Apple released iOS 16.7.14 and iPadOS 16.7.14 on February 2, 2026, a critical software update addressing a mobile network problem that prevented emergency calls on older iPhones in Australia. The update is available for iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X.
What Happened
The issue originated from iOS 16.7.13, released in late January 2026. After Australian carriers like Telstra upgraded their networks to improve emergency calling support, the update created a conflict that blocked some iPhone 8 and iPhone X models from connecting to emergency services. Apple pulled iOS 16.7.13 from distribution shortly after discovering the problem, but some users had already installed it.
Telstra issued a temporary carrier settings update on January 30, 2026, to restore emergency calling while Apple prepared the permanent fix. iOS 16.7.14 is Apple’s official solution, confirmed on their security update page.
How to Install the Update
Prerequisites
Before starting the update, ensure your device meets these requirements:
- Connected to Wi-Fi (cellular data cannot be used for iOS updates)
- Battery charged to at least 50% OR plugged into a power source
- At least 2-3 GB of free storage space available
Step 1: Open Settings
Locate and tap the Settings app on your iPhone’s home screen. The icon appears as a gray gear. If you cannot find it, swipe down from the center of your home screen and type “Settings” in the search bar.
Step 2: Navigate to Software Update
In the Settings menu, scroll down and tap General. This section has a gear icon on a gray background. Within General settings, tap Software Update (the second option from the top).
Your iPhone will automatically check Apple’s servers for available updates. This may take 10-30 seconds depending on your internet connection.
Step 3: Download and Install iOS 16.7.14
When iOS 16.7.14 appears, tap Download and Install. You may be prompted to:
- Enter your device passcode
- Agree to Apple’s Terms and Conditions
- Temporarily remove apps if additional storage space is needed (these will be automatically reinstalled after the update)
The download typically takes 5-15 minutes depending on your Wi-Fi speed. Once downloaded, tap Install Now to begin installation. Your iPhone will restart during this process, which takes approximately 10-20 minutes. Do not interrupt the update once installation begins.
Alternative: Update Using a Computer
If the wireless update fails, you can update via computer:
- Mac (macOS Catalina 10.15 or later): Connect your iPhone with a USB cable, open Finder, select your iPhone from the sidebar, click General, then click Check for Update
- Mac (macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier) or Windows PC: Connect your iPhone, open iTunes, click the iPhone icon near the top-left, click Summary, then click Check for Update
Affected Devices
According to Apple’s official security release page, iOS 16.7.14 is available for:
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone X
- iPad 5th generation
- iPad Pro 9.7-inch
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch 1st generation
These devices can no longer run newer iOS versions (iOS 17 and later), making this security update critical for maintaining basic functionality.
Verifying the Update
After installation, verify you’re running iOS 16.7.14 by going to Settings > General > About. The Software Version field should display “16.7.14”.
If you experienced emergency calling issues in Australia, test that emergency services access has been restored by checking your signal strength in areas where you previously had connectivity problems. Do not test by actually calling emergency services.
This update restores the most fundamental function of a mobile phone: the ability to call for help in an emergency. While the bug primarily affected users in Australia, installing iOS 16.7.14 ensures your device maintains compatibility with evolving carrier networks and provides peace of mind for owners of these older but still widely used iPhones and iPads.
The update includes no published CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) security entries, meaning it focuses specifically on the emergency calling bug fix rather than addressing new security vulnerabilities.