iPhone 13 Unable to Check for Update? Here’s How to Fix It
If your iPhone 13 says “Unable to Check for Update” when you try to download the latest iOS version, don’t worry — it’s a common issue. This guide will walk you through all the ways to troubleshoot the problem so you can get your phone updated without a hitch.
1. Close All Background Apps
Apps running in the background can sometimes interfere with system processes like update checks.
Here’s how to force close them:
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold to open the App Switcher.
- Swipe up on each app preview to close it.
- Once all apps are closed, go back to Settings > General > Software Update and try again.
2. Restart Your iPhone
A quick reboot can clear out minor system glitches that might be blocking the update.
To restart your iPhone 13:
- Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button until the power slider appears.
- Drag the slider to turn off the phone.
- Wait 30 seconds, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
- After restarting, try checking for the update again.
3. Toggle Wi-Fi or Try Airplane Mode Trick
If your internet connection is spotty, your iPhone might not be able to connect to Apple’s update servers.
First, try turning Wi-Fi off and back on:
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, toggle it off, wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.
Still not working? Try the Airplane Mode trick:
- Go to Settings > Airplane Mode, toggle it on.
- Restart your iPhone while Airplane Mode is enabled.
- After reboot, go back and turn off Airplane Mode.
- Reconnect to Wi-Fi and try checking for the update again.
4. Forget and Reconnect to Wi-Fi Network
A corrupted Wi-Fi connection could be the culprit.
To forget and rejoin your Wi-Fi network:
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Tap the (i) next to your connected network.
- Tap Forget This Network and confirm.
- Restart your iPhone, go back to Wi-Fi, and reconnect using the correct password.
5. Reset Network Settings
If your iPhone’s network settings are messed up, resetting them can help.
Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode and confirm.
- Your iPhone will restart. Reconnect to your Wi-Fi and try updating again.
6. Use iTunes or Finder to Update
If over-the-air (OTA) updates aren’t working, you can update your iPhone using a computer.
Using iTunes (Windows or older macOS):
- Connect your iPhone via Lightning cable.
- Open iTunes and click the iPhone icon.
- Go to Summary > Check for Update.
- Click Download and Update if one is available.
Using Finder (macOS Catalina or later):
- Plug in your iPhone and open Finder.
- Select your device in the sidebar.
- Click General > Check for Update.
- If there’s an update, click Update to install it.
7. Delete iOS Beta Profile (If Applicable)
If you’re using an iOS beta, your phone might not detect regular updates.
To remove the beta profile:
- Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.
- Tap iOS Beta Software Profile.
- Tap Remove Profile, then restart your iPhone.
- After rebooting, check for the update again.
8. Check Apple System Status
Sometimes the problem is on Apple’s end. If their servers are down, your phone won’t be able to check for updates.
To check:
- Visit Apple’s System Status page.
- Look for iOS Software Update — if there’s a yellow or red dot, the service is having issues.
If it’s a server issue, your best bet is to wait a few hours and try again.