iOS/iPadOS 14 Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Article ID = 239
Article Title = iOS/iPadOS 14 Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Article Author(s) = Graham Needham (BH)
Article Created On = 6th May 2020
Article Last Updated = 27th October 2021
Article URL = https://www.macstrategy.com/article.php?239

Article Brief Description:
Frequently Asked Questions about Apple's iOS/iPadOS 14

WARNINGS!

Even though Apple has released iOS/iPadOS 15 and they now offer the new "iOS Upgrade Delay" feature, an iOS/iPadOS 14.8.1 security update was released on 25th October 2021. One of the fixes was for "IOMobileFrameBuffer" where "an application may be able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges" which was something, at the time, that Apple was aware that this issue may have been actively exploited. Apple released the same security update fix for iOS/iPadOS 15 (v15.0.2) on 11th October 2021 - a full two weeks earlier! This is completely unacceptable - a known security issue that was being actively exploted was left open for iOS/iPadOS 14 users for two weeks. If you are still running iOS/iPadOS 14 we strongly advise you, where you can, to upgrade to iOS/iPadOS 15 and don't let Apple leave you wide open to attack.
Once you have installed/upgraded to iOS/iPadOS 14 you cannot go back. You cannot downgrade to iOS 13. Be sure to read our FAQ and check compatibility of important software apps/hardware accessories before upgrading!
If your iPhone/iPad/iPod touch is critical to your life in some way, e.g. for work, it's probably best to check that the apps that are critical to you have been updated/are compatible with iOS/iPadOS 14 before you upgrade
iOS/iPadOS 14 fixes a lot of security issues. These fixes will probably not come to iOS 13 or earlier or be made available for hardware that does not support iOS/iPadOS 14. If you do not upgrade or cannot upgrade you will not be properly secure especially using the internet. If security is a concern to you, unfortunately, your only option is to upgrade your hardware and run iOS/iPadOS 14!
iOS/iPadOS 14 no longer trusts TLS certificates signed with the SHA-1 hash algorithm
iOS/iPadOS 14 authenticates USB cables so if you are using a non-Apple cable it's best to use the original Apple cable for upgrading and syncing and don't have a third-party USB hub in-between your iOS/iPadOS device and the computer!
iOS/iPadOS 13 and later has an upgraded version of the Reminders app - when using Reminders - if you choose to upgrade to the new format, Reminders will only synchronise with iOS 13 or later | macOS 10.15 or later
iOS 10 and later has a newer Notes format - if you choose to upgrade to the new format, Notes will only synchronise with iOS 9 or later | OS X 10.10.5 or later
To sync to a Mac computer or upgrade via a USB connection, iOS/iPadOS 14 requires one of the following:

macOS 10.15.7 or later
iTunes 12.9.x with macOS 10.14.6
iTunes 12.8.3 with macOS 10.13.6
iTunes 12.8.2 with OS X 10.11.6 or macOS 10.12.6
If you are still running OS X 10.10.5 or earlier you either need to upgrade to OS X 10.11.6 or later, or, if you cannot upgrade, you may still be able to use the iOS device with an older macOS / OS X, just be sure to only upgrade/update iOS/iPadOS Over-The-Air (OTA) and never via iTunes

Quick Links

iOS/iPadOS 14 Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Instructions For Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Using The Finder With macOS 10.15 Or Later
Troubleshooting Problems When Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Using The Finder With macOS 10.15 Or Later
Recommended Instructions For Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Using iTunes With macOS 10.14 Or Earlier/Windows
Troubleshooting Problems When Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Using iTunes With macOS 10.14 Or Earlier/Windows
Recommended Instructions For Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Over-The-Air
Troubleshooting Problems When Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Over-The-Air

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When will iOS/iPadOS 14 be released?

A. iOS/iPadOS 14 is now available to download and install (as of 16th September 2020).

Q. How much does iOS/iPadOS 14 cost?

A. It is free, as in, a free download via the internet at ~2.5GB to ~5GB in size depending on your model of iPhone/iPad/iPod and whether you upgrade via iTunes or over-the-air (OTA).

Q. What do I need to run/upgrade to iOS 14?

A. The following iOS devices are compatible with iOS 14 but all of them may not support all special features:

All other iPhones and iPod touches including the iPhone 5s, 6/6+ and the iPod touch 6th generation are not supported.

Q. What new features does iOS 14 have?

A. See Apple's official iOS 14 web page. MacStrategy's recommended features to note are:

Compact User Interface for Phone calls, FaceTime calls, Siri, Picture-in-Picture, and Third-party VoIP calls
Accessibility Back Tap - new feature to allow physically double/triple tapping the back of the iPhone to perform actions
FaceTime Picture-in-Picture - you can continue viewing your call while multitasking
On-device dictation
Set default email and browser apps
Wi-Fi Private Address
Sound Recognition - device will continuous listen for certain sounds and notifies you when those sounds are recognised. Some of the sounds that can be recognised include:

Fire / Siren / Smoke Alarms
Cat / Dog
Appliances
Car Horn
Door Bell / Knock
Water Running
Baby Crying
Shouting

App Library including:

App Library on the Home Screen
Automatic categorisation
Suggestions
Search
Hide Home Screen pages
Recently Added

Widgets

Widgets in different sizes
Redesigned
Widgets for everything
Widget gallery
Smart Stack
Siri Suggestions widget

New Messages features:

