Here’s Why iOS Automatic Updates Often Lag

There are two types of iPhone users: those who update manually, and those who enable automatic updates. Generally, when a new version of the operating system is available, those who update manually receive it first.

This is more or less accepted in the community. And today, we know why those who install updates manually are the first served.

In an article published recently, our colleagues from MacRumours relayed a discussion on Reddit on this subject. A user says he emailed Craig Federighi, senior vice president of software engineering at Apple, explaining that two weeks after the release of iOS 15.4, this update still hasn’t installed automatically on his device.

“What conditions must be met for this function to work?” », he would have asked. And, to his surprise, the vice-president of Apple would have answered him.

“We gradually roll out new iOS updates by first making them available to those who explicitly search for them in Settings, then 1-4 weeks later (after receiving feedback on the update) we accelerate the deployment of devices with automatic updating enabled »he would have said.

In other words, if you are in a hurry to get new software for your iPhone, do not wait for the automatic update and launch it directly from the settings. It is completely normal for Apple to roll out its updates in stages.

On the one hand, it avoids overflowing the company’s servers. And on the other hand, it also allows the firm to have an observation period. If a problem is detected during the first few weeks, it will be easier to manage if the update is still installed on only a small percentage of compatible devices.

Updates, one of Apple’s strengths

Compared to the competition, iOS updates arrive faster. In the Android ecosystem, most models do not receive new versions of the operating system until several weeks or months after Google makes it official.

In addition, Apple supports its devices longer. For example, the iPhone 6S, a device that was released in 2015, was further updated to iOS 15 in 2021.

But the good news for Android users is that the situation is improving for some brands. In 2021, the deployment of Android 12 on compatible devices was faster at Samsung. In addition, the Korean giant has pledged to support its models for longer.

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