- Download and install the iOS repair tool on your PC.
- Afterward, launch the software and start connecting your device.
- Select Standard Mode on the next screen and download a firmware package once connected.
- Finally, install the downloaded firmware on your iPhone by clicking the Next button.
Updating your iPhone is supposed to be a simple task, but sometimes things don't go as planned. Imagine eagerly waiting for your iPhone to finish updating, only to find it completely frozen during the process. This frustrating experience can leave you feeling helpless and unsure of what to do next. When your iPhone freezes during an update, it becomes stuck in a state where it's unable to complete the installation of the new software. This can happen for various reasons, such as insufficient storage space, unstable internet connection, or software glitches. Regardless of the cause, dealing with a frozen iPhone can be overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with troubleshooting techniques. In this guide, we'll explore why my iPhone froze while updating and provide simple solutions to help you get your device back up and running smoothly.
Why Does the iPhone Freeze During an Update in iOS 16/17?
Here are some simple explanations for why an iPhone froze while updating to iOS 16/17:
- Insufficient iPhone Storage: If your iPhone doesn't have enough space to accommodate the updated files, it might freeze during the process. This is because the update requires space to store temporary files and install the new software.
- Weak Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is crucial for downloading the updated files. The update process may halt if your connection is weak or intermittent, causing your iPhone to freeze.
- Software Compatibility Issues: Sometimes, certain apps or settings on your iPhone might not be compatible with the new iOS version. This can lead to conflicts during the update process, resulting in freezing.
- Battery Issues: If your iPhone's battery is low or experiencing problems, it may struggle to complete the update process. In some cases, the update may freeze due to insufficient power.
- Software Glitches: Occasionally, software bugs or glitches within the iOS update itself can cause the iPhone update process to freeze on your iPhone.
- Corrupted Data: Corrupted files are also one of the reasons why your iPhone frozen on Apple logo during update. This usually happens when you install third-party apps that are not safe, or you have corrupted old data.
How Long Does the iOS 16/17 Update Take Long?
The duration of the iOS 16/17 update may vary depending on several factors. These factors include the internet speed, your device's processing power, and the update's size. For example, if the iOS 16/17 contains about 2.6 GB, the update may take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour or more to complete, depending on the abovementioned factors. However, the iPhone iOS update can be frustrating because it doesn't show a percentage or any other indicator to let you know if the update is still happening or if your iPhone stuck on the update screen requested. You can only see a progress bar, which makes it difficult to notice any progress. Therefore, if you notice it takes too long, your iPhone freezes or encounters an error during the update iOS process.
Fix iPhone Frozen Error With This Five Troubleshooting Methods
Method 1. Force Restart iPhone to Fix Frozen Screen
Force restarting your iPhone can usually fix normal device errors such as freezing during an update or an iPhone stuck in the Hello screen. This is because it helps reset the device's system, potentially resolving any temporary glitches or conflicts causing the freeze. When you force restart, it's like giving your iPhone a quick refresh, allowing it to start over and resume regular operation. This simple action can often break through the frozen state and get your iPhone back on track, enabling it to continue the software update process smoothly. Here are the steps to force restart iPhone with different iPhone models:
iPhone 6/6s and earlier models:
- Press and hold the Home key (the circular button below the screen) and the Sleep/Wake key (located on the top or right side of the device) simultaneously.
- Keep holding both buttons until you see the Apple logo appear on the screen. After that, release the buttons and allow your iPhone to restart.
iPhone 7/7 Plus:
- Press and hold the Volume Down button (on the left side of the iOS device) and the Sleep/Wake key (located on the right side) simultaneously.
- Continue holding both keys until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Afterward, release the buttons and wait for your iPhone to restart.
iPhone 8 or later models (including iPhone SE 2nd generation):
- Push and release the Volume up button quickly (located on the left side of the device). And do the same with the Volume Down button (also located on the left side).
- Push and hold the Side button or Sleep/Wake button on the right side until the Apple logo pops up on the screen. Then, free the Side button and wait for your iPhone to restart.
Method 2. Use Professional iOS Repair Tool (No Data Loss)
If you want to ensure your iPhone can be fixed immediately, using a professional tool like AceThinker iOS System Recovery is the best for this issue. AceThinker iOS System Recovery is one of the best software that can restore your iOS devices to normal function. If your iPhone froze during update and won't turn off, you can quickly fix it with its two recovery modes. One is the Standard Mode; you can use this recovery mode to save all your data on your iPhone. Also, this mode can solve various iOS system issues. On the other hand, Advanced Mode can fix iOS-related problems that are more severe. However, this repair mode can lead to data loss because it can erase all the data on your device. So, whatever you choose from the efficient recovery modes, AceThinker can ensure that your iOS devices can be fixed with a few clicks and return your phone to normal. Moreover, this software is compatible with iOS devices, Windows, and Mac.
