If you need more space for an update on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

If you need more space for an update on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

If there isn't enough space for an update on your device, try this.

Updating to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS software provides the latest features, security updates, and bug fixes. If a message says that there isn't enough space to download and install an update, manage your space with recommendations or connect to your computer to install the update.

Manage space on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

To make space on your device, try the recommendations. You can also delete or offload apps and content. You don't need to purchase more iCloud storage. What's the difference between device storage and iCloud storage?

  1. Go to Settings > General > [device] Storage.
  2. Scroll to the Recommendations section to see tips.



  1. If you still need more space after you use the recommendations, you can delete apps and content that you don't need. Scroll to the list of apps, then select any app to see how much space it uses.
  2. Tap Delete App. Some apps, such as Music, let you delete parts of their documents and data. You can redownload your purchased apps and content again later. 
  3. Try to install the update again. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.

If you see Other or System Data in the graph that shows your device storage, you don't need to take action to change them. Instead, delete apps and content that you don't need, and use the recommendations.


Use your computer to update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

  1. On a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, open the Finder. On a Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier, or on a PC, open iTunes.
  2. Plug your device into your computer.
  3. Locate your device on your computer. You might need to trust your device to continue.
  4. Click Check for Update.



  1. Click Download and Update.

If an alert appears during an update, learn how to resolve an error or alert.



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