Pinned conversations - up to nine pinned conversations that sync across Messages in iOS, iPadOS, and macOS - requires iOS/iPadOS 14 or later | macOS 10.15 or later
Group conversations now with inline replies/threads and direct mentions
Inline replies
Enhanced Search
Enhanced photo picker
New Memoji stickers, hairstyles, headwear, face coverings and age options

New Translate app

Conversation mode
Voice translation - downloaded languages can be translated using voice even without an internet connection
On-device mode - enable a fully offline experience for Translate
Text translation
Favourites
Attention mode
Dictionary
Initially supported languages - English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, German, French, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, and Arabic

App Clips

A new way to discover apps - tapping NFC tags or scanning QR codes, also directly from Messages, Maps, and Safari

NOTE

After using the small, basic App Clip, you can download the full version of the app with just a tap
Works with Apple Pay
Works with Sign in with Apple
Secure and private by design
Launch App Clips by scanning Apple-designed App Clip Codes via Camera or from Control Center - iOS/iPadOS 14.3 or later required

New Safari features:

Inline web page Translation (initially only available in the USA and Canada with support for English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, French, German, Russian, and Brazilian Portuguese languages)
Web page privacy reports
Password monitoring

New Sleep Mode with customisable Sleep Schedule and "Wind Down" features
Maps - new Map view expanded from USA to include United Kingdom, Ireland and Canada
Maps - updated with additional new features including environmentally friendly travel (bicycles + electric vehicles) - although many of these features are restricted to countries outside of the European Union on initial launch
Siri - additional translation languages (support for over 65 language pairs)
Siri - send audio messages
Siri - new natural language voice for some EU countries: English (Ireland / UK) + French + German + Spanish (Spain)
Electronic, secure Car Keys feature (requires supported iPhone model + an Apple Watch Series 5 or later)
Files - APFS encrypted drive support
New bilingual dictionaries (French–German, Indonesian–English, Japanese–Simplified Chinese, and Polish–English)
Autocorrection support for Ireland and Norway
Keyboard - Emoji search (iPadOS 14.5 or later required for this feature on iPads)
Apple Cash Family
Family Setup - setup multiple Apple Watches for the family from one primary iPhone - requires iPhone 6s with iOS 14 or later + Apple Watch SE or Series 4/5/6 cellular models only
10-bit HDR video playback and editing in Photos - requires iOS/iPadOS 14.1 update or later
Over 100 new emoji, including animals, food, faces, household objects, musical instruments, gender-inclusive emoji, and more - requires iOS/iPadOS 14.2 update or later
Magnifier can detect people nearby, and report their distance using the LiDAR sensor - iOS/iPadOS 14.3 or later required (only on iPhone 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max)
Support for iPhone 12 Leather Sleeve with MagSafe - requires iOS/iPadOS 14.2 update or later
Optimised battery charging for AirPods Pro to slow the rate of battery aging by reducing the time your AirPods Pro spends fully charged - requires iOS/iPadOS 14.2 update or later
Headphone audio level notifications to alert you when audio level could impact your hearing - requires iOS/iPadOS 14.2 update or later
Intercom support with HomePod and HomePod mini using iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, and CarPlay - requires iOS/iPadOS 14.2 update or later
Support for Apple ProRAW photos - iOS/iPadOS 14.3 or later required (only on iPhone 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max)
Support for Fitness+ - iOS/iPadOS 14.3 or later required (app installed by default with iOS 14.3 - separate download for iPadOS 14.3) [initially, only UK and Ireland in Europe]
Support for AirPods Max - iOS/iPadOS 14.3 or later required
New privacy information section on ‌App Store‌ pages that includes a developer-reported summary of the applications's privacy practices - iOS/iPadOS 14.3 or later required
Option to record video at 25 fps - iOS 14.3 or later required
Mirror the front facing camera for still photos on ‌iPhone 6s/6s+, iPhone SE, iPhone‌ 7/7+, ‌iPhone‌ 8/8+, and ‌iPhone‌ X - iOS 14.3 or later required
Enhanced Privacy
Enhanced Accessibility
Enhanced Home app including favourite HomeKit scenes + facial recognition for HomeKit Secure Video-enabled cameras + activity Zones for video cameras and doorbells
Enhanced AirPods support and features including spatial audio and automatic device switching
Enhanced Notes
Enhanced Camera
Enhanced Search
Enhanced CarPlay
Enhanced Apple Arcade
Enhanced Augmented Reality
Enhanced Photos
Enhanced Reminders
Enhanced Voice Memos
Enhanced Weather - (severe weather event warnings only available for the USA, Europe, Japan, Canada, and Australia)

Q. What special new features are supported by which iPhone/iPod touch model?

A. See the table below:

Table 1: MacStrategy.com's iOS 14 new feature hardware compatibility chart
Feature	iPhone SE 1st Gen	iPhone 6s/6s+	iPhone 7/7+	iPhone 8/8+	iPhone X	iPhone Xʀ	iPhone Xs (Max)	iPhone 11	iPhone 11 Pro (Max)	iPhone SE 2nd Gen	iPod touch 7th Gen
Car Keys	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎	✖	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔︎	✖︎︎
AirPods Spatial Audio	✖︎︎	︎✖︎︎︎︎︎	✔︎︎	✔︎︎	✔︎︎︎	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎
Tap an NFC tag - auto	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔︎︎	✖︎︎
Tap an NFC tag - turn on	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎	✔︎︎	✔︎︎︎︎	✔︎︎	–	–	–	–	–︎	–︎︎
ARKit: Location Anchors	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✖︎︎
Volume buttons burst photos + QuickTake video	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✖︎︎
On-device dictation	✖︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎	✖	✖	✔	✔	✔	✔	✖︎︎
Exposure compensation control	✖︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎	✖	✖	✖	✔	✔	✖	✖︎︎
10-bit HDR video playback + editing in Photos†	✖︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎	✔︎︎	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✖︎︎

† - this feature requires iOS 14.1 or later.

