Hey guys! Ever wondered how to keep your trusty iPhone 6s Plus feeling fresh and up-to-date? One of the best ways is by updating its operating system. In this guide, we're going to walk you through updating your iPhone 6s Plus to iOS 13. While it's an older device, iOS 13 can still bring some cool improvements and features. So, let's dive right in!

Why Update to iOS 13?

Before we get started, you might be asking yourself, "Why should I even bother updating to iOS 13 on my iPhone 6s Plus?" Well, there are several compelling reasons:

• New Features: iOS 13 introduced features like Dark Mode, a redesigned Photos app, and enhanced privacy controls. Dark Mode not only looks cool but can also save battery life, especially on OLED screens (though the iPhone 6s Plus doesn't have one). The updated Photos app makes it easier to browse and edit your pictures, and the improved privacy settings give you more control over your data. These enhancements can significantly improve your overall user experience, making your iPhone feel newer and more efficient.
• Security Updates: Security is a big deal, and updates often include crucial patches that protect your device from the latest threats. Staying updated ensures your personal information remains secure, and you're less vulnerable to malware and other security risks. Apple frequently releases security updates to address newly discovered vulnerabilities, so keeping your device current is a smart move.
• Performance Improvements: While it's an older device, iOS 13 includes performance optimizations that can make your iPhone 6s Plus run smoother. These optimizations help manage resources more efficiently, reducing lag and improving app responsiveness. Even though the iPhone 6s Plus might not see the same performance gains as newer models, you should still notice some improvements in everyday tasks.
• App Compatibility: As time goes on, some apps may require newer versions of iOS to function correctly. Updating to iOS 13 ensures that you can continue using your favorite apps without running into compatibility issues. Developers often optimize their apps for the latest operating systems, so staying updated keeps you in the loop.

So, with all these great reasons, let's get to updating!

Checking Compatibility

First things first, let's make sure your iPhone 6s Plus can actually handle iOS 13. Good news – the iPhone 6s Plus is indeed compatible with iOS 13! Apple has a good track record of supporting their devices for several years, and the iPhone 6s Plus is one of them. Ensuring compatibility is the first step, so you don't run into any unexpected issues during the update process.

Preparing for the Update

Before you start the update, there are a few things you should do to make sure everything goes smoothly. Think of it as prepping your phone for a big adventure!

Back Up Your iPhone

This is super important! Backing up your iPhone ensures that you won't lose any of your precious data if something goes wrong during the update. You can back up your iPhone using iCloud or your computer.

• iCloud Backup: Make sure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup, and then tap Back Up Now. Ensure that the iCloud Backup switch is turned on for automatic backups in the future. Using iCloud is convenient as it automatically backs up your data over Wi-Fi, ensuring your information is always safe.
• Computer Backup: Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable. Open Finder on macOS Catalina or later, or iTunes on older macOS versions or Windows. Select your iPhone when it appears, and then click Back Up Now. For added security, you can encrypt your backup by selecting the Encrypt local backup option. Backing up to your computer is faster and doesn't rely on an internet connection, making it a reliable alternative.

Free Up Storage Space

Updates need space, so make sure you have enough room on your iPhone. A lack of storage space can cause the update to fail, leaving your device in a partially updated state. To check your storage, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. If you're running low, you can delete apps you don't use, remove old photos and videos, or clear out unnecessary files. Aim to have at least 6GB to 8GB of free space to ensure a smooth update process.

Ensure a Stable Wi-Fi Connection

A stable Wi-Fi connection is crucial for downloading the update. A weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection can interrupt the download, potentially causing errors or prolonging the update process. Make sure you're connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network before starting the update. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks, as they can be less secure and more prone to interruptions. A strong and stable Wi-Fi connection will make the process faster and more reliable.

Charge Your iPhone

Make sure your iPhone is charged to at least 50% before starting the update. An update can take a while, and you don't want your iPhone to die in the middle of it. If your battery is low, plug it in and let it charge before proceeding. A fully charged battery ensures that the update process completes without any interruptions due to low power.

Updating to iOS 13

Alright, now for the main event! Here’s how to actually update your iPhone 6s Plus to iOS 13.

1. Go to Settings: Tap the Settings app on your iPhone’s home screen. This is where all the magic happens.
2. Navigate to General: Scroll down and tap on General. This section contains various settings related to your iPhone's software and hardware.
3. Select Software Update: Tap on Software Update. Your iPhone will now check for available updates. This process may take a few moments, depending on your internet connection and Apple's servers.
4. Download and Install: If iOS 13 is available, you'll see it listed. Tap Download and Install. You might need to enter your passcode to proceed. Make sure you have enough storage space before starting the download. The download time will vary depending on your internet speed.
5. Agree to the Terms and Conditions: After the download is complete, you'll be prompted to agree to Apple's terms and conditions. Read through them (or just scroll to the bottom and tap Agree). Accepting the terms is necessary to proceed with the installation.
6. Install the Update: Tap Install Now to begin the update process. Your iPhone will restart, and you'll see a progress bar as iOS 13 is installed. This process can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, so be patient. Do not interrupt the update process, as it can cause serious issues.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are a few common issues you might encounter and how to fix them.

• Update Failed: If the update fails, make sure you have enough storage space and a stable Wi-Fi connection. Restart your iPhone and try again. A simple restart can often resolve minor glitches that may be preventing the update from completing. If the issue persists, try updating via your computer using iTunes or Finder.
• iPhone Won’t Turn On: If your iPhone won’t turn on after the update, try force restarting it. Press and quickly release the volume up button, press and quickly release the volume down button, and then press and hold the side button until you see the Apple logo. Force restarting can help resolve issues where the device is unresponsive after an update. If this doesn't work, you may need to restore your iPhone using iTunes or Finder.
• Apps Crashing: Some apps may crash after the update. Try updating the apps from the App Store. If that doesn’t work, try deleting and reinstalling the apps. App updates often include compatibility fixes for the latest iOS versions. Reinstalling the app can resolve issues caused by corrupted files.

Post-Update Tips

After updating, here are a few things you might want to do.

• Explore New Features: Take some time to explore the new features in iOS 13. Check out Dark Mode, the redesigned Photos app, and the updated privacy settings. Exploring the new features will help you make the most of your updated device.
• Check App Permissions: Review your app permissions to make sure apps only have access to the information they need. Go to Settings > Privacy and review each category. Regularly reviewing app permissions helps protect your privacy and ensures that your data is secure.
• Optimize Battery Life: If you notice your battery life is draining faster than usual, try enabling Low Power Mode. Go to Settings > Battery and turn on Low Power Mode. You can also adjust screen brightness and disable background app refresh to conserve battery life. Optimizing battery life ensures that your iPhone lasts longer between charges.

Conclusion

And there you have it! Updating your iPhone 6s Plus to iOS 13 is a straightforward process that can bring new features, security updates, and performance improvements. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure a smooth and successful update. So go ahead, give your iPhone 6s Plus a little refresh, and enjoy the new features iOS 13 has to offer! Remember to always back up your data and ensure a stable internet connection for the best results. Happy updating!