iOS 18 Update Taking Forever? Shorten Update Time!

by Sophie Green   Updated on 2024-08-22 / Update for  iOS 18

Updating to iOS 18 should be an exciting process, filled with the promise of new features and improvements. But when the update seems to drag on forever, that excitement can quickly turn into frustration. If you’ve found yourself staring at a progress bar that just won’t move, this article will help you.

An iOS 18 update taking forever is a common issue, and it can leave you wondering if something has gone wrong or if you should just wait it out. Understanding the reasons behind these delays and knowing how to shorten update time can make all the difference in getting your iPhone back to normal - quickly and efficiently.

Part 1. Why is iOS Update Taking Forever?

It's frustrating when your iPhone seems to be stuck in an endless loop, especially when you're eagerly anticipating the new features of iOS 18. But why does an iOS update take so long? Let's explore some common reasons:

  • Insufficient Storage: iOS 18 updates can be quite substantial, requiring ample storage space on your device. If your iPhone is running low, the update process might slow down significantly.
  • Network Congestion: During peak update times, Apple's servers can experience heavy traffic, leading to iOS 18 update taking forever to install.
  • Outdated Software: If your device is running an older version of iOS, the update might take longer as it needs to install multiple intermediate updates before reaching iOS 18.
  • Hardware Issues: In rare cases, underlying hardware problems can hinder the update process, causing it to stall or fail.
  • Apple Server Issues: Occasionally, temporary glitches or maintenance on Apple's servers can affect update availability and speed.

Part 2. How to Shorten iOS 18 Update Time? Proven Tips!

In case of iOS 18 preparing update taking forever, there are practical steps you can take to speed things up and avoid these frustrating delays. Whether it's optimizing your network connection, freeing up storage, or checking for issues on Apple's end, these tips can help you shorten the update time and get your iPhone back in action faster.

Tip 1. Check Network Connection

If you’re wondering how long does it take to update the iPhone and why it’s dragging on, your internet connection might be the culprit. A weak or unstable connection can cause the update to slow down or even stall entirely.

  • Optimize your network settings for the best possible connection.
  • Try updating during off-peak hours when internet traffic is lower. Moving close to the router might also help because your distance from the router can enhance signal strength and speed up the update.
  • If using cellular data, confirm you have enough data allowance for the update.
  • Consider switching to a different Wi-Fi network or restarting your router if necessary.
check network connection

Tip 2. Clear iPhone Storage

If your iOS 18 update is taking very long, it could be due to insufficient storage space on your iPhone. iOS updates require ample free space to download, prepare, and install. Without enough room, the process can be sluggish or even come to a halt.

  • Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
  • Identify apps and data consuming the most space from the bar that shows.
  • Delete unused apps, offload apps you don't use frequently (keeping their data for future reinstalls), or clear large files and cache.
offload apps on iPhone

Tip 3. Check Apple Server

Sometimes, delays in the update process can be attributed to issues with Apple's servers. Checking the server status can help you determine if the problem lies on Apple's end. Here’s how you can check Apple’s server status:

  • Visit Apple's System Status page at https://www.apple.com/support/systemstatus/.
  • Look for any service interruptions related to the App Store or iCloud.
  • If Apple’s servers are experiencing high traffic, the best course of action might be to wait a few hours and try updating again later.
apple server status

If the issue persists, cancel the update, restart your iPhone, and then try downloading and installing the update again.

Tip 4. Force Restart iPhone

When all else fails, a force restart can often resolve issues like an iOS 18 update taking very long to install. This method helps clear minor software glitches that may be causing the update to stall. Here’s how to force restart your iPhone based on your iPhone model:

For iPhones with Face ID:

Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then press and quickly release the Volume Down button. Press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears and wait until your device turns back on.

Restart iphone

For iPhones with a Home button:

Press and hold both the Home button and the Top/Side button until the Apple logo appears. Wait for the iPhone to start.

ios 18 whatsapp notifications not working

Once your iPhone restarts, go to Settings > General > Software Update to see if the update is now progressing.

Part 3. Best Method to Update to iOS 18 Less than 5 Minutes

If you've tried all the usual methods and your iOS 18 update is still dragging on, it might be time to consider a more streamlined approach. The usual solutions like clearing storage or checking your network can help, but they don't always get to the root of the problem. This is where Tenorshare ReiBoot comes in.

Designed to address the specific issues that cause iOS updates to stall, ReiBoot offers a fast and effective way to get your device updated in under 5 minutes. Whether your update is stuck, taking forever to install, or just won’t progress, ReiBoot provides a straightforward fix that bypasses the usual hurdles.

Ready to fix the iOS 18 update taking forever? Just follow these simple steps:

  • Start by downloading Tenorshare ReiBoot on your computer. Once installed, launch the program. Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to the computer. On the main interface of ReiBoot, click “iOS Upgrade/Downgrade.”.
  • ios 18 not updating
  • Click “Upgrade.”
  • install ios 18 beta
  • Click “Download” to allow ReiBoot to download the latest iOS 18 firmware package.
  • ios 18 unable to check for update
  • Wait until the upgrade is ready. After the firmware is downloaded, ReiBoot will begin updating your iPhone. In just a few minutes, your device will be running the latest iOS version.
  • can't update to ios 18
  • Click Done when it says, “Upgraded successfully.”
  • cannot update to ios 18

Part 4. People Also Ask about iOS 18 Update Taking Forever

Q1. How do I know if my iOS update is stuck?

There isn't a definitive time limit to indicate a stuck update. However, if the update progress bar hasn't moved for several hours, it's a good sign that something might be wrong. In that case, the recommended course of action is to contact Apple Support.

Q2. Can you stop an iOS update once started?

While there might be no direct option to stop an iOS update once started, you can try forcing a restart of your iPhone, which might interrupt the update process.

Final Word

Updating to iOS 18 should be an exciting experience, but when it takes forever, the frustration can overshadow the anticipation. Whether it's a slow network, lack of storage, or issues with Apple’s servers, these roadblocks can make the process feel endless.

By following the tips we've outlined, you can often resolve these issues and speed things up on your own. If they don’t, Tenorshare ReiBoot is always there to save the day. With ReiBoot, you can bypass the delays and potential issues that often accompany iOS updates, ensuring a smooth and quick upgrade without the usual frustrations.