How to Fix Apps Not Working After iOS Update (Easy Guide)

Introduction

You update your iPhone expecting better performance… but instead, your apps stop working. 😩
They crash, freeze, or refuse to open altogether.

If you’re dealing with apps not working after an iOS update, you’re definitely not alone. This is one of the most common issues users face after installing a new iOS version.

The good news? Most of these problems are easy to fix.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to fix apps not working after iOS update using simple, step-by-step solutions that actually work—no tech expertise needed.

Table of Contents

1. What is the Problem?
2. Why Does This Problem Happen?
3. How to Fix Apps Not Working After iOS Update
4. Advanced Fixes (Optional)
5. Prevent This Problem in the Future
6. Common FAQs
7. Conclusion

What is the Problem?

After updating iOS, some or all apps may stop functioning properly.

Common Symptoms

• Apps crash immediately after opening
• Apps freeze or become unresponsive
• Apps won’t load or get stuck on the splash screen
• Features inside apps stop working
• Apps run very slowly or lag

This issue can affect popular apps like Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, or even system apps.

Why Does This Problem Happen?

Understanding the cause helps you fix it faster.

1. App Compatibility Issues

Not all apps are updated immediately to support the latest iOS version.

2. Software Bugs

New iOS updates sometimes come with glitches or bugs.

3. Corrupted App Data

During the update, app data may become unstable.

4. Outdated Apps

Old versions of apps may not work properly with new iOS.

5. Storage Problems

Low storage can prevent apps from functioning correctly.

6. Network Issues

Apps that rely on internet may fail due to connectivity problems.

How to Fix Apps Not Working After iOS Update

Here’s what works. Start from the top and go step-by-step.

1. Restart Your iPhone (Quick Fix)

Sometimes, a simple restart solves everything.

Steps:

1. Press and hold the power button
2. Slide to power off
3. Turn it back on after 10 seconds

👉 This clears temporary glitches caused by the update.

2. Update the Apps

Outdated apps are the #1 cause of issues.

Steps:

1. Open App Store
2. Tap your profile icon
3. Tap Update All

💡 Developers release updates quickly to fix compatibility problems.

3. Force Close and Reopen the App

Apps may freeze in the background.

Steps:

1. Swipe up from the bottom (or double-press Home button)
2. Swipe the app away
3. Reopen it

4. Check Internet Connection

If apps rely on the internet, this matters.

Try this:

• Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data
• Turn Airplane Mode ON/OFF
• Restart your router

5. Free Up Storage Space

Low storage can break apps.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage
2. Delete unused apps, photos, or videos

👉 Keep at least 2–3 GB free space for smooth performance.

6. Reinstall the App

If an app keeps crashing, reinstall it.

Steps:

1. Delete the app
2. Go to App Store
3. Download it again

⚠️ Warning: You may lose app data if it’s not backed up.

7. Check for iOS Updates

Sometimes Apple releases quick bug fixes.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update
2. Install any available update

8. Reset All Settings

If nothing works, reset system settings.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone
2. Tap Reset > Reset All Settings

👉 This won’t delete your data but resets Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and preferences.

Advanced Fixes (Optional)

If basic fixes don’t solve the issue, try these.

1. Reset Network Settings

Good for apps not loading.

Steps:

• Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings

2. Use iTunes or Finder to Restore iPhone

This is more technical but effective.

Steps:

1. Connect iPhone to a computer
2. Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows)
3. Choose Restore iPhone

⚠️ Backup your data first!

3. Wait for App Developer Updates

Sometimes, the problem is not on your side.

👉 If many users report the same issue, developers usually fix it quickly.

Prevent This Problem in the Future

Here’s how to avoid apps not working after iOS update next time:

1. Update Apps Before iOS Update

Always update apps first.

2. Avoid Updating on Day One

Wait a few days for bug fixes.

3. Backup Your iPhone

Use iCloud or iTunes before updating.

4. Keep Enough Storage

Maintain free space before installing updates.

5. Check App Compatibility

Make sure critical apps support the new iOS.

Common FAQs

1. Why are my apps crashing after iOS update?

Usually due to compatibility issues or outdated apps. Updating apps or reinstalling them often fixes it.

2. Will resetting my iPhone delete everything?

No, Reset All Settings does not delete data. But a full restore will.

3. How long does it take for apps to be fixed after an update?

Most developers release fixes within a few days.

4. What if only one app is not working?

Reinstall that specific app or check for updates.

5. Can iOS updates break apps permanently?

No. Issues are usually temporary and fixable.

Conclusion

Dealing with apps not working after iOS update can be frustrating—but it’s usually easy to fix.

Here’s what works:

• Restart your device
• Update apps
• Reinstall problematic apps
• Free up storage
• Reset settings if needed

Most users solve the issue within minutes using these steps.

👉 Try these fixes now and get your apps back to normal.

If this guide helped you, feel free to share it or explore more troubleshooting tips. Got questions? Drop them in the comments!