Updating your iPhone should be quick and easy — but sometimes, things go wrong. If your iPhone 7 is stuck on “Checking for Update” and won’t move forward, don’t worry. Here’s a full guide to help you fix it and finally get that iOS update installed.
Why Your iPhone 7 Gets Stuck on “Checking for Update”
Several things can cause this problem:
- Apple servers are temporarily down: If so, there’s nothing you can do but wait. Check Apple’s System Status page — you want a green light next to iOS updates.
- Internet connection issues: A weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection can interrupt the update process.
- Old beta profiles: If you previously installed an iOS beta, it can block official updates.
- Software glitches or network misconfigurations: Corrupt settings can cause update errors.
How to Fix iPhone 7 “Checking for Update” Issue
Follow these steps in order — you might fix it in just a few minutes!
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Your iPhone needs a strong Wi-Fi connection to check for and download updates.
Refresh your Wi-Fi connection:
- Go to Settings → Wi-Fi, toggle it OFF, then ON again.
- Or, reboot your router to reset the internet connection.
Make sure you’re not on a weak or public network that might block Apple servers.
2. Restart or Force Restart Your iPhone
Simple but effective — rebooting clears temporary bugs.
To restart:
- Hold the Power button until Slide to Power Off appears.
- Swipe to power off.
- After 30 seconds, turn the phone back on.
To force restart (if frozen):
- Press and hold the Power button + Volume Down button at the same time.
- Keep holding until you see the Apple logo.
3. Reset Network Settings
If your Wi-Fi or cellular settings are messed up, this can fix it.
To reset network settings:
- Go to Settings → General → Reset → Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- Confirm the reset.
Note: You’ll have to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords afterward.
4. Delete Any iOS Beta Profiles
Beta versions can block the official iOS updates.
To remove a beta profile:
- Go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management (or Profiles).
- Tap on the beta profile and Delete Profile.
- Restart your iPhone.
Now go back to Settings → General → Software Update and check again.
5. Update Your iPhone Through iTunes
If nothing works on the phone itself, use iTunes (or Finder on Mac).
Here’s how:
- Make sure your computer has the latest version of iTunes installed.
- Connect your iPhone to the computer with a Lightning cable.
- Open iTunes and trust the computer if asked.
- Select your iPhone in iTunes, then click Summary → Check for Update.
- Follow the prompts to Download and Update.
What to Do if Your iPhone Still Won’t Update
If your iPhone remains stuck:
- Try a Recovery Mode Restore or DFU Mode Restore using iTunes. (This wipes and reloads iOS from scratch.)
- If that still doesn’t work, contact Apple Support. You could be dealing with a more serious software or hardware problem.