Learn what to do before updating your iPhone or iPad to ensure a smooth transition from iOS 18 to iOS 26 or from the current iOS version to the next one.
Here are 9 tips to keep in mind.
1. Make sure your device is compatible
iOS 26 supports iPhone 11, iPhone SE 2nd generation, and all newer models. It drops support for iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max.
2. Free up space
You must have about 18 to 25 GB of free space to download, prepare, and then begin installing iOS 26. If your device is low on space, explore some quick tips to free up local storage.
3. Back up everything
While most updates happen smoothly, it’s always recommended that you back up your iPhone or iPad to iCloud, Mac, or Windows PC before attempting to upgrade to a major iOS version. If something goes wrong, you can easily restore the backup to get all your essentials back. Alternatively, you can back up important iPhone data without a full device backup.
4. Archive the computer backup
If you’re upgrading to the public or developer beta version of iOS, I recommend backing up your iPhone to a Mac or PC (instead of iCloud) and then archiving that backup file so it’s not overwritten by future iOS backups. An archived backup file will help if you want to downgrade from iOS 26 to iOS 18.
5. Think about app compatibility
Most apps you use on your iPhone will be compatible with the new version of iOS. However, keep in mind that some bank, payment, and security apps may not work properly until the developer updates them.
Similarly, if you use an important institutional app, such as one developed by your company exclusively for its employees, you must check with the IT team to ensure the app is compatible with the new iOS version. If it’s not yet supported, hold yourself back before hitting the update button.
6. Know your passwords
After the new iOS update is installed, you’ll need to enter your iPhone or iPad passcode. So, make sure you know it beforehand. If you don’t, reset it before installing the update.
Secondly, once the new iOS update is complete, the Settings app may prompt you to enter your Apple ID or iCloud password. If you can’t remember it, here’s what to do.
Important: If you use a SIM PIN on your physical SIM card or e-SIM, ensure you’re aware of this as well.
7. Have fast internet
Go through some easy tips to increase your Wi-Fi or cellular data speed to ensure the update is downloaded quickly and without hiccups. You can also choose to update at night when the Wi-Fi and mobile data speeds are generally better, as fewer people are using it concurrently.
8. Get your charger and cable in order
iOS updates can’t be installed if the battery percentage is low (less than 20% or, in some cases, 50%). So check if you’re near a power outlet with the necessary charging adapter and USB-C or Lightning cable. You can also use a MagSafe or wireless charger, but they may add to the heat that’s already generated during an iOS update installation.
9. You may want to wait for reviews before updating
New iOS updates often come with bugs and issues. If you’ve two devices, you should install the latest iOS beta or regular update on your secondary device. If everything appears fine, you can update your main phone as well.
Additionally, you should also check other people’s opinions on X, Reddit, web forums, etc., before updating. If people are facing issues with the update, it’d be best for you to wait until they are fixed.
I updated to iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 developer beta on day one and experienced Wi-Fi disconnection issues, excessive heat problems, and screen frame rate drops from 120Hz to 60Hz. Thankfully, all these issues are not there in the latest version of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26.
These tips should help ensure a smooth update experience. If not, here’s what to do if your iOS update is stuck for a long time and how to remove a software update download from your iPhone or iPad.
Do you follow some other tips before installing a new iOS update? Share them with us in the comments.