Steps To Fix iOS 14 / iPadOS 14 OTA Install Stuck On Preparing Update In 2020

Here is how you can easily fix iOS 14 stuck on the preparing update screen on iPhone or iPod touch. The same instructions in a step by step guide below apply to fix the iPadOS 14 OTA stuck on the “preparing update” issue on iOS tablets.

Apple has finally released the full and final version of its latest mobile firmware. The iOS 14 is now available to download and install on all compatible devices worldwide.

However, as is often the case with a new major operating system update, things may turn in unexpected directions during the installation process.

If you’re among the unfortunate ones who are having a difficulty in installing the iOS 14 or iPadOS 14 on your iPhone or iPad due to the process getting stuck on the Preparing Update screen, here is a solution to fix the problem instantly.

ios 14 install stuck

How To Fix iOS 14 And iPadOS 14 Installation Stuck On “Preparing Update” Screen:

Millions of users try to install iOS firmware roughly at the same time whenever a new update becomes available. This sudden surge in download activity puts Apple’s servers under duress due to excessive workload. When this happens, the process gets interrupted, stuck, or freeze on a particular screen when installing the update over the air. If you’re facing a similar situation, here’s an easy fix for you.

Step 1 – Launch the Settings app on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.

Step 2 – Now scroll down and tap on General.

Step 3 – Go to iPhone Storage or iPad Storage.

Step 4 – On the resulting list that shows up, tap on iOS 14 or iPadOS 14 entry to select the iOS OTA update file.

Step 5 – Next, you need to hit the Delete button to remove the update from your device.

Step 6 – Once done, reboot your iOS device.

Step 7 – After the restart, head over to Settings > General > Software Update and wait for the software update to appear on the screen.

Step 8 – Now tap on Download and Install to repeat the update process all over again.

Step 9 – That’s all. This time the iOS 14 final update should go through smoothly.

Final Words

While it is understandable that many would not be too pleased to learn that they have to perform the whole update from scratch as it takes up a lot of time, but it should come as a relief that at least you’re getting rid of the pesky Preparing Update issue.

Despite the repeated occurrence of the same issue every year when Apple pushes the final version of a new iOS firmware to the public, this remains the only reliable fix to address the issue.

Apple’s servers will be inundated with high update activity during the first couple of days. If you want to avoid such hiccups, it is better to wait until the initial frenzy subsides and download speeds return to their normal pace.

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