How to Update Your iPhone Before Data Migration

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro
You will need
Wi-Fi connection, Power source, Sufficient battery charge

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Connect to a reliable power source

    Plug your iPhone into a wall outlet. Software updates consume significant battery life, and the process will pause if the device power level falls below 50 percent.

    Note: A wired connection is preferred over wireless charging pads for consistent power delivery.
  2. 30 sec

    Verify your Wi-Fi network connection

    Open Settings and tap Wi-Fi. Ensure you are joined to a stable, private network, as cellular data cannot be used to download iOS system updates.

  3. 30 sec

    Check for available software updates

    Navigate to Settings, tap General, then tap Software Update. The iPhone will automatically query Apple servers to check for the latest firmware version.

  4. 15 min

    Download and install the latest iOS

    Tap Download and Install if an update is available. Enter your device passcode when prompted to authorize the system change.

    Note: The device will restart automatically once the installation completes.
  5. 1 min

    Confirm the software version

    Return to Settings, select General, and tap About. Confirm the iOS version matches the target device requirements for data migration.

    Note: Always update the destination device to the same version to avoid migration failures.