To download and install iOS on your iPhone 5s, you will use the built-in Software Update feature. It's important to note that the iPhone 5s has a specific maximum supported iOS version, which is iOS 12.5.7. Therefore, when you attempt to update, your device will only offer the highest compatible version for it, not the absolute latest iOS available for newer iPhones.
Updating your iPhone 5s to the latest available iOS version for your device is a straightforward process performed directly on your phone.
- Access Settings: From your iPhone's Home screen, tap the Settings icon.
- Navigate to General: Scroll down the Settings menu and tap General.
- Open Software Update: Tap Software Update. Your iPhone will then connect to Apple's servers to check for any available updates compatible with your iPhone 5s.
- Choose and Install Update:
- If you see more than one software update option available, choose the one that you want to install.
- Tap Install Now.
- If you see Download and Install instead, tap it to download the update first. You may be prompted to enter your device's passcode to authorize the download.
- Once the download is complete, tap Install Now to begin the installation process.
Your iPhone will then prepare the update, verify it, and restart to complete the installation. Ensure your device is connected to power during this final phase to prevent interruptions.
Important Considerations Before Updating Your iPhone 5s
Before you begin the update process, it's crucial to prepare your device to ensure a smooth and successful installation.
- Maximum iOS Version: As mentioned, the iPhone 5s is not compatible with the most current versions of iOS (e.g., iOS 15, 16, or 17). Its highest supported operating system is iOS 12.5.7. Any update offered will be within this compatibility limit.
- Pre-Update Checklist: To prevent common issues during the update, review the following checklist:
| Checklist Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Battery Level | Ensure your iPhone has at least a 50% battery charge. Ideally, connect your device to a power source for the entire duration of the update process to avoid it running out of power. |
| Wi-Fi Connection | You must be connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. iOS updates are typically large files and cannot be downloaded over cellular data. |
| Storage Space | Verify that you have sufficient free storage on your device. Software updates often require several gigabytes. You can check your available space by going to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. If needed, consider offloading unused apps or deleting old media. |
| Backup Your Device | While not strictly required for the update to proceed, it is highly recommended to back up your iPhone to iCloud or your computer (using Finder on Mac or iTunes on PC) before installing any major software update. This safeguards your data in case of unforeseen issues. |
- Troubleshooting Tips: If the update option doesn't appear, the download is stuck, or the installation fails, try the following:
- Ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal.
- Check that you have enough available storage.
- Restart your iPhone and try the update again.
- Consider connecting your iPhone to a computer and attempting the update via Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (macOS Mojave or earlier, or Windows PC).
Why Keep Your iPhone 5s Updated (to its Max)?
Even if your iPhone 5s cannot run the absolute latest iOS versions, keeping it updated to iOS 12.5.7 is crucial for several reasons:
- Security Patches: Updates often include vital security fixes that protect your device from new vulnerabilities and threats.
- Bug Fixes: Software updates resolve various bugs and glitches, improving overall system stability and performance.
- App Compatibility: Staying on the highest supported iOS version helps ensure continued compatibility with many apps that still support older iOS releases.