Try it for Free
Step 1. Connect Your Mobile Phone
To begin with, you need to download the software and install it on your computer. You can use the download buttons above to get the tool's file. Then, proceed to the installation process by following the instructions on your screen. Once done, launch the system repair tool and link your mobile phone to your PC using a lightning wire
Step 2. Select Standard Repair
Once your device is connected, proceed to the selection of repair mode by clicking the Fix button. Since this troubleshooting method avoids losing data, select the Standard Mode instead of Advanced Mode. Then, click the Confirm button to verify your action.
Step 3. Get a Firmware Package
On the next screen, you will see all the downloadable firmware packages. Choose the firmware that has the recent iOS version. You click the Download button beside it to start the downloading process.
Step 4. Install the Downloaded Package
Once the firmware download is done, click the Next button below to start the installation of the firmware on your iPhone. This will also begin updating your iPhone to the latest version or iOS 16/17 version. After the update process, check if your iPhone is updated in iOS 16/17 and the issue has been resolved.
Method 3. Put iPhone into Recovery Mode
When your iPhone freezes during an update, it might be because the software installation process is interrupted or corrupted. Putting your iPhone into Recovery Mode helps fix this issue by allowing iTunes to restore your device's operating system to a stable state. Recovery Mode bypasses the normal boot process and enables iTunes to communicate directly with your iPhone, facilitating the reinstallment of the iOS software. This process can overwrite any problematic software files and reset your device to a functional state, resolving the freezing problem and enabling you to complete the update successfully. However, this troubleshooting method can lead to data loss. So, it is important to have a backup of your device before attempting to resolve any update issues in Recovery Mode.
User Guide:
- First, link your iPhone to the computer using a USB cable. Next, open iTunes or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later). Make sure that you have the latest version of iTunes. After that, force restart your device,
For iPhone 8 or later: Press the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down key. Hold down the Side key until the recovery mode screen appears.
For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Hold the down-volume and Sleep/Wake keys until the recovery mode screen appears.
For iPhone 6s or earlier: Hold the Home and Sleep/Wake buttons together until you see the recovery mode screen.
- Then, follow the on-screen prompts in iTunes or Finder to restore or update your iPhone. This process erases all data, so ensure you have a backup.
Method 4. Restore iPhone via iTunes
Restoring your iPhone via iTunes is necessary to fix an iPhone froze during update because it completely reinstalls the iOS software on your device. When an update freezes, it often indicates a software issue that needs a thorough fix. Using iTunes lets you download and install a fresh copy of the iOS software, replacing any corrupted files causing the freeze. This process cleanses your iPhone of problematic data and settings, giving it a fresh start. Once the restoration is complete, your iPhone should be free from the freezing issue and ready to use with the latest iOS versions, which is the iOS 16/17. However, this process erases all the existing data and settings on your iPhone, including the problematic update files, and replaces them with a fresh copy of the iOS software. Also, the process can be time-consuming, especially if you have a lot of data to restore. If you want to try this solution, follow the guide below.
User Guide:
- First, launch iTunes on your computer and ensure it is the latest version. Next, get a lightning cable and use it to make a connection between your device and PC.
- Once your iPhone is successfully connected, click the Mobile icon on the upper-left corner of the iTunes main interface. Next, go to the Summary tab to find the restoration and backup options.
- Under your iPhone information, click on the Restore iPhone option and confirm the action. Next, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process. After the restore process, set up your iPhone as a new device or restore from a backup.
Method 5. Contact Apple Support
Suppose your iPhone is frozen during an update due to a hardware issue. In that case, contacting Apple Support is crucial for expert assistance in resolving the issue. Apple Support specialists have the knowledge and tools to diagnose the problem accurately and provide tailored solutions. They can guide you through specific methods to "my iPhone is frozen during update" scenarios, ensuring you take the right actions without risking further damage to your device. Additionally, suppose the problem persists despite your efforts. In that case, Apple Support can arrange for further assistance, such as in-person appointments or device replacements if necessary, to ensure your iPhone returns to working condition as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will force restarting iPhone delete my data?
No, force restarting your iPhone should not delete your data. It simply quickly resets the device's system, which can help resolve temporary glitches without affecting your data.
Will Apple replace my iPhone if it freezes during an update and cannot be fixed?
Suppose your iPhone experiences hardware issues that prevent it from updating or functioning correctly, and it's still under warranty or covered by AppleCare. In that case, Apple may provide a replacement device. Contact Apple Support for assistance in such cases.
How do you prevent the iPhone from freezing during future updates?
Ensure your iPhone has enough storage space, a stable connection, and is updated to the latest iOS version before attempting updates. Avoid interrupting the update process once it's initiated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, experiencing your iPhone freezing during an update can be frustrating. Still, you can take steps to resolve the issue and prevent it from happening in the future. Force restarting your device, utilizing the iOS system repair tool, or restoring it via iTunes can often fix the problem. Still, contacting Apple Support is important if you need help to resolve it. To avoid this issue, ensure your iPhone has enough storage space before updating, maintain a stable internet connection, and regularly update your device to the latest iOS version. By following these tips, you can minimize the chances of your iPhone freezing during updates and ensure a smoother experience with your device.
