How can I fix my iphone stuck on verifying update ios 26

Since your phone is looping back to the verification screen, the downloaded update file is likely corrupted. Deleting it forces your phone to fetch a clean copy.

Follow these steps carefully. This process will not erase your personal data like photos, messages, or apps.

How to fix iPhone stuck on verifying update with iOS 26

Step 1: On your iPhone, tap the Settings app (the grey gear icon) .

Step 2: Scroll down a bit and tap on General.

Step 3: In the General menu, tap on iPhone Storage. It might take a few seconds for the list of apps and their storage usage to load .

Step 4: Scroll down the list of apps until you find the iOS update file. It is usually named after the iOS version you tried to install, such as "iOS 18" or "iOS 18.5" . Tap on it .

Step 5: On the next screen, you will see an option that says "Delete Update" . Tap it. A pop-up will appear asking you to confirm. Tap "Delete Update" again to confirm .

Step 6: Once the update file is deleted, it's crucial to restart your iPhone to clear out any temporary glitches. To do this:

Step 7: Press and hold the Side button (on the right side) and either Volume button simultaneously until the "slide to power off" slider appears. Drag the slider, wait 30 seconds for the device to turn off, then press and hold the Side button again until you see the Apple logo .

Step 8: After your iPhone restarts, go back to Settings > General > Software Update. You should now see the update available for download again. Tap "Download and Install" to get the fresh, uncorrupted file and try the installation once more