How to Fix “Unable to Check for Update” Error on iPhone

Unable to check for update on iPhone

You are trying to update your iPhone to iOS 17 but instead, you receive a pop-up message notifying you that you are unable to check for update while checking for a software update. So what does this message mean, and how can you fix this error? To get your answers read through this article.

4 Ways to Fix the “Unable to Check for Update” Error on iPhone

The “Unable to Check for Update” error on iPhone can be a result of Apple Servers being down, software bugs on your devices, or problems with your network connection.

1. Force restart iPhone

This particular method helps to reboot all software processes to default thereby getting rid of any software glitches. If you are getting some issues when updating to iOS 17, this method is the first one that you should try. The exact procedure varies depending on your iPhone model. To force restart iPhone 8 & later models:

  • Press on the Volume Up button and quickly release it.
  • Repeat the same for the Volume Down button.
  • Press and maintain a hold on the Side button for a few seconds.
  • Let go of the button when the Apple logo appears.
Force restart iPhone 12

To force restart iPhone 7 models:

  • Simultaneously press and maintain a hold on the Volume Down button and the Sleep/Wake button(also known as Side button).
  • When the Apple logo appears, quickly release your hold on the buttons.
Force restart iPhone 7

To force restart iPhone 6s model:

  • Simultaneously press and hold on the Sleep/Wake button as well as the Home button.
  • When the Apple logo appears, then release your hold on the buttons.
Force restart iPhone 6

2. Check Apple system status

If you still get the “Unable to Check for Update” error after attempting to reboot your device, then you should also check the Apple System Status page to see if there is no ongoing routine maintenance or any update. Sometimes the Apple servers may also be down hence your device won’t be able to connect to them or carry out iOS-related procedures such as software updates.

To check if Apple’s servers are working properly, visit https://www.apple.com/support/systemstatus/. If you see a green dot displayed on that page then it means there is no problem with the servers but when you see the red or yellow icon it means there is an issue with the Apple Servers. There could be a problem with the server when Apple releases iOS 17 because too many people are trying to update the software.

Apple system status

3. Check your network connection.

In order to successfully and quickly check for the update of iOS 17 or carry out any download processes,  your iPhone has to be connected to a strong and stable network connection. Therefore, when checking for updates make sure that the Airplane mode is off and that your Wi-Fi connection is switched on. You can visit your Settings App to switch the Wi-Fi option Off and then On again.

Alternatively,  use a different network connection to check for the Update if the WiFi is slow. Make sure that you have connected your device with an active and fast Wi-Fi connection to prevent the “Unable to Check for Update” error.

Internet connection

4. Remove the old software file and Update it again

When you are updating your iPhone to iOS 17, the “Unable to Check for Update” error might also be a result of software conflicts with the old software files or incomplete software files of the previous versions on your device. To get rid of these issues, remove the software file on your iPhone:

  • Go to Settings.
  • Navigate to General.
  • Then scroll down and tap your iPhone Storage.
  • Search the software file such iOS 15 in the given list of apps.
  • Click on that software file and then tap on Delete Update.
Delete iPhone update

This procedure will erase the Software file from your iPhone. To get a new update:

  • Go to Settings.
  • Navigate to General.
  • Click on Software Update.
  • Download and install the most recent version of the Update.
Update iPhone software

Another 2 Ways to Update iPhone Successfully

If the “Unable to Check for Update” error still persists when you are updating your iPhone to iOS 17 over the air, then you will have to update your iPhone with the help of your computer. To successfully update your iPhone, follow the solutions below.

1. Update iPhone via iTunes

iTunes is a very trusted tool when it comes to updating iPhones or even restoring them. Using iTunes to update iPhone will bypass the “Unable to Check for Update” error. However, before using this program, first, make sure that it is up to date in order to prevent disturbing issues or iTunes errors. To update using iTunes:

  • Open and run your iTunes program on your computer.
  • Use an original and well-functioning Apple USB cable to connect your iPhone to your computer.
  • After iTunes recognize your device, tap your iPhone button in the iTunes toolbar.
  • Then Tap on Check for Update under the Summary tab. Sometimes it will show Update button.
  • Select Download and Update.
  • Then follow the given instructions to complete your procedure.
  • Enter your Passcode to confirm this process.
  • Wait for the update process to complete successfully.
Update iPhone via iTunes

2. Update iPhone using a tool

You can also use third-party applications such as Tenorshare ReiBoot to help you bypass the “Unable to Check for Update” error on your iPhone. This program performs many different purposes such as repairing system errors, resetting iPhone without using iTunes, fixing your iPhone without any data loss, and many others. iOS 17 is also supported. To use this app:

  • Download and run Tenorshare ReiBoot on your computer.
  • Use an original Apple USB cable to connect your iPhone to your computer.
  • Ensure that the program recognizes your iPhone.
  • Then Tap on the Start option to use this recovery tool.
  • To continue with the procedure Tap on Standard Repair.  
  • Download the Firmware package.
  • Then tap on Start Standard Repair in order to start System recovery.
  • Wait for the program to fix all software errors on your iPhone.  
Tenorshare Reiboot

The “Unable to Check for Update” error can be very annoying and disturbing. However, there are simple and trusted methods to use to quickly solve this. We hope the above solutions have helped you resolve the error on your iPhone and helped you update to iOS 17.

Joel Wilson

Joel Wilson

Joel is a fan of technology. He uses both iPhone and Android phones. Being interesting in exploring new features, he likes to share his experiences on how to use the devices in a better way. Because of his enthusiasm for technology, he becomes an "expert" to fix problems with phones and computers.

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