Android and iOS both have loyal followings, but a significant number of users, and businesses, consistently
choose iOS when given the choice. That preference isn’t just brand loyalty. It comes down to a handful of
practical advantages iOS has maintained for years.
Check Device Compatibility First
Not every older iPhone or iPad supports every new iOS release, and even supported devices can run newer
updates noticeably slower on older hardware. Before upgrading, confirm your specific device model is officially
supported, and consider that performance on the oldest compatible devices is often more limited than on newer
ones.
Back Up Your Device Before Updating
Software updates carry a small but real risk of something going wrong mid-installation. Backing up to iCloud or
a computer beforehand means photos, messages, and app data are protected regardless of what happens
during the update, a step that’s easy to skip and expensive to regret if it is.
Make Sure You Have Enough Free Storage
Major iOS updates require a meaningful amount of free space to download and install successfully. Devices
running low on storage often struggle to complete an update at all. Checking available storage beforehand, and
clearing out unused apps, photos, or files if needed, prevents a stalled or failed installation.
Check App Compatibility With the New OS
Not every app is updated immediately to support a new iOS version, and some older or less-maintained apps
may behave unexpectedly, or stop working entirely, right after an update. Checking whether your most-used
apps have confirmed compatibility, or waiting a short time after release for developers to catch up, can avoid
unnecessary disruption.
Charge Your Device or Stay Connected to Power
Software updates can take a noticeable amount of time and battery to complete. Updating with a low battery
risks the process being interrupted partway through, which can occasionally cause more serious issues than
simply waiting. Keeping the device plugged in during the update removes this risk entirely.
Use a Stable Wi-Fi Connection
Downloading a major OS update over unstable Wi-Fi or mobile data increases the chances of an interrupted or
corrupted download. A stable, reliable Wi-Fi connection makes for a faster download and a smoother, more
predictable update process overall.
Know What’s New Before You Update
Understanding what’s actually changing, new features, redesigned apps, adjusted settings. Helps avoid the
disorientation of an unexpected new layout. A quick look at what’s new beforehand means less time spent
hunting for familiar settings after the update completes.
Final Thoughts
A smooth iOS update comes down to a few simple precautions, checking compatibility, backing up data, freeing
up storage, and updating on a stable connection with enough battery. Taking these steps beforehand turns a
potentially stressful update into a quick, uneventful process.
FAQs
Q: What happens if my device isn’t compatible with iOS 10?
A: The update simply won’t be available for that device. Apple only offers updates to devices it officially
supports.
Q: Do I really need to back up before updating?
A: Yes. While most updates go smoothly, backing up protects your data in the rare case something goes wrong
during installation.
Q: How much storage do I need for a major iOS update?
A: Requirements vary by update, but it’s best to have several gigabytes of free space available before starting
the installation.
Q: What should I do if an app stops working after updating?
A: Check the App Store for an update to that app first. Most compatibility issues are resolved once the
developer releases a supporting update.
