How to Fix iOS 12.1/12/11 Software Update Failed Error on iPhone iPad

iOS 11 was released to public last year. After that, Apple continually releases small iOS updates like 11.4.1 to improve the performance. And now the iOS 12 and iOS 12.1 are coming on the way for all iOS users. But while updating to the iOS 12 or iOS 12.1, people are very likely to get “Software Update Failed” error while trying to install the update over the air.

Actually, this unwelcome error is not something new for iOS 12 or iOS 12.1, and it is one of the most common issues when people download new iOS software update. And on previous iOS 10 update, people also got this kind of error. In this article, we’ll show you some quick methods to fix the iPhone Software Update Failed error.

Also Read: How to Fix: iPhone/iPad Keeps Restarting >

How to Fix Software Update Failed Error on iPhone iPad

Now we will show you four options to solve the Software Update Failed in iOS 12 or iOS 12.1 on your iPhone or iPad Over the Air. Hope one of them helps you on this issue.

Option 1: Close and Try Again

On the “Software Update Failed” pop-up, you will see two options: “Close” and “Settings”. Tap on the “Close” button to exit this error message, and wait for few minutes, and then tap on “Download and Install” again. This time if it still stuck on that error screen, close it and try again.

Option 2: Wait for Few Hours

Although the new iOS is shiny and very attractive, you won’t need to rush to the great mass fervor of downloading new iOS. Just wait for few hours and even several days, it will be much smoother to download iOS over the air. In the meanwhile, there are many things to do: back up your iDevice, reclaim enough storage space, or read iOS reviews online.

Option 3: Try Updating via iTunes

Because the “Software Update Failed” error seems to only happen to users who upgrade on iDevice directly, you can try upgrading to new iOS 12 or iOS 12.1 by using iTunes on computer. We’ve heard many users successfully download new iOS on computer instead of OTA.

Option 4: For Advanced Users Only – Upgrade with IPSW File

This method is for advanced users who are familiar with firmware files and is capable of manually updating to iOS software update with the IPSW file. This option can be the best way to bypass the “Software Update Failed” error message. Before you do this, remember to fully backup your iPhone.

• Download the correct IPSW file.
• Open iTunes, and connect your iPhone to computer.
• In the Summary, you should see the “Restore iPhone…” button.
• Hold down the Shift key and click on Restore iPhone….
• Select the downloaded IPSW file.
• The iTunes restore will install the iOS version you choose on your iDevice.
• Then, restore from the backup you just created to get all data back.

Option 5: Restart your Wi-Fi and make sure you have a strong and stable Internet connection.

Option 6: Reset your Network Settings by opening Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

Option 7: Reboot your iPhone or iPad.

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