The process of updating an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch operating system (iOS) using Apple’s iTunes software, installed on a computer, is a method employed to install the latest version of the mobile operating system. This approach involves connecting the iOS device to a computer via USB and initiating the update through the iTunes interface. An example is connecting an iPhone 8 to a Macbook running iTunes, then selecting the “Update” option within iTunes after the device is recognized.
This particular update procedure offers several advantages, including a stable connection that can reduce the risk of interrupted downloads compared to over-the-air updates. It also provides a means to restore a device to a factory-fresh state by installing a clean version of iOS, useful when troubleshooting software issues or preparing a device for sale. Historically, this was the primary method of iOS updates before the widespread availability of reliable wireless internet connections. While now less commonly used, it remains a valuable tool in specific circumstances, such as when a device lacks sufficient storage for an over-the-air update or encounters issues during wireless installation.