iOS notification for system updates appearing on the Settings app.

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It's time for WWDC, Apple's annual developer conference. That means the company will unveil most, if not all, the newest software features coming to the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and more. And if any of the features interest you, you'll want to update your devices to stay in the loop.

Also: Every hardware product Apple announced at WWDC today: Vision Pro headset, Mac Pro, more

Here's a quick, simple, and no-nonsense breakdown of how to update your Apple devices. It is recommended to be on a stable Wi-Fi connection to update -- and note that some updates are not available over a cellular connection.

Also, make sure that all of your devices are on charge, or that you have a charger handy in case it is requested. Let's begin.

How to update all of your Apple devices

On iPhone or iPad

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1. Tap on Settings > General, then Software Update
2. Tap on the update and follow the prompts

Also: iPhone slow or buggy? Do this one simple thing every week

If you don't want to go through this manually, you can set up automatic updates:

1. Tap Settings > General > Software Update
2. Tap Automatic Updates, then toggle Download iOS Updates and Install iOS Updates 

On Apple Watch

Jason Hiner/

From the iPhone

1. Open the Apple Watch app
2. Tap the My Watch tab, then General > Software Update
3. Tap on the update and follow the prompts

From the Apple Watch

1. Open the Settings app and tap General > Software Update
2. Tap on the update and follow the prompts

On Mac

June Wan/

1. Click on the Apple icon in the corner of your screen, then choose System Preferences
2. From the System Preferences window, click Software Update
3. Depending on whether it's a minor or major update, click on Update Now or Upgrade Now

Also: All the Mac news from WWDC 2023: Mac Pro, Mac Studio, and M2 Ultra

On Apple TV

Jason Cipriani/

1. Open the Settings app on Apple TV and select System > Software Updates
2. Select Update Software and follow the prompts

FAQs

How will I know if there's an update available for my device?

There are many ways. The red dot on the Settings icon for the iPhone and iPad is the one most people are familiar with. Devices running watchOS, tvOS, and macOS will eventually notify you unless you carry out a manual update.

How long do updates take?

It depends. If it's a minor update (going from x.3 to x.4 say), then it can be over in a few minutes, but major updates (for example, going from version 16 to 17) can sometimes take an hour or more.

Why should I update?

As well as getting new features and bug fixes, you also get security updates that help to keep your device safe from hackers and other bad guys.  

Are there risks to updating a device?  

Updates are quite safe. Yes, there might be bugs that cause you irritation, but serious issues that cause a device to be bricked or unusable are extremely rare.  

See also

How to record a phone call on an iPhoneHow to clear the cache on your iPhone (and why you should)How to take a scrolling screenshot on Android and iPhoneHow to add your transit card to Apple Wallet

• How to record a phone call on an iPhone
• How to clear the cache on your iPhone (and why you should)
• How to take a scrolling screenshot on Android and iPhone
• How to add your transit card to Apple Wallet