This guide will show users how to install iOS 7.1 on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. iOS 7.1 is a free update for all devices running iOS 7 or patched versions of iOS 7.
We will show users how to prepare for iOS 7.1 update and install iOS 7.1 update on supported Apple products. It’s a good idea to update to iOS 7.1 while at home to avoid iPhone becoming unusable if something goes wrong. This is very unlikely for major issues while performing the iOS 7.1 upgrade, but it’s a good idea to avoid doing this at work or while on mobile.
The iOS 7.1 release arrived Monday, March 10 at 1pm east, as an over-the-air update that users can download directly to their iPhone or iPad, and a download that users can apply in iTunes.
Prepare for the iOS 7.1 Update
The iOS 7.1 update is available to install now, but you should take a few steps to make sure things go smoothly before you hit download. We have a list of 7 things you should do before installing iOS 7.1 that you should read.
The biggest steps are to back up the iPhone or iPad and check with IT if you’re using a business-issued iPhone or iPad to make sure there are no issues with custom and business-specific software and apps.
How Long Does the iOS 7.1 Update Take?
There is no single answer to how long the iOS 7.1 update takes to install, but in our experience the update will install and complete in about 15 to 20 minutes. on one of the test iPhones at Must Be Mobile the update is still running after 40 minutes, but that seems to be an outlier. We recommend that users schedule at least 30 minutes to download and install iOS 7.1, but it can take longer, so if you don’t have any spare time, it’s best to wait until you’ve set aside the right amount of time.
How to Install iOS 7.1
There is no need to connect to the computer to upgrade to the iOS 7.1 update, but it is an option if the iPhone or iPad does not see any updates.
The most important thing to remember before starting the iOS 7.1 installation is that you will not be able to use the iPhone or iPad in any way during the actual installation process. This means you can’t surf the web, use email, make phone calls or send messages. You can perform these actions while downloading the update, but you will not be able to use the phone for 10 to 15 minutes when the phone restarts to install iOS 7.1.
Open Settings to start the iOS 7.1 update.
You should see an icon on the iPhone’s home screen that will allow you to open the main settings page.
How to install iOS 7.1
After and after. On this screen, the iPhone or iPad will search for an update. It may take a minute or two to find that there is an iOS 7.1 update available.
Tap Download and Install to start installing iOS 7.1.
Once found, tap the Download & Install button at the bottom of the screen. this will start the update. The size of the iOS 7.1 update on our devices ranged from 265MB to 1.4GB. You will need to download this update over a WiFi network and you will need at least 50% power to download and install iOS 7.1.
Wait for the iOS 7.1 download to complete before installation begins.
This can take 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your connection speed, demand for Apple’s servers, and other factors. You can continue to use the iPhone or iPad during this time, but be prepared for a pop-up informing you that iOS 7.1 is ready to install.
You will see this screen at least once before the iOS 7.1 update is finished.
When the iPhone or iPad restarts to install iOS 7.1, you will see a small Apple icon on the screen and a progress bar below it. This can be completed twice before the device is ready for use. Once the iPhone or iPad reboots to the lock screen, the iOS 7.1 update is complete and the device is ready to use.
How to Install iOS 7.1 on iTunes
If you are unable to update to iOS 7.1 via settings and over-the-air update, you need to connect to iTunes. This will install the same iOS 7.1 file so either way you will get you new iOS 7.1 features and fixes. If you have problems, plug the iPhone into a computer and open iTunes.
If necessary, let the iPhone or iPad complete a backup and sync. Once this is done, click on the iPhone icon in the top right. You should see the Check for Update option on this screen. Click this.
You can use iTunes to install iOS 7.1.
iTunes should find the iOS 7.1 update and prompt the user to download and install iOS 7.1 for iPhone or iPad. Although this process may take a little longer, it will take an average of 15 to 30 minutes. Plan to leave the iPhone or iPad connected until the update is complete.
If you encounter any iOS 7.1 update issues, leave a comment below.
