How to Update iPhone to iOS 16 & Download the Latest Apple Software

Enjoy the latest brand-new iOS 16 features by downloading Apple software updates on your iPhone.

By Conner Carey Updated 09/28/2022

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It's time for iOS 16! The newest iOS update offers lots of exciting new things, like Shared Photo Libraries, the ability to edit sent messages, password-protected photos, and more. We'll show you how to download iOS 16 once it's available to take advantage of these cool new features.

iOS 16 Compatibility: Which iPhones Are Compatible with the New iOS Updates?

In addition to the newest iPhones, the following iPhone and iPod Touch versions are capable of downloading and running iOS 16.

iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Max, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone X, iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max
iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus
iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)

The iPad now uses iPadOS. Don't worry; it's just as easy to install, though iPadOS 16 is currently expected to release in October.

Check out our free Tip of the Day for more great Apple device tutorials!

How to Update to iOS 16

Here's how to get the latest iPhone software update download:

Back up your device to iCloud or iTunes.
Connect your device to power and make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi.
Open the Settings app.
Tap General.
Select Software Update.
Tap Download and Install.
This process will take a few minutes, and you'll see a "Verifying update" notification like the one in the image below.
Once the new operating system is finished downloading, tap Install Now.
Agree to the Terms and Conditions.
Your phone will power down. Then it will power back up and install.
Once your Lock Screen comes back up, unlock your iPhone.
Follow any on-screen directions to complete the update.

Pro tip: You should always keep your compatible Apple devices updated to the latest software. This helps protect them with things like privacy updates, bug fixes, and new features. If you have an iPhone that's been around for a while, it's a good idea to learn about how to update your older iPhone safely, and what to expect when you do so.

Welcome to iOS 16! We hope you enjoy the many exciting features made available to you and iPhone users everywhere! If you change your mind and decide you don't like the new software, you can always downgrade iOS versions.

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Author Details

Conner Carey

Conner Carey's writing can be found at conpoet.com. She is currently writing a book, creating lots of content, and writing poetry via @conpoet on Instagram. She lives in an RV full-time with her mom, Jan and dog, Jodi as they slow-travel around the country.

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