How to Get Older Version iPhones to Update
By Melissa King
If you're an iPhone owner, it's important to keep your device up to date with the latest software from Apple. IPhones running iOS 5 or higher can update wirelessly directly from the device or on your computer through iTunes. IPhones with iOS 4 or an earlier version can't update over the air, so you'll need to use iTunes instead. If you have iOS 4, iTunes will erase all content on your phone during the update, so be sure to back up your data before performing the update.
Update iOS 5 and Later Versions Wirelessly
Step 1
Connect your iPhone to a power source, such as a wall outlet.
Step 2
Select "Settings" and "General," then tap "Software Update." Your iPhone will check for available updates.
Step 3
Tap "Download" to get the latest available update from Apple. When the download completes, tap "Install."
Update iOS 5 and Later Versions via iTunes
Step 1
Download and install the latest version of iTunes if you don't already have it (link in Resources).
Step 2
Connect your iPhone to the computer with the included USB cable. When iTunes launches, select your iPhone under Devices.
Step 3
Click "Check for Update" in the Summary section. If iTunes finds an update, click "Download and Update" to install it.
Update iOS 4 in iTunes
Step 1
Install iTunes on your computer if you haven't already done so (link in Resources). Connect the iPhone to your computer via the included USB cable.
Step 2
Right-click your iPhone's name under Devices when iTunes starts. Select "Back Up." This process backs up all contacts, apps, media, messages and mail to iTunes.
Step 3
Click "Authorize Computer" in the Store menu. Type your Apple ID and password, then click "Authorize."
Step 4
Right-click your phone in the Devices menu, then select "Transfer Purchases from (your device name)." ITunes copies all of your purchased content to the computer. This transfer works only with items purchased from iTunes.
Step 5
Click "Check for Update" below Summary, then "Download and Update." ITunes will update the iPhone, restore your backed-up data and restart the device. After the restart, iTunes will sync media content from the library back to your iPhone.
References
Warnings
- You can't back up content to iTunes on a computer with which you don't normally sync.
- The update can take up to an hour to complete. Do not remove the iPhone from your computer or turn it off during the update.
Writer Bio
Melissa King began writing in 2001. She spent three years writing for her local newspaper, "The Colt," writing editorials, news stories, product reviews and entertainment pieces. She is also the owner and operator of Howbert Freelance Writing. King holds an Associate of Arts in communications from Tarrant County College.