Many people have had this issue: An app on their iPad doesn’t update or stops downloading halfway. Here are some reasons for this problem and advice on how to solve it.
Note: These solutions work on iPads running iPadOS 13 or iOS 12.
Reasons Why an iPad Won’t Update
Often, if an iPad doesn’t update its software, it’s due to an issue with verification. The Apple App Store might be struggling to confirm your identity.
Also, your iPad could be updating another app at the same time, making your app wait its turn. Sometimes, the iPad might even overlook the app.
Fixing an iPad That Doesn’t Update
These methods can solve software update problems on an iPad:
- Restart the iPad. Often, the initial step to address any issue is to reboot the device. A reboot can resolve many technical glitches, especially those related to software updates that don’t complete or get stuck.
- Restart the app that isn’t updating. Occasionally, a download may stop prematurely. You can prompt the iPad to resume downloading an app by reopening the app. Tapping an app that is queued for download prompts the iPad to attempt the download again.
- Remove the app that isn’t updating, and then install it again. If an app fails to update, erase it and reinstall it. Avoid doing this if the app stores important data you need, like notes or drawings. Many apps back up your information to iCloud, so it’s usually safe to delete and reinstall these apps. But, if you’re unsure, it’s best not to remove the app.
Note: You might have to log into the app once the download finishes.
- Download another app. If the iPad stops during the authentication process, it may not be able to connect with the App Store, causing all downloads to freeze. A simple solution is to download a new app, which prompts the iPad to authenticate again. Pick a free app and install it. After the installation, check the app or update that was frozen to see if it starts downloading again.
- Log out and then log back into your Apple ID. If downloading a new app doesn’t solve the authentication issue, try logging out and then back into your Apple ID. On your iPad, go to Settings, tap your username, and then choose Sign Out. Complete the steps to log out. To log back in, go to Settings, select Sign in to your iPad, and enter your Apple ID and password.
- Reset the Wi-Fi router. If your router is not linking correctly to the internet, your iPad might not be able to update apps. Since most routers control many devices and have a firewall, they can sometimes become confused. Turn off the router and wait for a minute before turning it back on. Once all the lights on the router are on, reconnect your iPad to the Wi-Fi and try to start the app download again.
- Reset all settings. This action on the iPad is different from a full factory reset. It won’t erase everything on your device. It only removes network settings, keyboard dictionary, Home screen layout, location and privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards. Resetting settings won’t impact your apps, documents, music, movies, passwords, or other data.
Must Read: How To Fix iTunes Don’t Recognize the iPad?
Important: Make sure to back up your iPad before resetting the device settings.
- Reset the iPad. If resetting the settings doesn’t help, you might need to restore the iPad to its original factory settings. After doing this, you can restore your iPad from the backup you made earlier.
Warning: Consider if the app you’re updating is worth such a drastic step. It might be easier to just delete the app and forget about it. If you choose to reset your iPad, make sure to back it up to iCloud first so you can restore your data and apps later.
