
Have you ever excitedly anticipated a new iOS update, only to feel the frustration of watching that progress bar crawl? I’ve been there—refreshing my screen every few minutes, wondering how long the update will actually take. The iOS 18 update is no different. While it promises exciting new features and smoother performance, the time it takes to install can be a bit of a guessing game. Let me walk you through everything you need to know, including a few tips I’ve picked up from my own experiences.
How Long Does the iOS 18 Update Take?
When it comes to updating to a new version of iOS, the time required depends on a variety of factors. Here’s a breakdown to help you set realistic expectations:
1. Preparation Time
Before the actual update begins, there are some preparatory steps that can add to the overall time:
- Backing Up Your Data: Ensuring your device is backed up via iCloud or a computer is crucial. This usually takes around 5–10 minutes, depending on how much data you have.
- Freeing Up Storage: If your device is running low on space, you may need to delete apps, photos, or files to make room for the update. This could take anywhere from 5 minutes to 20 minutes, depending on what needs to be cleared.
- Downloading the Update: The iOS 18 update is typically 3–5 GB in size. On a fast Wi-Fi connection, this step can take 10–30 minutes, but slower connections may take significantly longer.
2. Installation Time
Once the download is complete, the installation begins. Here’s what to expect:
- Verifying the Update: This step ensures the downloaded file is complete and ready to install. It usually takes 1–5 minutes.
- Installing the Update: This is where the actual magic happens. It can take 10–20 minutes, depending on your device’s age and performance.
- Restarting Your Device: After the installation, your device will restart to apply the update. This takes another 5 minutes.
3. Total Time Estimate
In total, updating to iOS 18 might take 30 minutes to over an hour. If you encounter any issues—like a slow internet connection or insufficient storage—the process could take even longer.
Factors That Can Impact Update Time
Device Age and Performance
The age of your device plays a big role in how quickly the update installs. Older devices with slower processors and less RAM often take longer to handle updates. For example, an iPhone 13 might breeze through the process, while an iPhone 8 could lag a bit.
Storage capacity also comes into play. If your device is nearly full, it may take longer to create the temporary files required for the update. In some cases, you may even need to clear storage before proceeding.
Internet Speed
The time it takes to download the update largely depends on your internet connection. On a fast Wi-Fi network, you might finish downloading in 10–20 minutes. However, a slower connection could stretch this step to an hour or more. Using mobile data instead of Wi-Fi can also introduce delays and may cost extra, depending on your data plan.
Apple Server Load
When Apple releases a major update, millions of users try to download it simultaneously. This can overwhelm Apple’s servers, slowing down download speeds for everyone. If you’re updating within the first 24–48 hours of the release, you might encounter longer wait times.
Tips to Speed Up the iOS 18 Update
From years of updating iOS devices, I’ve learned a few tricks to streamline the process:
1. Update During Off-Peak Hours
When a new iOS version drops, everyone rushes to download it. If possible, wait until late at night or early in the morning to start your update. Fewer people will be online, and Apple’s servers will likely be less congested.
2. Use a Reliable Wi-Fi Connection
A stable, fast Wi-Fi connection is essential for a quick update. If your Wi-Fi is slow or unstable, consider moving closer to the router or temporarily switching to a faster network. Avoid using public Wi-Fi, as it may be both slower and less secure.
3. Free Up Space in Advance
Updates require temporary storage for unpacking files, so make sure you have at least 5–10 GB of free space. Delete unused apps, old photos, or videos you’ve already backed up. You can also offload apps temporarily; this removes the app but retains its data for easy reinstallation.
4. Keep Your Device Charged
Nothing disrupts an update like a dead battery. Make sure your device is plugged in or has at least 50% charge before you start the update. This ensures uninterrupted installation and prevents potential issues.
My Personal Experience with iOS Updates
I remember when iOS 15 was released. I was so excited to try out the new features that I started the update during my lunch break. Big mistake! The download took forever on my office’s Wi-Fi, and my phone restarted mid-conversation with a colleague. By the time the update was finished, I’d missed an important meeting notification.
Since then, I’ve learned to plan updates more strategically. I now schedule them for late evenings when I can leave my phone alone and let it do its thing without interruptions. For iOS 18, I followed all the tips I’ve shared here, and the entire process took just under 40 minutes—a personal best!
Enjoy Better iOS
So, how long does the iOS 18 update take? On average, you’re looking at 30 minutes to an hour, but factors like your device’s age, internet speed, and Apple server load can make a difference. By preparing in advance and following these tips, you can make the process faster and less stressful.
Have you updated to iOS 18 yet? How long did it take for you? Share your experience—we’d love to hear it!