Q. What new additional features does iPadOS 14 have?

A. See Apple's official iPadOS 14 web page. Here is MacStrategy's recommended iPadOS unique features to note:

Scribble

Handwrite in any text field
Scratch to delete
Circle to select
Touch and hold to add space
Scribble shortcut palette

Better Note-Taking with Apple Pencil

Smart Selection
Copy and paste as text
Shape recognition

Line
Curve
Square
Rectangle
Circle
Oval
Heart
Triangle
Star
Cloud
Hexagon
Thought bubble
Outlined arrow
Continuous line with 90‑degree turns
Line with arrow endpoint
Curve with arrow endpoint

Drag to select
Make space
Data detectors

Safari - Favicons in tabs by default

NOTE: iPadOS 14 does not include the following new iOS 14 features:

App Library
Back Tap (accessibility)
Camera enhancements
Car Keys
App clips via NFC (links and QR codes will still work)
Translate app
Still no Health or Weather apps on the iPad so any new features in those apps will obviously not be available on an iPad

Q. What do I need to run/upgrade to iPadOS 14?

A. The following iPads are compatible with iPadOS 14:

All other iPads including the original iPad Air and iPad minis 2 + 3 are not supported.
The following iOS devices originally came supplied with iPadOS 14.x:

Q. What special new features are supported by which iPad model?

A. See the table below:

Table 2: MacStrategy.com's iPadOS 14 new feature hardware compatibility chart
Feature	iPad 5th Gen	iPad 6th Gen	iPad 7th Gen	iPad Air 2	iPad Air 3	iPad mini 4	iPad mini 5	iPad Pro	iPad Pro 2nd Gen	iPad Pro 3rd Gen
ARKit: Location Anchors (requires cellular model)	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎	✔︎︎	✖	✔︎	✖	✔	✔︎︎
RealityKit: Video textures	✔︎︎	✔︎︎︎︎	✔︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎	✔︎︎	✖	✔	✔	✔	✔︎︎
AirPods Spatial Audio	✖︎︎	✔︎︎︎︎︎︎	✔︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎︎	✔︎︎︎	✖	✔	✖	✖	✔︎︎
On-device dictation	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎	✔︎︎︎	✖	✔	✖	✔	✔︎︎
10-bit HDR video playback + editing in Photos†	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎︎︎	✖︎︎	✖︎︎︎	✔︎	✖	✔	✖	✔	✔︎︎

† - this feature requires iOS 14.1 or later.

Q. The new universal search is annoying. Is there any way to restrict what apps' contents are searched?

A. Yes but it is a little long winded. Go to Settings app > Siri & Search > scroll down for a list of apps installed > for each app you don't want Universal Search to search, tap on the app > turn OFF "Show Content in Search".

Q. How do I pin/unpin Message conversations?

A. Go to Messages app > locate the conversation you want to pin/unpin > long tap on it > select pin/unpin from the menu.

Q. How do I configure the new (on-device) translation feature?

A. Go to Settings app > Translation > and you can set "Preferred Language" and "On-device mode" (On-device translations may not be as accurate as online translations).

Q. Where do I configure the new on-device Dictation feature?

A. On-device Dictation is automatic once Dictation is turned on (go to Settings app > General > Keyboards > turn ON "Enable Dictation". On-device Dictation only works on newer iPhone/iPad models (see charts above). At the launch of iOS 14, it is only for specific languages e.g. English - if you enable additional Dictation languages, those languages will still be processed via the internet.

Q. How do I setup the Accessibility Back Tap feature?

A. Go to Settings app > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap and configure. You can configure different actions for double and triple tap.

Q. Does the Accessibility Back Tap feature work when the device has a cover on it?

A. Yes. We have even confirmed this feature still works even with a thick, bulky Otterbox Defender case!

Q. How do I setup the Sound Recognition feature?

A. Go to Settings app > Accessibility > Sound Recognition and configure (you can also add this feature as a Control Centre item - go to Settings app > Control Centre > Customise Controls > add Sound Recognition).

Q. How do I configure third-party applications to be used instead of Apple's?

A. Apple haven't made it easy. First, install your preferred third-party application(s) > then go to Settings app > …

(for browser) > scroll down to find your browser in the third-party application list and tap on it > tap "Default Browser App" > select your browser from the list
(for email) > scroll down to find your email application in the third-party application list and tap on it > tap "Default Mail App" > select your email application from the list

Q. How do I connect a wireless game controller?

A. Apple has official instructions online.

Q. I have a compatible device so how do I get iOS/iPadOS 14? What do I need to download & install iOS/iPadOS 14?

A. You can download and upgrade to iOS/iPadOS 14 "over-the-air" directly on your device - follow our recommended instructions below.
A. Or you can download iOS/iPadOS on your computer and use iTunes to upgrade your device (iTunes 12.8.2 or later required to obtain iOS/iPadOS 14 - iTunes 12.8.2 is now available to download). Basic system requirements for iTunes 12.8 are:

An Apple Macintosh computer with an Intel processor + OS X 10.11.4 or later
or a PC with 1GHz Intel or AMD processor and 512MB of RAM + Windows 7 or later

Once you have iTunes 12.8.2 or later installed plug in your iDevice, click your device's icon in the top left of the iTunes window), then click "Check for update" on the right or better still follow our recommended instructions:
Click here for recommended instructions for upgrading to iOS/iPadOS 14 using iTunes.
Click here if you are having problems upgrading to iOS/iPadOS 14.

