For some time, some iPhone users have been asking to control the download and installation of new versions of iOS. Apple has waited until the release of iOS 13.6 (and iPadOS 13.6) to add this functionality with which we can now choose what we want to do with them. This is a new setting for the user to make the decision about when to put them on their device.
How to prevent iOS updates from downloading and insisting on installation
First and obviously, we will need to install iOS or iPadOS 13.6 on our device. As soon as we have it ready, just follow these steps:
- On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings> General> Software update> Personalize automatic updates.
- There we will find two options.
- The first controls whether we want to download the new iOS versions automatically.
- The second indicates if we want those updates to be installed at night.
In the latter case, the iPhone will send you a notification so that you know that it will be updated overnight. It needs to be connected to the Wi-Fi network and charging for it to succeed.
As these functions are designed, we have three options: automatic download and installation; automatic download and manual installation; download disabled. The automatic download function is what determines whether we can use the second option or not, since the second option does not make sense without the first option.
Back to manual iOS updates
With this update, users now have more control over options when downloading and installing new software versions. In the past, users were able to choose what to do with updates, but not with downloads. If we deactivate all the options, we can decide when and how to do it.
Being able to control when new software is downloaded can be useful for those who have little space on the device. Especially older iPhone or iPad models that only have 16GB or 32GB of storage. Now, the system will not fill a space that is highly valued on these computers.
It is also an advantage for those users who do not want to update quickly and prefer to wait a few days. Or they prefer not to do it for as long as possible, for whatever reason. Of course, withholding updates is a security risk.
From Applesfera we recommend keeping the devices with their software up to date. In addition to adding new features and fixing bugs, Apple fixes big and small security issues pretty quickly (and regularly). A fact that is increasingly relevant in the face of increased pressure to “penetrate” the apple devices.