iOS updates bring new features, performance improvements, and the latest bug fixes. However, sometimes the iPhone may get stuck at “Estimating Time Remaining” during the update process. This error usually means Apple’s servers are unable to handle the heavy traffic they’re getting at that moment, so your device takes longer to communicate with the update servers. But that’s not the only cause iOS Update Stuck on “Estimating Time Remaining”. There are several possible reasons behind this issue, including slow or unstable internet connection, insufficient storage space, corrupted update files, and software glitches, all of which can prevent the iOS update progress bar from moving. Whatever the reason, if the iOS update screen seems stuck on “Estimated Time Remaining,” “Update Requested,” “Verifying Update,” or “Preparing to Update,” apply the solutions listed below.
Quick Links
- 1 Why iPhone update stuck on estimating time remaining?
- 1.1 Before You Try the Fixes — Wait a Few Minutes
- 1.2 Check Apple System Status (Server Overload)
- 1.3 Check Your Internet Connection
- 1.4 Free Up Storage Space
- 1.5 Force Restart Your iPhone
- 1.6 Delete the Stuck Update File & Re-download
- 1.7 Reset Network Settings
- 1.8 Update Using a Computer (iTunes/Finder)
- 1.9 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 1.10 Related Articles
Why iPhone update stuck on estimating time remaining?
An iOS update stuck on “Estimating Time Remaining” means the process is having trouble calculating how long the update will take. It can be due to several factors, including poor Wi-Fi, low storage space, or an issue with the update servers.
- Unstable or slow Wi-Fi: A weak connection can stall the download and installation process, preventing accurate time estimation. Again, a VPN connection can sometimes block or interfere with the update process.
- Insufficient storage: The update needs temporary space to unpack and install. If your device is low on space, the update may get stuck.
- Overloaded Apple servers: After a major iOS release, many users trying to download the update at once can lead to slower speeds and stalled processes.
- Corrupted Update File: If a previous download attempt started and was interrupted, the system may be trying to use an incomplete or outdated file, especially if a new version of the update has been released since.
Before You Try the Fixes — Wait a Few Minutes
Sometimes the update isn’t actually stuck, iOS may just be taking longer than usual to verify the update with Apple’s servers. When servers are busy or your network is slightly slow, the “Estimating Time Remaining” screen can stay for several minutes without moving.
Plug your iPhone into charging, keep it connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, and wait at least 10–15 minutes to see if the progress changes.
If the update bar has been frozen for several minutes and your iPhone is not responding, a simple restart often helps to solve the problem.
Check Apple System Status (Server Overload)
If you’re trying to install an update that Apple just released, the issue may be caused by a server outage or overloaded Apple update servers. When too many users try to update at the same time, Apple’s servers can become extremely busy, causing your device to get stuck at “Estimating Time Remaining.”
Check Apple’s System Status report for any server outages or issues, and try to update after a few hours, which will probably help fix the problem.
- Search “Apple System Status” on your browser.
- Check if iOS Device Update shows a green (normal) or yellow/red (issues) status.
- If busy or down, wait 1–2 hours and retry updating.
Check Your Internet Connection
A slow or unstable Wi-Fi connection can interrupt the download process and cause the update to freeze during the time estimation stage. Ensure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and is not using a personal hotspot, as this can interfere with the update process.
Your device needs a stable connection to communicate with Apple’s servers.
- Connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network.
- Restart your router/modem.
- Turn on Airplane Mode for 10 seconds, then turn it off.
- If possible, switch to another Wi-Fi network.
Again, move close to a stronger Wi-Fi or cellular signal. This can be quite effective when the download just won’t come in.
VPNs and proxy configurations can slow down your connection or interfere with Apple’s servers. Turning these off often resolves the issue quickly.
Free Up Storage Space
Insufficient storage is a common cause of update failures. iOS requires free space to download and unpack the update. Deleting old messages, photos, videos, and audio files that are no longer useful is another option to free up more space.
- Open Settings → General → iPhone Storage.
- Ensure at least 5–7 GB of free space is available.
- Delete unnecessary apps, large media files, and cache.
- Try the update again.
Additionally, confirm that your iPhone has at least 55% battery charge and is not in Low Power mode, as updates require sufficient power
Force Restart Your iPhone
Again, Temporary iOS glitches may prevent the update from moving forward. A force restart clears minor system errors without deleting any data.
Press Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
Delete the Stuck Update File & Re-download
If the update file was downloaded incorrectly or got corrupted, iOS won’t be able to verify it, result the iOS update stuck in the “Estimating Time Remaining”. Removing and re-downloading the update usually fixes this.
- Go to Settings → General → iPhone Storage.
- Scroll to find the iOS Update.
- Tap Delete Update, and restart your device.
Then go to Settings > General > Software Update and download the latest iOS update.
Reset Network Settings
Incorrect network settings, DNS problems, or old Wi-Fi data can block communication with Apple’s servers. Resetting network settings restores everything to default and clears network-related issues.
- Open Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap “Reset” and then choose “Reset Network Settings.”
- Now reconnect to your Wi-Fi networks and try update again.
Update Using a Computer (iTunes/Finder)
If the over-the-air update keeps getting stuck, updating via a computer bypasses many Wi-Fi and system glitches. This method downloads the update directly to your computer first.
- Connect your iPhone to your PC or Mac.
- Open iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave) or Finder (macOS Catalina+).
- Select your device.
- Click Check for Update → Download and Update.
- Wait for the process to complete.
If all else fails, contact Apple Support for further assistance. Also, you can use Third-party Tools like WooTechy iPhixer, Tenorshare ReiBoot, or UltFone System Repair can fix iOS system errors without deleting your data.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1: Why is my iPhone stuck on “Estimating Time Remaining”?
This usually happens due to slow internet, overloaded Apple servers, insufficient storage, or a corrupted update file preventing iOS from downloading or verifying the update.
2: How long should I wait on the “Estimating Time Remaining” screen?
Wait at least 10–15 minutes. If the progress doesn’t move after that, start troubleshooting.
3: Can a slow Wi-Fi connection cause the iOS update to freeze?
Yes. iOS updates require a stable, high-speed internet connection. Weak or fluctuating Wi-Fi can delay or stall the update.
4: Does deleting the update file fix the issue?
Yes. If the update file is corrupted, deleting and re-downloading it often resolves the “Estimating Time Remaining” problem.
5: What if none of the solutions work?
If the issue persists, try updating through a computer (iTunes/Finder) or use a trusted iOS system repair tool to fix deeper software problems.
