How to Fix iPhone 15 Stuck on Software Update [7 Easy Fixes]

by Sophie Green   Updated on 2024-02-21 / Update for  iPhone 15

iPhones are known for promising software updates, always bringing new features, improvements and security patches to elevate the overall user experience. iPhone 15 is out there; as always, new OS updates were expected with its launch. Updating an iPhone to the latest version is easy - through OTA updates. However, users around the globe have reported the “iPhone 15 stuck on software update” issue. If you’re also facing this issue on your brand-new iPhone 15, we’ve covered it below with the right solutions and tips.

Part 1: Why Is My iPhone 15 Stuck on Software Update?

When you set up your iPhone 15, there’s a software update waiting for you to install. If you hit the install and download button, and it remains stuck without making any progress, you’re facing “iPhone 15 stuck on software update”.

Before we hop into the list of solutions, it’s important to know the root cause of the problem that can lead to the “iPhone 15 pro stuck on software update”. Following are the reasons for “why is my iPhone 15 stuck on a software update”.

1. Insufficient Storage: Downloading and installing the iOS OTA software update requires a temporary storage space on your iPhone. The required space will be used to store and process the updated files. The update process will get stuck if your iPhone runs low in storage space.

2. Unstable Internet Connection: Downloading and installing the iOS updates requires a stable and strong internet connection. If the network connection is slow, the update files will get downloaded into fragments, leading to file corruption. Hence, you’ll face an “iPhone 15 stuck on software update screen” issue.

3. Low Battery Percentage: During the software update installation, the iPhone performs a heavy-duty task requiring substantial battery power. If the battery level is low, your iPhone might shut down, interrupting the installation process, which can cause severe issues.

That’s why smartphones have a built-in safety feature that prevents installing software updates when the battery level hits a specific limit. This saves you from many other risks that can damage the device and cause data loss.

4. iOS Bugs & Glitches: Think of a software update as a delicious pizza from your favorite restaurant. A bug or glitch can turn it into a scrambled mess. Once the files are corrupted, it’ll lead to software update screen problems.

Part 2: How to Fix iPhone 15 Stuck on Software Update [7 Easy Fixes]

If you’ve initiated the software update on your iPhone but don’t see any progress as it is stuck, refer to the following solutions mentioned to fix it.

Fix 1: How to Update iPhone 15 without Any Stuck in One-Click [Safe & Official]

One of the effective ways to fix the “iPhone 15 stuck on software update” is using the professional iOS troubleshooting tool - Tenorshare ReiBoot. It can fix all iOS-related issues on your iPhone, such as the iPhone stuck on the Apple logo, the iPhone frozen screen, and the iPhone 15 stuck on software updates. You can also update your iPhone 15 or any other models through this tool.

Here’s how to update iPhone 15 within one click using Tenorshare ReiBoot:

  • Download and install the Tenorshare ReiBoot on your computer and launch it. Connect your iPhone to the computer using type C, and hit on the iOS Upgrade/Downgrade option.

    launch reiboot
  • Select the Upgrade option, then hit on the Upgrade button.

     advanced mode
  • The program will detect the iOS version and the iOS device’s model and suggest an upgradable iOS version. Hit on the Download button to download the firmware package.

    download firmware
  • Once the firmware package is downloaded, hit the Upgrade button to initiate the process. Then, follow the onscreen instructions to install the latest updates on your iPhone.

    start upgrade

    Once the updates are installed, your iPhone will automatically reboot, and you can disconnect the cable.

    upgrade completed

Fix 2: Check Network Connection

If you’re updating your iPhone through OTA software updates, having your device connected to a stable internet connection is necessary. The software update on the iPhone can get stuck due to an unstable or slow internet connection.

That’s why, before initiating the software update process, ensure your iPhone is connected to the internet, offering sufficient downloading speed. Use internet speed checker tools like Fast.com and speedtest.net to check your network connection.

Fix 3: Force Restart iPhone 15

If the internet connection isn’t a cause for “iPhone 15 pro max stuck on software update”, there might be a glitch in the iPhone causing the software updates to get stuck. In this situation, restarting an iPhone usually fixes minor glitches by refreshing the overall OS.

If you’re iPhone is still functional, consider performing a simple restart, or if the screen is frozen, follow the steps below to perform a force restart on your iPhone:

1. Press and release the Volume Up button. Repeat this step with the Volume Down button.

2. Press and hold the Power/Side button and release it as soon as you observe the Apple logo screen.

force restart iphone

Fix 4: Charge your iPhone

Your iPhone’s battery percentage is another factor affecting the software update process. It’ll only initiate the software update process if the battery is above 50%. Let your iPhone charge up to 80%, then initiate the software update.

charge iPhone

Fix 5: Restart the Software Update Process

If your iPhone is connected to a strong internet connection and is fully charged, yet the “new iPhone 15 stuck on software update” issue persists, consider restarting the software update process. A minor glitch in the software update process can prevent it from completing.

Follow the steps below to restart the software update process on iPhone 15:

  • Press and hold the Power/Side button until the power slider appears.
  • Drag the slider to turn it off and let it shut down.
  • Press and hold the Power/Side button to turn on your iPhone. Release it as soon as the Apple logo appears.
  • Now go to Settings >> General >> Software Updates, and initiate the software update process again.

    install iOS 17

Fix 6: Update Your iPhone 15 on Computer

You can also update your iPhone 15 via a Mac or a PC. If the OTA updates aren’t working on your iPhone, consider updating it on the computer. Follow the steps below:

  • Download the latest iTunes version and install it on your computer.
  • Connect your iPhone to the PC via a Type C cable.
  • Launch the iTunes or Finder on the computer, which should detect your iPhone 15.
  • Click the Check for Update button, and follow the onscreen instructions to update your iPhone 15.

    < check for update

Fix 7: Wait and Retry Later

If none of the above solutions fixed the “iPhone 15 stuck on software update screen” issue, there must be an issue from the Apple side. In this situation, waiting for a few days is recommended, then retrying later. Sometimes, the Apple server is down due to the overload of traffic - millions of iPhone users trying to download and install the updates on their iPhones.

FAQs about iPhone 15 Stuck on Software Update

Q1: How long does iPhone 15 take to update?

Generally, it shouldn't take more than 15 minutes to update your iPhone 15. However, downloading time for the software update file will vary depending on your internet connection.

Q2: Can you cancel an iPhone update in progress?

You can cancel an iPhone update in progress by going to Settings >> General >> Storage, then find the downloaded update file. Tap on it and hit the Delete button. Once the file is deleted, the in-progress update will automatically cancel.

Q3: What happens if I delete software update on iPhone?

Once you delete the software update on your iPhone, it’ll cancel the installation process if it is currently being installed on your iPhone. However, if it is already installed, it’ll affect anything on your iPhone, and you can download it again anytime, like you did before.

Conclusion

Getting your iPhone stuck on a software update screen can be a frustrating experience, as generally, you expect smooth sailing and waiting to get your hands on the new features and user experience. However, with the solutions outlined in this guide, you can quickly fix it.

If you’re looking for a quick solution for updating your iPhone, refer to the Tenorshare ReiBoot to update it with a one-click process.