Q. Can I get any manuals for iOS/iPadOS 14?

A. Yes. Apple provides official manuals via their Books Store:

iOS 14 for iPhone
iPadOS 14 for iPad (Air / mini / Pro)

Q. What are the standard Apple iOS/iPadOS apps?

A. Below is a list of standard Apple provided apps included with iOS/iPadOS 14 that can now be ~~removed~~ hidden (not all apps are installed on older devices):

App Store
Books
Calculator (not included with iPadOS)
Calendar
Camera
Clock
Compass (not included with iPadOS)
Contacts†
FaceTime
Files
Find My (iPhone/iPad/iPod/Mac/Friends/AirTags)
Health (not included with iPadOS)
Home
iTunes Store
Mail
Maps
Measure
Messages
Music††
News
Notes
Phone (not included with iPadOS)
Photo Booth
Photos
Podcasts
Reminders
Safari
Settings
Shortcuts
Siri
Stocks
Tips
Translate (not included with iPadOS)
TV
Voice Memos
Wallet (not included with iPadOS)
Watch††† (not included with iPadOS)
Weather (not included with iPadOS)

NOTE: Apps can only be ~~re-downloaded~~ unhidden or "updated" via your iOS device - you cannot use iTunes. This is because apps are not actually deleted from your device (only user data and necessary hooks are removed). The signed, secure version of the app remains on your device, just hidden. "Re-downloading" an app doesn't actually involve a download and instead simply "unhides" the app on your device.
† - You can ~~remove~~ hide the Contacts app from an iPhone only. If you ~~remove~~ hide Contacts, you won't lose your contact information. You can still find all of that information in the Phone app.
†† - If you ~~remove~~ hide the Music app, it won’t be available to use with CarPlay.
††† - If you try to ~~remove~~ hide the Watch app from an iPhone that's paired with an Apple Watch, an alert asks you to unpair your Apple Watch before you can remove the app.

Q. How do I remove hide the standard Apple iOS/iPadOS apps?

A. Locate the icon for the app you want to remove. Tap and hold until it jiggles and an x appears in the top left. Tap the x. Confirm you want to remove the app.

Q. How do I get a standard Apple iOS/iPadOS app back that I have removed hidden?

A. Go to the App Store on the device where it has been ~~removed~~ hidden. Search for the app you want in the App Store. Locate it and tap the cloud icon to reinstall/unhide it (it is not actually downloaded, it is simply unhidden).

Q. What features are available in my country?

A. Based on Apple's feature vs country availability list the following features are available in the United Kingdom:

News [iOS 9.1 or later required]
Apple Music [iOS 8.4 or later required]
Beats Radio [iOS 8.4 or later required]
Apple Pay [iOS 8.1 or later required]
Maps [iOS 6 or later required]
Maps > Standard
Maps > Satellite
Maps > Directions
Maps > Turn-by-Turn Navigation
Maps > Speed Limits
Maps > Flyover

Belfast
Birmingham
Blackpool
Edinburgh
Glasgow
Kingston upon Hull
Leeds
Liverpool
London
Manchester
Middlesbrough
Newcastle upon Tyne
Nottingham
Stoke-on-Trent
Stonehenge

Maps > Public Transport Transit Routes

Birmingham
Bristol
Cardiff
Glasgow
Leeds-Bradford
Liverpool
London
Manchester
Newcastle
Sheffield

Maps > 3D Buildings in Navigation

Birmingham
London
Manchester

Maps > Traffic
Maps > Business Reviews and Photos
Maps > Transit - Great Britain
Maps > Nearby
Maps > Indoor maps including airports [iOS 11 or later required]

London LHR

Siri [iOS 6 or later required]
Siri > Sports
Siri > Twitter integration
Siri > Facebook integration
Siri > Restaurant Information
Siri > Restaurant Reviews
Siri > Movie Information
Siri > Movie Reviews
Siri > Movie Showtimes
Siri > Dictionary
Siri > Calculations and Conversions
QuickType [iOS 8.1 or later required]
QuickType Keyboard > Language Support - English UK
QuickType Keyboard > Predictive Input - English UK
QuickType Keyboard > Dictation - English UK
QuickType Keyboard > Multilingual Typing - English UK
QuickType Keyboard > Contextual Predictions - English UK
QuickType Keyboard > Emoji Predictions - English UK
Spotlight Suggestions [iOS 8.1 or later required]
Apple CarPlay [iOS 7.1 or later required]
iTunes Store > music, movies and TV)
App Store > apps and games

Features specifically not available in the United Kingdom:

Maps > Lane Guidance
Siri > Restaurant Reservations

Q. Which countries are/are not using the Apple/Google decentralised Exposure Notification API?

A. Each country needs to create an application that uses the Exposure Notification API. Here's a confirmed list of countries (we'll update this list as and when we get more information):

Using the API:

NOT using the API:

France
United Kingdom - albeit on 18th June 2020 it was now being reported that they might go with the Apple/Google API after all!

