The process of preventing an iPhone or iPad from automatically installing new operating system versions involves adjusting specific device settings. This action effectively pauses the installation of iOS updates, granting the user greater control over when, or if, a software upgrade occurs. For example, one might choose to postpone an update to ensure compatibility with crucial apps or to avoid potential disruptions during a busy period.
Deferring system upgrades offers the advantage of allowing time to research user feedback regarding a new iOS release, mitigating the risk of encountering unforeseen bugs or performance issues. Historically, new software versions have sometimes been associated with battery drain or app instability, prompting some users to delay installation until these issues are resolved in subsequent patches. This control also allows users to conserve bandwidth if their data plan is limited, or to wait for a more convenient time to download a large update file.