Install iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 starting tomorrow. We show you how to download it

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

Apple will release iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 tomorrow, Wednesday, Sept. 16, bringing plenty of new features and performance improvements to its iPhone and iPad line (here’s how to prepare your iPhone or iPad today). The announcement was made at Apple’s Sept. 15 “Time Flies” event, where the company also announced two new Apple Watches, and a revamped iPad Air. 

Apple’s been continuously updating its iOS software since releasing the first iPhone in 2007, and the first iPad in 2010. In most recent years, the company’s added features such as a dark mode, improved multitasking on the iPad putting apps side by side and new privacy features such as Sign In with Apple, which is designed to keep apps from collecting information from you without your knowledge.

In 2019, Apple split iOS and iPadOS, effectively promising it would focus resources on new features for the iPad that may not arrive on the iPhone. The intent was to build an iPad experience that could be more competitive with a full computer experience. One new feature the company’s released for the iPad is support for using an external mouse or trackpad, making it easier for people to use the device along with a keyboard.

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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.

Below you’ll find instructions for installing the update, once it’s live on Sept. 16. 

Read more: iPhone 12 rumors: Everything we think we know

Get your iPhone or iPad ready 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. 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. 

Which iPhones and iPads are supported?

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