen, you can delete the fully or partially downloaded iOS update and restart the download. Similarly, if your iOS update fails mid-way, delete the incomplete iOS update file. After that, restart your iPhone and re-download the update.