Q. What's this I've heard about an iOS/iPadOS 14.5 update?

A. iOS/iPadOS 14.5 was released on 26th April 2021 and includes:

Xbox Series X S Wireless Controller and Sony PS5 DualSenseTM Wireless Controller support
AirTag support with new Find My platform
5G improvements:

Dual SIM support enables 5G connectivity on the line that's using cellular data on ‌iPhone 12‌ models
Smart Data Mode improvements further optimise your experience on 5G networks for better battery life and data usage on ‌iPhone 12‌ models
5G international roaming enabled on supported carriers on ‌iPhone 12‌ models

Ability to unlock your iPhone X and later with Apple Watch when you attempt to use Face ID while wearing a face mask - requires an Apple Watch with watchOS 7.4 or later
Ability to stream audio and video content from Apple Fitness+ workouts to AirPlay 2-enabled TVs and devices
Set a preferred music streaming service
App Tracking Transparency in Settings app > Privacy > Tracking
Apple Card Family Support - the main ‌Apple Card‌ account holder will be able to invite family members to use the ‌Apple Card‌ account
iPadOS specific improvements:

Horizontal Loading Screen
Emoji Search
Additional Scribble languages support - German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese

Q. How do I use the new Unlock with Apple Watch feature?

A. Go to Settings app > Face ID & Passcode > turn ON "UNLOCK WITH APPLE WATCH" for the named Apple Watch you have.

Q. How do I set a preferred music streaming service?

A. When asking ‌Siri‌ to play something (from a streaming service) Siri will ask you to choose a preferred streaming service. Siri will over time will ask you again in case you need to update the setting.

Q. I don't like iOS/iPadOS 14. Can I go back/downgrade?

A. Sorry, no you can't.

Recommended Instructions For Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Using The Finder With macOS 10.15 Or Later

NOTE: Upgrading to iOS/iPadOS 14 can take many hours (1-6 hours is common). Make sure you have a permanent connection to the internet and have the time to install the upgrade!

Update your macOS to the latest version:

List of macOS 14 ~~Combo~~ Updates (latest version = 14.6.1)
List of macOS 13 ~~Combo~~ Updates (latest version = 13.6.9)
List of macOS 12 ~~Combo~~ Updates (latest version = 12.7.6)
List of macOS 11 ~~Combo~~ Updates (latest version = 11.7.10)
List of macOS 10.15 Combo Updates (latest version = 10.15.7)

Shutdown your computer and disconnect all external devices except your mouse, keyboard and monitor
Startup your computer
Shutdown your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until you get the "slide to power off" option and slide it to power your device off)
Startup your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until the Apple logo appears)
Attach your iPod/iPhone/iPad directly to your computer using an Apple USB cable (don't use any hubs or connect it to a monitor or keyboard)
Backup your iPhone/iPad/iPod:

If you use iCloud for backups, on the device go to Settings > (your account) > iCloud > iCloud Backup > tap "Back Up Now"
If you use macOS 10.15 or later go to the Finder > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the sidebar, under Locations, of any open Finder window) > click "Summary" at the top and then click the "Back Up Now" button

Go to the Finder and open a window, then select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) and then click "Check for update" on the right

NOTE

Follow the on screen instructions

NOTE

It is best that you do not use your computer while the upgrade is happening. Do not be tempted to browse the web, check email, play music or use your iPod/iPhone/iPad.

NOTE

patience

If you encounter problems check our troubleshooting list
Once the upgrade has completed go through any "setup" screens by following the on screen instructions
Once the upgrade has completed you will get any new "setup" screens:

Follow the on-screen instructions

Once you have completed the upgrade "setup", check for updated apps by going to App Store app > tap your user icon in the top right > scroll down for 'AVAILABLE UPDATES" > tap "Update All"
Sync your device (to create a new and latest backup and also to sync your updated/new apps)
The upgrade is complete
Check the following:

Bluetooth will be turned on again - if you want to turn it off go to Settings > Bluetooth
If you have an iTunes Match account it will probably be turned on by default - if you want to change that go to Settings > iTunes & App Store
If you used Photo Stream in iCloud you may need to resynchronise it - go to Settings > Photos & Camera and turn "My Photo Stream" OFF and then back ON again
Notification preferences for some apps may have changed/been updated - check apps listed under the Settings app > Notifications
iCloud synchronisation settings may have changed/been updated - check settings under the Settings app > scroll to the top and tap on your user ID > tap iCloud > check synchronisation settings

Now, if you haven't already, why not check out our FAQ

Troubleshooting Problems When Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Using The Finder With macOS 10.15 Or Later

Most errors are due to the fact that upon the release of iOS/iPadOS 14 everyone in the world is trying to upgrade at the same time. The best thing to do in this scenario is have patience and keep trying or simply wait for a day or two to let things settle down (do you really need to have iOS/iPadOS 14 right now?).
If you are having problems before or during the upgrade has completed try our troubleshooting steps.
If you are having problems after the upgrade has completed try Restoring Your iPod/iPhone/iPad.

