iPhone Stuck on Preparing Update (Fix It Now)
⚠️ Immediate Fix
Update bar stuck? "Preparing Update" taking hours? The downloaded update file is corrupt. Do not wait—it will hang forever. Go to iPhone Storage settings, delete the update file, and download it again to clear the blockage.
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Why This Happens
- Corrupt Download: WiFi dropped during download.
- Storage Full: Not enough space to unpack the file.
- Server Error: Apple signature verification failed.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Delete the Update: Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Find "iOS XX.X" in the list. Tap it and select "Delete Update".
- Hard Reset: Perform a Force Restart (Vol Up, Vol Down, Hold Power) to clear the RAM cache.
- Download Again: Go back to Software Update and try downloading it again. Ensure you have 5GB+ free space.
- Use Computer (Guaranteed Fix): If WiFi fails, plug into a PC/Mac. iTunes/Finder will download, unpack, and install the update much faster and more reliably.
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When to Stop
Never force restart your iPhone if the Apple Logo and progress bar are on the black screen (installation phase). This will brick your phone. Only force restart if you are stuck in the Settings menu (Preparing phase).