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To update an iPhone with Apple Devices on Windows 11, select the iPhone in the app’s sidebar, open General, and choose Update. If needed, select Check for Update first. You can connect by USB or USB-C, or use Wi-Fi if the devices are already set up for Wi-Fi syncing.

Back up the iPhone before updating if its data matters. Apple Devices can make a backup on your PC, and an encrypted backup requires a password you must keep safe.

What you need

  • A Windows PC with Apple Devices installed
  • An iPhone you can select in Apple Devices
  • Either a USB or USB-C connection, or Wi-Fi syncing set up between the devices
  • If connecting by cable, a cable compatible with both the iPhone and PC

A cable is not required when using Wi-Fi, but a wired connection is a straightforward choice if Wi-Fi syncing is not set up.

Install Apple Devices on Windows

  1. Open the Microsoft Store from the Windows Start menu.
  2. Search for Apple Devices.
  3. Open the app published by Apple and select Get or Update.

How to update an iPhone with Apple Devices

  1. Open Apple Devices on the PC.
  2. Connect the iPhone using USB or USB-C, or connect over Wi-Fi if Wi-Fi syncing is set up.
  3. Select the iPhone in the app’s sidebar.
  4. Select General.
  5. Select Check for Update if that option appears.
  6. When Apple Devices reports an update is available, select Update and follow the prompts.

Apple documents this process for updating software on an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch using a Windows device. The update offered depends on the connected iPhone and Apple’s current software offering.

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Back up the iPhone before updating

Apple Devices can back up an iPhone to a Windows PC. Making a backup before an update gives you a way to recover data if something goes wrong.

  1. Connect the iPhone and select it in Apple Devices.
  2. Open General.
  3. Choose the option to back up the iPhone to this computer.
  4. Enable Encrypt local backup if you need the additional data it preserves, including Health and Activity data.
  5. Select Backup Now and keep the encryption password somewhere safe.

You cannot use an encrypted backup without its password. Apple cannot recover that password for you.

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If the iPhone does not appear

If the iPhone is not listed in Apple Devices, use Apple’s troubleshooting guidance for a device that does not appear rather than assuming a specific cause. You can also check that the iPhone is connected by a compatible cable or that Wi-Fi syncing has been set up.

If the update fails or recovery mode is needed

If the iPhone cannot update or start and recovery mode is needed, Apple says to use the latest Apple Devices app on the PC. When Apple Devices presents Update and Restore choices, try Update first if you have not already done so.

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Restore is not the normal update option. Apple says Restore reinstalls iOS and erases all data on the iPhone. Make sure you understand that consequence before choosing it, and have a usable backup if you may need to recover your data.

If a software download in recovery mode takes more than 15 minutes, the iPhone may leave the recovery screen. Let the download finish, then repeat the connection and recovery steps.

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Apple Devices connection options

Connection What to know
USB or USB-C A direct wired connection; the cable must be compatible with both the iPhone and PC.
Wi-Fi A cable-free option, provided the devices are already set up for Wi-Fi syncing.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

FAQ

Where is the iPhone update option in Apple Devices?

Select the iPhone in the sidebar and open General. Select Check for Update if shown, then choose Update when an update is available.

Do I need a cable to update an iPhone with Apple Devices?

No. Apple documents both USB or USB-C and Wi-Fi connections. Wi-Fi requires the devices to be set up for Wi-Fi syncing.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

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  • Fast Charge and Sync data: iPhone USB C cable supports 2.4A fast charging and can be used with any USB-A adapter, quickly sync data with transfer speeds up to 480 Mbps
  • Superior Utility: The iPhone 17 car charger cable is perfectly for use in the car, ensuring you can charge your device while on the move, fully providing your daily charging needs
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Does Restore mean the same thing as Update?

No. Update installs software, while Apple says Restore reinstalls iOS and erases all data on the iPhone. Try Update first when Apple Devices offers both choices.

What should I do if an encrypted backup asks for a password?

Enter the password you set when creating that backup. Keep it safe because Apple says an encrypted backup cannot be used without its password.

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