Troubleshooting Problems Before Or During Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14

Shutdown your computer and disconnect all external devices except your mouse, keyboard and monitor
If you have not already done so, update macOS to the latest version:

List of macOS 14 ~~Combo~~ Updates (latest version = 14.6.1)
List of macOS 13 ~~Combo~~ Updates (latest version = 13.6.9)
List of macOS 12 ~~Combo~~ Updates (latest version = 12.7.6)
List of macOS 11 ~~Combo~~ Updates (latest version = 11.7.10)
List of macOS 10.15 Combo Updates (latest version = 10.15.7)

Install all the latest updates for your operating system - go to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Updates > install all listed updates. Repeat this step until there are no more updates to install.
Restart your computer
Run standard maintenance routines on your computer:

Perform a Safe Boot to clear caches and check the boot disk
Repair your boot disk's permissions
If you have utilities like Onyx, DiskWarrior or TechTool Pro you may want to run those

Restart your computer
Shutdown your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until you get the "slide to power off" option and slide it to power your device off)
Startup your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until the Apple logo appears)
Attach your iPod/iPhone/iPad directly to your computer using an Apple USB cable (don't use any hubs or connect it to a monitor or keyboard)
Make a manual backup of the old backups for your iPod/iPhone/iPad - make a copy of/backup the Macintosh HD > Users > your home directory > Library > Application Support > MobileSync > Backup folder
Delete all old backups - go to the Finder > open a window > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left > click General tab > Manage Backups > and delete all backups for the device you are trying to upgrade
Create a fresh, new backup:

If you use iCloud for backups, on the device go to Settings > (your account) > iCloud > iCloud Backup > tap "Back Up Now"
If you use macOS 10.15 or later go to the Finder > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the sidebar, under Locations, of any open Finder window) > click "Summary" at the top and then click the "Back Up Now" button

Try upgrading again - go to the Finder > open a window > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left > click "Check for update" on the right
Follow the on screen instructions
It is best that you do not use your computer while the upgrade is happening. Do not be tempted to browse the web, check email, play music or use your iPod/iPhone/iPad.

NOTE

patience

If you still encounter problems you will need to Restore your iPod/iPhone/iPad
Once you have completed the upgrade "setup", check for updated apps by going to App Store app > tap your user icon in the top right > scroll down for 'AVAILABLE UPDATES" > tap "Update All"
Backup your iPhone/iPad/iPod:

If you use iCloud for backups, on the device go to Settings > (your account) > iCloud > iCloud Backup > tap "Back Up Now"
If you use macOS 10.15 or later go to the Finder > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the sidebar, under Locations, of any open Finder window) > click "Summary" at the top and then click the "Back Up Now" button

The upgrade is complete
Check the following:

Bluetooth will be turned on again - if you want to turn it off go to Settings > Bluetooth
If you have an iTunes Match account it will probably be turned on by default - if you want to change that go to Settings > iTunes & App Store
If you used Photo Stream in iCloud you may need to resynchronise it - go to Settings > Photos & Camera and turn "My Photo Stream" OFF and then back ON again
Notification preferences for some apps may have changed/been updated - check apps listed under the Settings app > Notifications
iCloud synchronisation settings may have changed/been updated - check settings under the Settings app > scroll to the top and tap on your user ID > tap iCloud > check synchronisation settings

Now, if you haven't already, why not check out our FAQ

NOTE: Apple has some notes on resolving iOS/iPadOS update and restore errors in iTunes and information on specific iOS/iPadOS update and restore error numbers.

Recommended Instructions For Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Using iTunes With macOS 10.14 Or Earlier/Windows

NOTE: Upgrading to iOS/iPadOS 14 can take many hours (1-6 hours is common). Make sure you have a permanent connection to the internet and have the time to install the upgrade!

Update your operating system to the latest version:

Macintosh:

Windows:

Download the latest iTunes full installer (iTunes 12.8.2 or later required)
Install iTunes manually
Shutdown your computer and disconnect all external devices except your mouse, keyboard and monitor
Startup your computer
Shutdown your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until you get the "slide to power off" option and slide it to power your device off)
Startup your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until the Apple logo appears)
Attach your iPod/iPhone/iPad directly to your computer using an Apple USB cable (don't use any hubs or connect it to a monitor or keyboard)
Backup your iPhone/iPad/iPod:

If you use iCloud for backups, on the device go to Settings > (your account) > iCloud > iCloud Backup > tap "Back Up Now"
If you use iTunes 12 or later open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the top left of the iTunes window) > click "Summary" at the top of the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click the "Back Up Now" button on the right
If you use iTunes 11 open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click your device's button in the top right of the iTunes window, then click "Summary" along the top > click the "Back Up Now" button
If you use iTunes 10.7 or earlier open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left > click the "Sync" button in the bottom right

(Open iTunes and) select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list or click your device's button in the top right of the iTunes window) and then click "Check for update" on the right

NOTE

Follow the on screen instructions

NOTE

It is best that you do not use your computer while the upgrade is happening. Do not be tempted to browse the web, check email, play music or use your iPod/iPhone/iPad.

