Preparing for the iOS 7 Update

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On Wednesday, September 18, Apple plans to release iOS 7, a software update for iPhone 4, 4S, 5, iPad 2, 3, 4, and mini. It will also be available for iPod touch, 5th generation.

There are a few things to do before installing the update on your iOS device. See below for more information.

 

What steps do I need to take?

  1. Update any Apps. Many software developers have released updates to their apps to make them compatible with the new OS. In some cases, not updating an app might make it necessary for you to log into the app again after you update your device's OS, which can be inconvenient. (See steps below.)

  2. Backup your device. Before you update, make a backup of your iOS device. The best way to back up is by using iTunes, which makes a complete backup of your mobile device on the computer with which you normally sync. Backing up helps to prevent data loss if an OS update goes wrong.

  3. Run the update. After you have decided to update your device, perform the update. (See steps below.)

  4. Update iTunes on your computer. In years past, Apple releases a new version of iTunes around the same time it releases a new version of iOS. If you sync your device with iTunes, then after you have updated to iOS 7, launch iTunes on your home computer and install the update if prompted.

To perform an App update:

  1. Open the App Store app.
  2. Touch Updates.
  3. Read the description next to the update.
  4. Touch Update, across from the app name.

Note: Alternatively, touch Update All to update all apps at once. (Large apps require a Wi-Fi connection to perform updates.)

To perform the iOS 7 update:

  1. Connect to Wi-Fi.
  2. Connect your device to power.
  3. Touch Settings > General > Software Update.
  4. Touch Download and Install.

Note: If these steps aren't available on your device, you may need to connect your it to iTunes to perform the iOS 7 update.