Apple iPhone: What to do when the latest version iOS is needed for backup

Restoring from an iTunes or iCloud backup when a later version of iOS is required

If you’re restoring an iCloud or iTunes backup that requires a later version of iOS, learn what to do.

If you’re restoring an iCloud backup that requires a newer version of iOS, Setup Assistant might prompt you to update your software. If you choose to download and install the update, Setup Assistant will automatically update your software and then restore your backup.

If you’re restoring an iTunes backup that requires a newer version of iOS, you might see an error that your iTunes backup can’t be restored because the software is too old. Follow these steps to update your device and restore the backup:

Set up, update, and erase your device

1. In iTunes, or from the Apps & Data screen on your iPhone, tap Set Up as New instead of Restore from Backup. If you already tapped Restore from Backup, tap Back to return to the Set Up screen.

2. Follow the remaining steps. For now, you can skip the steps for Apple ID, Touch ID, and passcode.

3. Once the set up is complete, update your device to the latest version of iOS.

4. Let the update finish, and wait for your device to restart.

5. Erase your iOS device: Tap Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. After your device is erased, it restarts and you’ll see the Hello screen in the Setup Assistant.

Now you should be able to set up your device again, and select a backup to restore from.