The release of iOS 26 has brought tons of new features and improvements to Apple users with iPhones and iPads. But there are a few users who are having some issues when attempting the update process to upgrade to iOS 26. The most common issue is that devices freeze with the message “Update Requested” on the screen, preventing the operating system from installing properly. This stops the entire update process completely, but there are a few different things you can do to fix this problem. So follow along as we guide ou through them.

Takeaways:

  1. Some Apple users are experiencing the “Update Requested” screen during the iOS 26 installation.
  2. Multiple troubleshooting methods can help fix the issue and allow the update to proceed.
  3. iOS 26 was announced on June 9 and officially rolled out worldwide on September 15.

How to Fix the iOS 26 Update Stuck on iPhone and iPad

At the moment, there are two main issues when trying to update to iOS 26. The first is that the update gets stuck trying to download. You can find a solution here. The second issue is the one this guide will be dealing with, the update process getting stuck. Start from the top of this list, then work your way down for the best chance of success.

Perform a Simple Restart

Most of the time, a quick restart is enough to fix the problem. Even if your device has plenty of storage space, the update may still freeze with the Apple logo or the “Update Requested” message. The good news is that restarting will not delete apps or storage. Instead, it gives the system a clean start so it can properly detect and install iOS 26. After the restart, check for the iOS 26 OTA update again and retry the installation.

Force Restart the Device

If the simple restart option does not work, you'll have to do a forced restart. This will help clear system glitches or corrupted files interfering with the installation. To force restart your iPhone or iPad do the following.

  • Press and hold the Volume Up, Volume Down, and Power (Siri) buttons simultaneously.
  • Continue holding, even when the “slide to power off” option appears. Ignore that prompt.
  • Keep pressing until the Apple logo reappears on the screen.

Once the device reboots, attempt the update again and check if the download and installation proceed normally.

Update via iTunes or Finder

If the problem still hasn't been fixed, the problem may not be with your device but with Apple’s servers, which could be overloaded during peak update periods. If you think this is happening, you can update manually.

  • Download the correct IPSW file for your device.
  • On Windows, use iTunes. On Mac, use Finder.
  • Connect your device, select the update option, and install the downloaded IPSW file.

This method bypasses OTA updates and often resolves issues caused by server delays or errors.