Install iOS 14, iPadOS 14 on your iPhone and iPad now. Everything to know and do

iOS 14 is ready for your iPhone. 

Óscar Gutiérrez/CNET This story is part of Apple Event, our full coverage of the latest news from Apple headquarters.

Say hello to iOS 14 and iPadOS 14, Apple’s latest OS improvements to its software for the iPhone ($699 at Apple) and iPad ($285 at Back Market). We’re going to tell you everything you need to know about what it is, how to prepare your iPhone or iPad now, and which models are compatible. 

iPad OS is relatively to the iPad, and was created to bring Apple’s tablet more in line with a full computer experience, so you’ll see some features that don’t exist for the iPhone, like support for an external mouse or trackpad. But you will see other overlapping software skills along with some unique ones designed just for the iPhone and iPad.

This year, iOS 14 introduces new tricks to the iPhone like small apps, known as widgets, for the home screen. With iPadOS 14, Apple’s adding in features like better search capabilities. And both devices will start allowing people to choose default apps for email and web browser, as well as a new messages program that makes organizing conversations much easier. Read on for how to install the updates now that they’re live. And here’s when we think Apple will launch the iPhone 12.

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Must-do: Ready your iPhone or iPad before installing the update

It’s easy to get really excited and install a new software update and all of its fancy features the moment it’s available, but don’t get too overzealous. I suggest taking a few minutes to do some routine maintenance on your iPhone or iPad before tapping on that install button. 

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Not only will it help ensure a smooth update, but you’ll free up storage and clutter in the process, and you’ll have a fresh backup at the ready should anything go wrong when you install the update. 

We have a guide that walks you through cleaning up your device’s storage and the best method for creating a backup. 

Does your phone run iOS 13? Then it will run iOS 14. 

Angela Lang/CNET Which iPhones and iPads are supported?

Apple is keeping its portfolio of supported iPhone and iPad models the same as for iOS 13. 

Devices that will support iOS 14, iPadOS 14 Phone 11 iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation) iPhone 11 Pro iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation) iPhone 11 Pro Max iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) iPhone XS iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) iPhone XS Max iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) iPhone XR iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation) iPhone X iPad Pro 10.5-inch iPhone 8 iPad Pro 9.7-inch iPhone 8 Plus iPad (7th generation) iPhone 7 iPad (6th generation) iPhone 7 Plus iPad (5th generation) iPhone 6s iPad Mini (5th generation) iPhone 6s Plus iPad Mini 4 iPhone SE (1st generation) iPad Air (3rd generation) iPhone SE (2nd generation) iPad Air 2 iPod Touch (7th generation) How to install iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 

The good news is if you’ve ever installed a software update on your phone or tablet, you’ll feel right at home installing iOS 14. It installs just like any other software update, there aren’t any extra steps you need to take. That said, It’s a good idea to have your device plugged into a charger to ensure you don’t drain the battery, and a strong Wi-Fi connection will help speed up the process without burning through your data plan. On your iPhone or iPad, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Select General. 

3. Tap Software Update. 

Your device will connect to Apple’s servers and prompt you to download and install the update. Follow the prompts to complete the installation. When your device reboots, it will be running iOS 14 or iPadOS 14. 

Now that you have the latest software up and running, check out this list of our favorite iOS 14 features and how to use them. We also walk you through its new privacy features and a cool new camera mode to improve your selfie game.