Most Apple iPhones Must Reboot Now—Are You Affected? - Forbes
January 14, 2026 at 10:50 AM
A new iPhone alert indicates most users should reboot now to apply a critical fix. If you’ve seen prompts to restart or noticed connectivity or performance glitches, you may be affected. Here’s how to check and what to do next.
What’s happening
- A system and/or carrier-level fix requires a reboot to fully apply. Skipping the restart can leave your iPhone less secure or unstable until you do.
Who’s likely affected
- Most recent iPhone models running current iOS versions.
- Users seeing “Update Required,” “Carrier Settings Update,” or Rapid Security Response prompts.
How to check your iPhone
- Software Update: Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, install and restart.
- Rapid Security Response: If you see a lettered build (e.g., “(a)” or similar) or a security response banner, apply it and reboot.
- Carrier Settings: Settings > General > About. If a carrier update prompt appears, accept it and restart.
- If unsure: Simply power off and power back on to ensure pending fixes are applied.
What to do now (quick checklist)
- Back up: iCloud or Finder before updating.
- Power and Wi‑Fi: Plug in and use a stable connection.
- Restart: Complete any pending updates, then reboot.
Troubleshooting tips
- Update won’t install: Free 3–5 GB of storage, try reliable Wi‑Fi, or retry after a force restart.
- Network issues after reboot: Toggle Airplane Mode on/off or Reset Network Settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset > Reset Network Settings).
- Still stuck: Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store.
Stay protected
- Turn on automatic updates: Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates.
- Keep Rapid Security Responses enabled for faster critical fixes.