NOTE

patience

If you encounter problems check our troubleshooting list
Once the upgrade has completed go through any "setup" screens by following the on screen instructions
Once the upgrade has completed you will get any new "setup" screens:

Follow the on-screen instructions

Once you have completed the upgrade "setup", check for updated apps by going to App Store app > tap your user icon in the top right > scroll down for 'AVAILABLE UPDATES" > tap "Update All"
Sync your device (to create a new and latest backup and also to sync your updated/new apps)
The upgrade is complete
Check the following:

Bluetooth will be turned on again - if you want to turn it off go to Settings > Bluetooth
If you have an iTunes Match account it will probably be turned on by default - if you want to change that go to Settings > iTunes & App Store
If you used Photo Stream in iCloud you may need to resynchronise it - go to Settings > Photos & Camera and turn "My Photo Stream" OFF and then back ON again
Notification preferences for some apps may have changed/been updated - check apps listed under the Settings app > Notifications
iCloud synchronisation settings may have changed/been updated - check settings under the Settings app > scroll to the top and tap on your user ID > tap iCloud > check synchronisation settings

Now, if you haven't already, why not check out our FAQ

Troubleshooting Problems When Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Using iTunes With macOS 10.14 Or Earlier/Windows

Troubleshooting Problems Before Or During Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14

Shutdown your computer and disconnect all external devices except your mouse, keyboard and monitor
If you have not already done so, update your operating system to the latest version:

Macintosh:

Windows:

Install all the latest updates for your operating system:

Macintosh (macOS 10.14 or later) > go to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Updates > install all listed updates. Repeat this step until there are no more updates to install.
Macintosh (up to macOS 10.13) > go to the Apple menu > App Store… > Updates > install all listed updates. Repeat this step until there are no more updates to install.
Windows > install all high priority updates. Repeat until there are no more updates to install.

Remove iTunes from your computer:
- Macintosh > macOS / OS X / Mac OS X
- Windows > Windows 7 or later
Restart your computer
Run standard maintenance routines on your computer:

Macintosh:

Perform a Safe Boot to clear caches and check the boot disk
Repair your boot disk's permissions
If you have utilities like Onyx, DiskWarrior or TechTool Pro you may want to run those

Windows Performance and maintenance and System repair and recovery (click on the Windows pop-up menu on the right to select your version of Windows)

Download the latest iTunes full installer (iTunes 12.8.2 or later required)
Install iTunes manually
Restart your computer
Shutdown your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until you get the "slide to power off" option and slide it to power your device off)
Startup your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until the Apple logo appears)
Attach your iPod/iPhone/iPad directly to your computer using an Apple USB cable (don't use any hubs or connect it to a monitor or keyboard)
Make a manual backup of the old backups for your iPod/iPhone/iPad:

Macintosh > make a copy of/backup the Macintosh HD > Users > your home directory > Library > Application Support > MobileSync > Backup folder
Windows > make a copy of/backup the C:\Documents and Settings\Users\YOUR_USER_NAME\AppData\Raoming\Apple Computer\MobileSync\Backup

Delete all old backups - Open iTunes and go to iTunes Preferences > Devices tab and delete all backups for the device you are trying to upgrade
Create a fresh, new backup:

If you use iCloud for backups, on the device go to Settings > (your account) > iCloud > iCloud Backup > tap "Back Up Now"
If you use iTunes 12 or later open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the top left of the iTunes window) > click "Summary" at the top of the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click the "Back Up Now" button on the right
If you use iTunes 11 open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click your device's button in the top right of the iTunes window, then click "Summary" along the top > click the "Back Up Now" button
If you use iTunes 10.7 or earlier open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left > click the "Sync" button in the bottom right

Try upgrading again - (open iTunes and) select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left (or click your device's button in the top right of the iTunes window) and then click "Check for update" on the right
Follow the on screen instructions
It is best that you do not use your computer while the upgrade is happening. Do not be tempted to browse the web, check email, play music or use your iPod/iPhone/iPad.

NOTE

patience

If you still encounter problems you will need to Restore your iPod/iPhone/iPad
Once you have completed the upgrade "setup", check for updated apps by going to App Store app > tap your user icon in the top right > scroll down for 'AVAILABLE UPDATES" > tap "Update All"
Backup your iPhone/iPad/iPod:

If you use iCloud for backups, on the device go to Settings > (your account) > iCloud > iCloud Backup > tap "Back Up Now"
If you use iTunes 12 or later open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the top left of the iTunes window) > click "Summary" at the top of the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click the "Back Up Now" button on the right
If you use iTunes 11 open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click your device's button in the top right of the iTunes window, then click "Summary" along the top > click the "Back Up Now" button
If you use iTunes 10.7 or earlier open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left > click the "Sync" button in the bottom right

The upgrade is complete
Check the following:

Bluetooth will be turned on again - if you want to turn it off go to Settings > Bluetooth
If you have an iTunes Match account it will probably be turned on by default - if you want to change that go to Settings > iTunes & App Store
If you used Photo Stream in iCloud you may need to resynchronise it - go to Settings > Photos & Camera and turn "My Photo Stream" OFF and then back ON again
Notification preferences for some apps may have changed/been updated - check apps listed under the Settings app > Notifications
iCloud synchronisation settings may have changed/been updated - check settings under the Settings app > scroll to the top and tap on your user ID > tap iCloud > check synchronisation settings

Now, if you haven't already, why not check out our FAQ

NOTE: Apple has some notes on resolving iOS/iPadOS update and restore errors in iTunes and information on specific iOS/iPadOS update and restore error numbers.

Recommended Instructions For Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Over-The-Air

NOTE: Upgrading to iOS/iPadOS 14 can take many hours (1-6 hours is common). Make sure you have a permanent connection to the internet and have the time to install the upgrade!

