Are you having trouble updating to iOS 18.5 on your iPhone or iPad? Fret not, mate! Whether you’re stuck on “Verifying Update” or getting a strange error, you’re not alone. In this guide, I’m going to walk you through 8 effective fixes to get your device updated smoothly.
1. Check Compatibility
First things first — make sure your device supports iOS 18.5. iPhones starting from iPhone XR and newer, and iPads from the 7th-gen and up, are generally compatible.
2. Ensure Stable Internet Connection
Updates require a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection. Switch to a reliable Wi-Fi network and avoid using mobile data during the update process. If need be, forget the Wi-Fi network and reconnect to it.
- To get it done, launch the Settings app > Wi-Fi > Hit the Info icon next to the Wi-Fi network in question > tap Forget This Network and confirm.

- After that, reconnect to the Wi-Fi network and find out if you can install the update.

3. Free Up Storage Space
iOS updates often need several gigabytes of free space.
- On your iPhone, navigate to Settings > General > iPhone Storage and delete unused apps, large videos, or offload data to iCloud.

4. Charge Your Device
Your iPhone or iPad should have at least 50% battery or be connected to a charger during the update to avoid interruptions.
5. Restart Your Device
Sometimes, a simple restart can fix minor glitches related to software update on iOS.
- Simply, hold the Side and Volume Down buttons (or just the Top button on iPads) to power off, then turn your device back on and try updating again.

6. Delete the Previous Update File
If the update file is corrupted, it won’t install.
- Just, head over to Settings app on your iPhone > General > iPhone Storage, find iOS 18.5 in the list, tap it, and delete the file. Then go back and check for the update again.
7. Use iTunes or Finder to Update Manually
Still stuck? Plug your device into a Mac or PC.
- To do so, open Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (on older macOS or Windows), select your device, and choose Check for Update to install iOS 18.5 manually.

8. Reset Network Settings
If network issues persist, try resetting your network settings.
- On your iPhone, fire up the Settings app > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- Note that it won’t erase your data but will remove saved Wi-Fi passwords.

Wrap-Up:
And that’s it! One of these solutions should help you update to iOS 18.5 without a hitch. Now, feel free to share your feedback and the tips that have helped you get rid of the roadblock.