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You can update an iPhone from a Mac or Windows PC using Apple’s device-management app for that computer. Back up first, connect the iPhone to a trusted computer, then choose Update—not Restore. The exact app and button labels depend on your computer’s operating system and software version.
Choose the right app for your computer
| Computer | App to use | Update path |
|---|---|---|
| Mac with macOS Catalina or later | Finder | Select the iPhone in Finder’s sidebar, choose General, then Check for Update. |
| Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier | iTunes | Select the device button, choose Summary, then Check for Update. |
| Windows | Apple Devices app | Select the iPhone in the sidebar, choose General, then Update. If shown, choose Check for Update first. |
| Windows | iTunes | Select the iPhone, choose Summary, then Check for Update. |
Apple documents both Apple Devices and iTunes workflows for Windows; use the instructions matching the app installed on your PC. For iTunes workflows, Apple advises using the latest version of iTunes. See Apple’s iPhone update guidance and computer update instructions.
Prepare the iPhone and computer
- Back up the iPhone. Make a backup to iCloud or to the computer before beginning.
- Use a trusted computer. If the iPhone asks whether to trust the computer, unlock the phone and confirm the prompt.
- Arrange a connection. A compatible USB or USB-C cable can connect the devices, but check the iPhone and computer ports; an adapter may be needed. Apple documents Wi-Fi options for some workflows, so a cable is not mandatory in every case.
- Check the computer’s internet connection. If it is using the iPhone’s Personal Hotspot, connect the computer to another Wi-Fi or Ethernet network before updating.
Apple’s Finder and iTunes instructions describe connection options and cable or adapter compatibility.
Install the available update
- Open Finder, Apple Devices, or iTunes according to the table above.
- Connect the iPhone, or use Wi-Fi if that option is available for your setup. Unlock it and approve any trust prompt.
- Select the iPhone in the app and open the appropriate section: General in Finder or Apple Devices, or Summary in iTunes.
- Choose Check for Update when that control is shown. If an update is offered, choose Update or the displayed download-and-update control.
- Follow the onscreen instructions and allow the process to finish.
Apple describes the Finder route as an option when an iPhone cannot be updated wirelessly: “If you can’t update wirelessly on your device, you can update using the Finder on a computer that you trust.” See Apple’s Finder update article.
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#1 Best Overall
Sale
LAPGEAR Home Office Pro Lap Desk - Black Carbon, Fits 15.6” Laptops
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Update is not the same as Restore
For a routine iOS update, use Update. Restore is a separate operation; restoring an iPhone to factory settings deletes its information and settings. If you see a Restore control, do not select it as a substitute for Update. Apple explains this distinction in its Mac device-management guidance.
If the iPhone does not appear or the update fails
The iPhone is missing from the app
- Unlock the iPhone and respond to any Trust This Computer prompt.
- Disconnect and reconnect it, then check that the cable and ports are seated and working.
- Make sure macOS, Apple Devices, or iTunes is up to date.
- Use Apple’s device-recognition troubleshooting if it still does not appear.
An error appears during the update
Use the message or error code to find the relevant steps in Apple’s update and restore error guidance. Depending on the error, Apple’s checks may involve the connection, computer software, Apple’s servers, or third-party security software; there is no single fix that applies to every code.
Rank #2
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
The iPhone needs more space
Check available iPhone storage before deleting anything. If more space is needed, Apple advises removing content manually. Keep the backup intact so you can recover your data if needed.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 2
Best Value
Sale
LAPGEAR Home Office Lap Desk – Pink, Fits 15.6” Laptops
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Rank #4
AboveTEK Portable Laptop Lap Desk w/Retractable Left/Right Mouse Pad Tray, Non-Slip Heat Shield Tablet Notebook Computer Stand Table w/Sturdy Stable Work Surface for Bed Sofa Couch or Travel
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
Rank #3
Sale
Yilador Webcam Cover 3 Pack, 0.03 inch Ultra Thin Laptop Camera Cover Slide
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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