iOS 18 Update Paused? Why and 6 Fixes 

Clare Phang
Last updated: Sep 20, 2024

In this guide, we’ll look at what to do if your iOS 18 update gets paused and won’t continue.

Many users are eager to experience the latest features of iOS 18, but some have run into a frustrating issue: the iOS update keeps pausing and refuses to finish. This issue is hotly discussed on forums like Apple Community and Reddit.

If you're facing the same problem and don't know what to do, refer to this post guide. Here, we’ll explain why your iOS 18 update might be paused and provide simple solutions to get it back on track.

iOS 18 Update Paused? Why and 6 Fixes 

Why Does My iOS 18 Update Keep Pausing?

Here are some common causes for the iOS 18 update paused issue:

Now that you understand why the iOS 18 update is paused, let's look at how to unpause the iOS 18 update and resume the process.

How to Unpause iOS 18 Update

If your iOS 18 update is paused, don’t worry—there are several easy steps you can follow to resolve the issue and get the update back on track.

Solution 1. Ensure a Stable Internet Connection

A reliable and stable internet connection is critical for a successful iOS update. If your Wi-Fi is unstable, the download might slow down or pause altogether, leading to the message that your iOS update has paused.

Here’s how to check and fix your network:

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
  2. Tap Wi-Fi and make sure you're connected to a stable network.
  3. If the connection is weak, switch to a stronger Wi-Fi network or try resetting your network settings.

To reset network settings:

  1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
  2. Enter your passcode and confirm.

Once your iPhone reconnects to Wi-Fi, try resuming the update.

reset-network-settings-iphone.png

Solution 2. Charge Your iPhone

iOS updates require at least 20% of battery power. If your battery is low, the update will pause to prevent issues.

To avoid download interruptions, ensure your iPhone is fully charged or connected to a power source while updating. This will help prevent the iOS 18 update from pausing due to a low battery.

Solution 3. Delete the iOS 18 Beta Update File

If you previously installed the iOS 18 beta, it could interfere with the official iOS 18 update, causing the process to pause. Make sure to delete the beta profile before updating to the final release of iOS 18.

To delete the iOS 18 beta update file:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to General > iPhone Storage.
  3. Find iOS (18 Beta) and tap Delete Update.
Delete iOS 18 Update

Once the beta update file is removed, try updating to iOS 18 again.

Solution 4. Restart Your iPhone

If the iOS 18 update remains paused, try restarting your iPhone. This can often resolve temporary glitches that cause the update to pause.

Solution 5. Free Up Your iPhone Storage

If your iPhone’s storage is nearly full, the iOS update might pause. Make sure you have enough free space to allow the iOS 18 update to install properly. Typically, you should have at least 5–10 GB of available storage for the update.

To check and free up storage:

  1. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
  2. Delete unnecessary apps, files, or media to free up space.

For more tips, check out our guide on how to clear system data on iPhone.

Solution 6. Fix iOS 18 Bugs

If your iOS update is still paused despite these efforts, you might be dealing with a more significant issue related to iOS 18 itself. In such cases, you can use professional iOS repair tools like BuhoRepair.

BuhoRepair can help fix bugs and issues with iOS 18 updates and even allow you to upgrade or downgrade your device’s iOS version.

DownloadFor macOS 10.10 and above
100,000+ Satisfied Users Worldwide

Follow these steps to repair your iPhone using BuhoRepair:

  1. Download and install BuhoRepair.
  2. Connect your iPhone to your computer using an original USB cable.
  3. Select iOS System Repair.
    BuhoRepair
  4. Select Standard Repair > Repair Now.
    BuhoRepair Standard Repair
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.

After completing the repair, your iPhone should be updated to the latest iOS 18 version without issues.

FAQs about iOS 18 Update

Question 1: How Do I Force Quit an iOS Update That Won’t Finish?

If your iOS update is stuck and won’t finish, you can force quit the update and try again.

Question 2: How Do I Cancel or Stop the iOS 18 Update?

To pause or stop the iOS 18 update:

  1. If the update is downloading, disconnect your iPhone from Wi-Fi.
  2. If the download is finished, select Later instead of proceeding with the installation.
  3. If the installation of iOS 18 is in progress, force restart your iPhone.
  4. Turn off automatic updates in Settings.

Final Thoughts

This guide covers the main reasons for the “iOS 18 update paused” issue and provides practical solutions to help you resume the update. If you're still experiencing the problem, restart your iPhone or contact Apple Support for further assistance.

Clare Phang has been captivated by the world of Apple products since the launch of the iconic iPhone in 2007. With a wealth of experience, Clare is your go-to source for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and all things Apple.