Don't update to iOS 10 yet — it appears to be breaking people's phones

Apple released iOS 10, the latest version of its software for iPhones and iPads, on Tuesday.

You can download it now. But you might not want to.

Many people on social media, and in our office, are reporting that the update process isn't going as smoothly as it has in years past.

SEE ALSO: How to download iOS 10, Apple's huge new iPhone update

Several iPhone users have told me that the upgrade process is failing. The update is asking them to plug their phones into iTunes.

If you update your phone and you're not by a computer, that means you might not be able to use your phone until you find a desktop running iTunes.

One user told me that his phone gave him only two options when he plugged it in — "update" and "restore." The top image is an example of how his installation went wrong.

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But once your phone is plugged into a computer running iTunes, the update goes mostly smoothly — and it won't erase your data. Here's Apple's advice:

If you still see the Connect to iTunes screen after you restart, you need to reinstall iOS:

1. Connect your device to your computer using the cable that came with your device. You should see this message: "The software on [your device name] needs to be restored to factory settings or updated."

2. Click Update to reinstall iOS. Your personal data is preserved.

Loads of people on social media are reporting the same thing. We've asked Apple what's going on, and will update when we know more.

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See Also:

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• This new iPhone feature helps you get enough sleep

• Your iPhone is getting a massive update today — here are 7 hidden tricks you need to know