How to Download & Install the New iOS Update (iOS 17)

What to Know

  • Apple releases an iPhone Operating System update (iOS update) every fall.
  • The new iOS update, iOS 17, includes iPhone security improvements, bug fixes, and new features.
  • To get iOS 17, open Settings, tap General, Software Update, Download and Install, then complete the download and installation.

* This post is part of iPhone Life's Tip of the Day newsletter. . *

Enjoy the new iOS update: iOS 17! Here's how to download and install iOS 17 to enjoy all the new features on your iPhone.

How to Download & Install the New iOS Update, iOS 17 

It's time for iOS 17! The newest iOS update offers lots of exciting new things, like Live Transcripts of voicemail, live stickers made from your photos, the Journal app for digital journaling, and more. We'll show you how to download iOS 17 once it's available to take advantage of these cool new features. Check out our free Tip of the Day for more great iOS update tutorials.

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iOS 17 iPhones: Which iPhones Are Compatible with the New iOS Updates?

In addition to the newest iPhones, the following iPhone versions are capable of downloading and running iOS 17.

  • iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max
  • iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
  • iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
  • iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max
  • iPhone XR
  • iPhone SE 2nd generation, and iPhone SE 3rd generation

The iPad now uses iPadOS. Don't worry; it's just as easy to install, though iPadOS 17 is currently expected to release in October.

How to Update to iOS 17 on Your iPhone

Here's how to download the new iOS update:

  1. Back up your iPhone to iCloud or iTunes.
  2. Connect your iPhone to power and make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi. 
  3. Open the Settings app.

    Home screen with Settings app icon marked.
  4. Tap General.​


     
  5. Select Software Update.

    latest ios version
  6. Tap Download and Install.​

    Software Update screen with a pending update and the Download and Install button marked.
  7. This process will take a few minutes, and you'll see a Verifying Update notification.​
  8. Once the new operating system is finished downloading, tap Install Now.

    Software Update screen with a pending update and the and Install Now button marked.
  9. Agree to the Terms and Conditions.
  10. Your phone will power down, then power back up, and the new iOS update will install.
  11. Once your Lock Screen comes back up, unlock your iPhone.
  12. Follow any on-screen directions to complete the update.

FAQ

  • Is iOS 17 out? No, the new iOS update is not out yet; Apple will most likely release the latest iOS version after their September 2023 event. 
  • Should I update to iOS 17? Yes! Each new iOS update offers not only new features and improved performance, but also fixes bugs and improves iPhone security. It's also a good idea to learn about how to update your older iPhone safely, and what to expect when you do so.
  • Why is my iOS not updating to iOS 17? There are several reasons iOS won't update to iOS 17; we have a troubleshooting article called iPhone or iPad Won’t Update? How to Fix It to help you out. 

Welcome to iOS 17! We hope you enjoy the many exciting features made available to you and iPhone users everywhere! If you change your mind and decide you don't like the new software, you can always downgrade iOS versions.  

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Author Details

Conner Carey's picture

Author Details

Conner Carey

Conner Carey's writing can be found at conpoet.com. She is currently writing a book, creating lots of content, and writing poetry via @conpoet on Instagram. She lives in an RV full-time with her mom, Jan and dog, Jodi as they slow-travel around the country.