iOS 16 is finally here after months of beta testing. The latest mobile software update includes a bunch of new features, like the ability to unsend and edit text messages, a customizable lock screen, a cropping feature for photos, and the return of the battery percentage to the status bar. This guide will show you how to download and install iOS 16 on your iPhone.
Is My iPhone Compatible With iOS 16?
iOS 16 supports many iPhone models, from the iPhone 8 (released in 2017) to the latest iPhone 14 lineup, which will be released this Friday in select markets. Here is the full list of compatible devices.
- iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
- iPhone X
- iPhone SE (2020)
- iPhone XS and XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14
What To Do First
Back up your iPhone. We recommend you back up your iPhone before proceeding with the update. A backup should come in handy if you want to return to iOS 15. The good news is that your iPhone should back up automatically every time it’s connected to power with Wi-Fi turned on.
Make sure your phone has enough juice. You won’t be able to perform an update if your phone is under 50% battery charged.
Connect to Wi-Fi. You won’t be able to update to iOS 16 if you are now on a cellular network. Make sure you connect your device to a Wi-Fi network.
Clear up some space. iOS 16 file size is around 5GB, so if you are running low on storage, clear up some space before performing the update.
How to Download and Install iOS 16

- Open Settings on your iPhone and select General.
- Select Software Update and hit Download and Install.
- The update should start downloading. Once the download is complete, install it.Â
Can I Install iOS 16 on Unsupported Devices?
The answer is No. However, Apple also released iOS 15.7 update for those who are not eligible for the update. If you see the download and install iOS 15.7, install it on your device.