[100% Works] How to Fix Unable to Check for iOS 18 Update on iPhone?

"iPhone 13 running iOS 16.4.1 (a) is telling me there is a software update, but every time I try, I get the message 'Unable to check for update. An error occurred while checking for a software update'. Any ideas or fixes? My work iPhone X also gives me this message."

- from Reddit

With the release of iOS 18, many users have encountered the "unable to check for iOS 18 update on iPhone" issue when trying to update. This not only affects the experience of new features but can also be frustrating. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this issue and provide effective solutions to help you successfully update your iPhone.

Part 1. Why Unable to Check for iOS 18 Update on iPhone

If you encounter the "stuck on checking for updates on iPhone" issue during the update process, it is usually related to several factors. Understanding these reasons can help you quickly find a solution. Here are some possible causes:

• Apple System Status Issues: Apple's update servers may occasionally be down for maintenance or due to faults, preventing users from accessing the latest iOS version.
• Unstable Network Connection: Poor network connectivity can hinder the device's ability to connect with Apple servers, obstructing the update.
• Device Compatibility: Not all devices support the latest iOS 18 version; older devices may not be able to install iOS 18.
• Insufficient Storage Space: Lack of storage space on the device can cause the update process to fail, preventing the download of update files. (iPhone software update failed?)
• iOS Beta Profiles: If a beta profile is installed on the device, it may interfere with the normal update process, causing the system to fail to recognize the update.

Part 2. How to Fix Unable to Check for iOS 18 Update on iPhone

After understanding the possible causes of the "iPhone software update unable to check for update" issue, here are detailed solutions for each scenario.

Fix 1. Check Apple System Status

If your iPhone can't check for update, you should first visit Apple's System Status page to check if the update services are functioning properly. If there are issues with Apple's servers, you'll need to wait for them to be resolved.

Fix 2. Check Network Connection

The next solution to iPhone can't find update is to check the network connection. Make sure your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. If the Wi-Fi signal is weak, try switching to mobile data to see if that resolves the issue. If it still doesn't work, you can reset the network settings on your phone and then try again.

To reset the network settings, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Transfer or Reset iPhone".

Step 2. Select "Reset Network Settings" and enter your password to confirm.

Fix 3. Change to Google Public DNS

If your iPhone is stuck on checking for updates while other apps work fine, it's likely not a weak network issue. A helpful solution some users have found is switching to Google Public DNS. To do this, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "Wi-Fi".

Step 2. Tap the blue info icon next to your Wi-Fi network.

Step 3. Select "Configure DNS", choose "Manual", then tap "Add Server" and enter "8.8.8.8" or "8.8.4.4". Finally, select the DNS and click "Save".

Fix 4. Check Compatibility

If your iPhone 13 is unable to check for updates, you should make sure your iPhone 13 supports iOS 18. Here are the devices that support iOS 18:

Fix 5. Restart/Force Restart the iPhone

If iOS 18 unable to check for update is software-related, you can resolve it by simply restarting your iPhone, giving your device a fresh start.

To Restart the iPhone:

For iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, or later:

• Press and hold both the "Volume" button and the "Side" button until the power-off slider appears.
• Drag the slider to turn off your device, then wait about 30 seconds for it to power down.
• To turn your device back on, press and hold the "Side" button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone 6, 7, 8, or SE (2nd or 3rd generation):

• Press and hold the "Side" button until the power-off slider appears.
• Drag the slider to turn off your device, then wait about 30 seconds for it to shut down.
• To power your device back on, press and hold the "Side" button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone SE (1st generation), 5, or earlier:

• Press and hold the "Top" button until the power-off slider appears.
• Drag the slider to turn off your device, then wait about 30 seconds for it to shut down.
• To turn your device back on, press and hold the "Top" button until the Apple logo appears.

To Force Restart the iPhone:

• For iPhone 8 and later: Quickly press and release the "Volume Up" button, then the "Volume Down" button, and finally press and hold the "Power" button until the Apple logo appears.
• For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold the "Volume Down" button and the "Power" button together until the Apple logo appears.
• For iPhone 6 and earlier: Press and hold both the "Home" button and the "Power" button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.

Fix 6. Remove the iOS Beta Profile

If you've downloaded the iOS 18 beta version on your iPhone or iPad, a new iOS update won't appear in Settings. You'll need to delete the beta first before you can proceed with the update.

Here is how to delete a beta profile:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "General "> "Profiles".

Step 2. Find the beta profile, tap it, and select "Remove Profile".

Fix 7. Clear Storage Space

Sometimes, there isn't enough space on your iPhone to download and install the latest update, which can lead to iPhone software update unable to check for update. Therefore, you'll need to free up some space to proceed with the update.

Here is how to do it:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "General" > "iPhone Storage".

Step 2. Check the available storage and delete any unnecessary apps, photos, or videos.

Fix 8. Update iOS via iTunes

If your iPhone still can't check for update, you can use iTunes to update your iPhone. Here are the steps:

Step 1. Open iTunes on your computer and connect your iPhone.

Step 2. Select your device in iTunes.

Step 3. Click on "Check for Update", then follow the prompts to download and install the latest iOS version.

Part 3. One-click to Fix iPhone Stuck on Checking for Update

When you've tried all the above methods and your iPhone can't find an update, using a professional iOS system repair tool may be the ultimate and most effective choice. iOS System Recovery is specifically designed to fix iOS device system problems, quickly and safely resolving issues like iPhone freezes or inability to check for updates, all without worrying about data loss.

Highlights of iOS System Recovery:

• Fix iOS 18 unable to check for update without data loss.
• Repair a range of iPhone system issues, including boot loop problems, stuck on the Apple logo/recovery mode, black/white/blue/green screens, etc.
• Provide Standard Mode and Advanced Mode to meet users' different needs.
• Support all models of iPhone, compatible with the latest iOS versions, including iOS 18.

Free Download for PC

 

Free Download for Mac

Here is how to use iOS System Recovery to fix iPhone 13/14/15/16 unable to check for update:

Final Thoughts

When encountering the "iPhone can't check for update" issue, there's no need to worry too much. With the various methods provided in this article, you should be able to resolve the problem smoothly. If none of the methods work, consider trying the iOS System Recovery tool, which may surprise you!

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How to Update iPhone without iTunes in 3 New Approaches?