General iOS OTA update or iTunes tethered?

[Sheldonsmith]

I noticed with the last few OTA updates (eg. iOS 6.1.2) that the download was 12MB and the update process was pretty fast.

By comparison, plugging in your iPhone/iPad to a workstation and downloading via iTunes translated to a download that was close to a gigabyte.

Other than download times and speed, is one method for updating better than another?

-Sheldon

 

[mdhwoods]

no, iTunes installs the entire version where ota just the update. software wise they are the same.

 

[sbailey4]

depends

As stated above the OTA is a delta and iTunes full. Some users have issues once in a while when doing OTA (I have never had an issue since iOS 5.0 and all updates thru 6.1.2) but in those cases a full iTunes typically resolves. Some folks will tell you iTunes is always better since it does reload the entire iOS. Really your preference and if you have a good wifi connection there is no reason to not try OTA. Can always go the other route if need to and OTA is faster.

 

[NJFP]

Personally, I always use iTunes. I had ONE issue a looooong time ago using OTA, and since then..... Call me gun shy I guess!

 

[ChristianVirtual]

Except that the iPod Touch (5gen) had some verification issue with 6.1.1 and .2 all other devices perfectly updated fine via OTA. Sine OTA is around I always used it without issues.

 

[Tyler23]

OTA, pretty much always. Never any issues with it, it's fast, and I don't have to be near my MBP to get it done.

 

[naturalsleep]

IOS 6.1.2 - battery drain problems

I upgraded my mini and iphone5 to 6.1.2 last night and where as the mini had stellar battery performance - now it clicks off like a second hand. I have restored, reset and recharged - no help - I started a chat at apple support this AM and in the middle of the chat the support case was closed.

Now if you go to Apple support the Chat option is gone - they may be getting many request for support this AM