If you’re having issues with installing iOS updates on your device because of insufficient space, there are solutions to this. iOS updates is one of the reasons a 16GB iPhone isn’t good enough, and luckily Apple have not made any 16GB iPhones since the iPhone SE in early 2015. All iPhones from the iPhone 7 have at least 32GB storage now, which means it is easier to install updates. But sometimes you may still get an error when attempting to install updates saying you do not have enough storage, but luckily there are multiple solutions.

Solution #1: Free up space on your device

This may sound obvious but freeing up space is the first thing you should try when you get this error. Look through your apps. Are there any apps you haven’t used for ages and you probably won’t be for the foreseeable future? Get rid of them, as they may be stopping you from installing the updates. Look in Photos. Do you have any blurry shots or photos you took several times to get a perfect shot? Delete any photos and videos clogging up storage, or alternatively back them up to iCloud.

Solution #2: Use iTunes

You can also use iTunes to install an iOS update when your device doesn’t have enough storage. You will still need some storage to install it, as the updated OS will take up some space, but since the update file will be downloaded onto your PC and not the iOS device, you won’t need to free up as much.

Solution #3: Factory reset your device

If you’re installing a major OS upgrade like iOS 13 it’s possible your device just won’t let you install it. These updates are large and it’s not worth deleting all your photos and apps just to install it. The advice for a lot of Android phones when updating to a new OS generation, particulary Samsung phones, is to factory reset the device to give it a fresh start, and then restore your files afterwards. This advice can also be used with iOS if you’re having troubles installing the update. Remember to back up your data beforehand though!

Conclusion

If you’re getting the ‘Insufficient space for download” error on your iOS device, following this advice can help. If you’re on a 16GB iPhone, now may be the time to look at upgrading because 16GB iPhones are not as capable as they once were. I hope I’ve fixed your problem with installing iOS updates and you can now experience the latest benefits of your new iOS version.

Thanks for reading, and goodbye!