When your iPhone or iPad shows “Update Requested,” it simply means the device is preparing to download a new software version from Apple’s servers. This message appears after you tap “Download and Install” in the software update section. It’s part of the normal update process and doesn’t always mean something is wrong.
However, many users worry when this message stays for a long time without progress. It’s important to know when to wait and when to act.
Why Your iPhone Says “Download and Install Requested”?
- After tapping “Download and Install”
- When your device checks Apple’s servers
- If your phone is waiting for Wi-Fi or power
- During high traffic on Apple’s update servers
- If your storage is nearly full
Your device is trying to begin the update process. But if anything blocks it—like a weak signal or low battery—it will stay in this “requested” state.
What Does It Really Mean?
This status means the update is in line to begin. It’s like being in a queue. Your phone has asked Apple’s servers for the update, but it hasn’t started downloading yet. The request might be delayed by background processes or server load.
So “Update Requested” is a waiting phase—not an error. Your phone is getting ready but hasn’t moved forward yet.
How Long Does It Usually Take?
In most cases, it only takes a few minutes—between 1 to 10. But sometimes, delays happen due to:
- Weak Wi-Fi connection
- Apple’s servers being busy
- Not enough free storage space
- Low battery or power-saving mode
If it lasts more than 15 minutes, you might need to try basic troubleshooting.
Is Your iPhone Stuck on “Download and Install Requested”?
If the message stays for over 20 minutes with no sign of progress, your phone might be stuck. This happens more often during major iOS releases or when millions of users try to update at once.
Many users report problems like this:
“My iPhone has been showing ‘Update Requested’ for 30 minutes. Nothing’s happening. What do I do now?”
This is a signal that the process needs help.
How to Fix iPhone Stuck on “Download and Install Requested”
Try these steps to move past the message:
- Restart your device: a fresh start helps.
- Check your Wi-Fi: use a strong, stable signal.
- Plug into power: updates need enough battery.
- Free up space: delete large files or apps temporarily.
- Cancel the update: go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage > find the update > delete it.
- Try again or use a computer: you can update via iTunes or Finder if wireless updating fails.
Each step helps your phone prepare better for the update and rejoin the download process.
Should You Wait or Cancel?
Waiting is okay for a short time. But if the screen stays unchanged for more than 15–20 minutes, it’s better to stop the update and start over. Canceling doesn’t hurt your phone. It just clears the request so you can try again fresh.
Other Update Messages You Might See
Here’s a quick guide to other messages you might notice:
| Message | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Preparing Update | Your device is downloading or checking files |
| Verifying Update | It’s making sure the update is valid |
| Update Failed | Something went wrong with the process |
| Update Installed | The update finished and is now active |
These messages help track where you are in the update path.
How to Avoid Problems Next Time?
- Keep at least 2GB of free space
- Use a fast and stable Wi-Fi network
- Charge your phone above 50% before starting
- Avoid peak times right after a new iOS release
- Make regular backups using iCloud or iTunes
These steps prevent errors and speed up future updates.
When to Contact Apple Support?
If your device stays stuck for more than an hour or keeps showing errors, it’s time to contact Apple Support. You can visit the Genius Bar or start a live chat. They can guide you through advanced fixes or offer a clean install.
Final Thoughts
“Update Requested” is a normal part of the iOS update process. It just means your device is getting in line to download. Most of the time, it clears up on its own. If not, the steps above are safe and easy to follow.
Still stuck? Try restarting, freeing space, or updating through a computer. Don’t stress—it’s usually an easy fix.
If this helped, feel free to leave a comment or share this with someone who’s facing the same issue.