Shutdown your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until you get the "slide to power off" option and slide it to power your device off)
Startup your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until the Apple logo appears)
Make sure you are connected to the internet using a wi-fi connection
Backup your iPhone/iPad/iPod:

If you use iCloud for backups, on the device go to Settings > (your account) > iCloud > iCloud Backup > tap "Back Up Now"
If you use macOS 10.15 or later go to the Finder > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the sidebar, under Locations, of any open Finder window) > click "Summary" at the top and then click the "Back Up Now" button
If you use iTunes 12 or later open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the top left of the iTunes window) > click "Summary" at the top of the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click the "Back Up Now" button on the right
If you use iTunes 11 open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click your device's button in the top right of the iTunes window, then click "Summary" along the top > click the "Back Up Now" button
If you use iTunes 10.7 or earlier open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left > click the "Sync" button in the bottom right

Disconnect all external devices that may be connected to your iPhone/iPad/iPod
Connect your iPhone/iPad/iPod to a power supply
Go to Settings > General > Software Update
Tap "Download and Install"
Follow the on screen instructions
It is best that you do not use your iPhone/iPad/iPod while the upgrade is happening.

NOTE

patience

If you encounter problems check our troubleshooting list
Once the upgrade has completed go through any "setup" screens by following the on screen instructions
Once the upgrade has completed you will get any new "setup" screens:

Follow the on-screen instructions

Once you have completed the upgrade "setup", check for updated apps by going to App Store app > tap your user icon in the top right > scroll down for 'AVAILABLE UPDATES" > tap "Update All"
Backup your iPhone/iPad/iPod:

If you use iCloud for backups, on the device go to Settings > (your account) > iCloud > iCloud Backup > tap "Back Up Now"
If you use macOS 10.15 or later go to the Finder > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the sidebar, under Locations, of any open Finder window) > click "Summary" at the top and then click the "Back Up Now" button
If you use iTunes 12 or later open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad (click on it's icon in the top left of the iTunes window) > click "Summary" at the top of the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click the "Back Up Now" button on the right
If you use iTunes 11 open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left (go to View menu > Show Sidebar to see this list) > click your device's button in the top right of the iTunes window, then click "Summary" along the top > click the "Back Up Now" button
If you use iTunes 10.7 or earlier open the iTunes application > select your iPod/iPhone/iPad in the list on the left > click the "Sync" button in the bottom right

The upgrade is complete
Check the following:

Bluetooth will be turned on again - if you want to turn it off go to Settings > Bluetooth
If you have an iTunes Match account it will probably be turned on by default - if you want to change that go to Settings > iTunes & App Store
If you used Photo Stream in iCloud you may need to resynchronise it - go to Settings > Photos & Camera and turn "My Photo Stream" OFF and then back ON again
Notification preferences for some apps may have changed/been updated - check apps listed under the Settings app > Notifications
iCloud synchronisation settings may have changed/been updated - check settings under the Settings app > scroll to the top and tap on your user ID > tap iCloud > check synchronisation settings

Now, if you haven't already, why not check out our FAQ

Troubleshooting Problems When Upgrading To iOS/iPadOS 14 Over-The-Air

Most errors are due to the fact that upon the release of iOS/iPadOS 14 everyone in the world is trying to upgrade at the same time. The best thing to do in this scenario is have patience and keep trying or simply wait for a day or two to let things settle down (do you really need to have iOS/iPadOS 14 right now?). If you are having problems before or during the upgrade has completed try:

Try again - it may just be that Apple's servers are overloaded
Shutdown your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until you get the "slide to power off" option and slide it to power your device off)
Startup your iPhone/iPad/iPod (hold the sleep/on/off button on the top until the Apple logo appears)
Use a different internet connection (the wi-fi connection you are on could be flakey)
Try resetting the resetting and restoring Your iPod/iPhone/iPad:

Resetting and restoring Your iPod/iPhone/iPad e.g. if you are having problems after the upgrade has completed:

If you use iTunes for syncing your iPod/iPhone/iPad try restoring Your iPod/iPhone/iPad
If you use iCloud for syncing your iPod/iPhone/iPad:

WARNING: This process will wipe your iPod/iPhone/iPad completely clean, install a fresh copy of iOS/iPadOS 14 via the internet and then restore your data from your iCloud backup. Make sure you have a backup. It can also take a long time so be prepared and patient!

Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content And Settings
Once your iPod/iPhone/iPad has reinstalled iOS/iPadOS 14 via the internet you will get the setup new device options
Select/tap "Restore from iCloud Backup"
Select your most recent backup and restore
If you still get problems try this process again but use an older backup from the list (if available)
Once your upgrade has completed successfully check the following:

Bluetooth will be turned on again - if you want to turn it off go to Settings > Bluetooth
If you have an iTunes Match account it will probably be turned on by default - if you want to change that go to Settings > iTunes & App Store
If you used Photo Stream in iCloud you may need to resynchronise it - go to Settings > Photos & Camera and turn "My Photo Stream" OFF and then back ON again
Notification preferences for some apps may have changed/been updated - check apps listed under the Settings app > Notifications
iCloud synchronisation settings may have changed/been updated - check settings under the Settings app > scroll to the top and tap on your user ID > tap iCloud > check synchronisation settings

Now, if you haven't already, why not check out our FAQ

NOTE: Apple has some notes on resolving issues with an over-the-air iOS/iPadOS update

Article Keywords: iPod iPad iPadair Air iPadmini mini iPadPro Pro iPhone Max iTunes v14iOS iOS14 iOS 14 v14iPadOS iPadOS14 iPadOS 14

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All proceeds go directly to MacStrategy / Burning Helix to help fund this web site.

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