You cannot update an iPhone 6 to iOS 14. The iPhone 6 is not compatible with iOS 14, and the highest supported version from Apple for this device is iOS 12.5.7.
Can you update an iPhone 6 to iOS 14?
No. Apple's documented support for the iPhone 6 tops out at iOS 12.5.7. The minimum device required to run iOS 14 is an iPhone 6s or later. If you try to update an iPhone 6 using the standard software update methods, you will only be offered iOS 12.5.7, not iOS 14.
Why your iPhone 6 can't run iOS 14
The iPhone 6 series (iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus) is capped at iOS 12.5.7 due to hardware limitations. Apple's official support policy ends software updates for older devices when the processor and RAM can no longer reliably support the newer operating system's features and security demands. iOS 14 requires a more powerful chipset and additional memory that the iPhone 6 does not have. Check device compatibility by going to Settings > General > About and comparing the model number starting with 'A' to Apple's list of supported devices.
How to get the latest update for your iPhone 6
To install the newest version of iOS available for your iPhone 6, iOS 12.5.7, follow these steps directly on the device:
- Back up your iPhone before starting the update to protect your data.
- Update all apps to their latest versions before updating iOS to maintain compatibility and ensure optimal performance.
- Familiarize yourself with new features and changes in the update before installing.
- Connect your iPhone to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- Open Settings > General > Software Update.
- If iOS 12.5.7 is listed as available, tap Download and Install.
- Follow the on-screen prompts. Your iPhone will restart once the update is complete.
Update your iPhone 6 using a computer
You can also check for and install the latest available update, iOS 12.5.7, using a computer. This method is useful if the over-the-air update fails or if your device has limited storage. This process is part of updating iOS and operating systems on older hardware.
- Connect your iPhone 6 to your computer with a USB cable.
- Open Finder (macOS Catalina and later), Apple Devices (Windows), or iTunes (older macOS or Windows).
- Click the Device button when your iPhone appears.
- Click Summary.
- Click Check for Update.
- If iOS 12.5.7 is available, click Update or Download and Update.
- Do not disconnect your iPhone until the process finishes.
Troubleshooting problems during the update
If you encounter issues while installing iOS 12.5.7, try these solutions:
Insufficient storage space
If your iPhone does not have enough free space, the update may not download or install. Delete unused apps, old photos, or large files. Clear cached data (e.g., Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data) to free up storage space. Remove old messages and attachments to free up storage space. You can also offload apps by going to Settings > General > iPhone Storage and tapping Offload Unused Apps.
Slow internet connection
A slow or unstable Wi-Fi connection can prevent the download from completing. Move closer to your router, restart the router, or try a different Wi-Fi network. Disable background app refresh (Settings > General > Background App Refresh) to improve internet speed during update. Avoid using cellular data for this update.
Failed update installation
If the update fails, restart your iPhone and try again. Make sure your device is plugged into power or has at least 50% battery. Reset network settings (Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings) to troubleshoot connectivity issues. If the problem continues, use the computer method (Finder, Apple Devices, or iTunes) to attempt the update instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest iOS version for iPhone 6?
The latest iOS version supported by Apple for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus is iOS 12.5.7. No newer versions will be released for this model.
Will my iPhone 6 still work after Apple stops supporting iOS 12?
Yes, your iPhone 6 will continue to function. However, you will no longer receive new security updates or feature improvements. Some newer apps may also stop working if they require a later version of iOS.
Can I manually install iOS 14 on my iPhone 6 using a computer?
No. Apple's software verification servers will not allow iOS 14 to be installed on an iPhone 6, even through a computer. The device is not eligible for that operating system, and any attempt to force the installation will fail.
