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Paul-In-Fort-Lupton
User level: Level 1 (15 points)

iPhone SE (2nd gen) cannot download updates over cellular data despite Low Data Mode being off

There was a software update issued to correct a bug that wouldn't allow certain iPhone models to download system updates over a cellular data connection. That bug fix did NOT fix the problem, iPhone SE (second gen) getting message, "Unable to Download... When Low Data Mode is turned on, ...". Thing is that Low Data Mode is turned OFF and there is no other network to switch to. Cellular data is it and I have 4 bars.

Posted on Sep 28, 2026 6:10 PM

4 replies

Kurtosis12
User level: Level 10 (82,568 points)

Sep 28, 2026 6:14 PM in response to Paul-In-Fort-Lupton

And you have iOS 26.6.2 installed?

If so, try a forced restart, then try it again.


Try a forced restart.


• Press and quickly release the volume up button

• Press and quickly release the volume down button

• Press and hold the side button.

• When the Apple logo appears, release the button.


Force restart iPhone - Apple Support (IN)


MrHoffman
User level: Level 10 (169,253 points)

Sep 28, 2026 6:18 PM in response to Paul-In-Fort-Lupton

Over-the-air updates require a 5G cellular connection, and iPhone SE 2nd doesn’t have 5G.


If you need to use cellular data and not Wi-Fi, you’ll need a mobile hotspot from your carrier.


Otherwise, use Wi-Fi, or use a Mac or Windows PC to update the iPhone if necessary.


Use 5G with your iPhone - Apple Support


Mac Jim ID
User level: Level 10 (105,996 points)

Sep 28, 2026 6:22 PM in response to Paul-In-Fort-Lupton

[Edited}

Good job Mr Hoffman!


I missed the fact that the iPhone SE (2nd gen) does not have 5g cellular.

Kurtosis12
User level: Level 10 (82,568 points)

Sep 28, 2026 6:59 PM in response to MrHoffman

Good catch, I missed that as well.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256366871