The much-anticipated Genshin Impact Luna IV update (Version 6.3) drops on January 14, 2026, bringing the exciting Lantern Rite festival and new characters. Smart travelers are already preloading to jump straight into Teyvat when servers go live. Here’s your complete guide to getting ahead of the update.
Table of Contents
Genshin Impact Preload Download Sizes Overview
| Platform | Download Size | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PC | ~8 GB | May increase with voice packs |
| Android | ~3 GB | Compressed mobile version |
| iOS | ~3 GB | Optimized for Apple devices |
Note: Actual sizes may vary based on your installed language packs and game resources
When Can You Preload Luna IV?
Preload is currently available and will remain open until the update releases on January 14, 2026 at 11 am (UTC+8). The maintenance window begins at 6 am (UTC+8) and lasts approximately 5 hours, so downloading now means zero wait time when servers reopen.
How to Preload on Each Platform
PC Users: Launch the HoYo Play client and click the “Pre-Install” button next to your Start Game option. The launcher handles everything automatically.
Android Players: Open the game, check for the pre-installation prompt, or head to Google Play Store to manually trigger the update download.
iOS Travelers: Access the App Store, locate Genshin Impact, and tap the update button when the preload becomes available.
What’s Coming in Luna IV?
The update introduces three powerful characters: 5-star Hydro catalyst user Columbina (former Fatui Harbinger), 5-star Geo sword wielder Zibai with time-manipulation abilities, and 4-star Geo polearm support Illuga. Players also get the 2026 Lantern Rite event featuring Yaoyao’s exclusive outfit, new artifact domains, and story quests continuing the Archon storyline.
According to HoYoverse’s official announcement, Phase 1 runs January 14-February 3 with Columbina and Ineffa banners, while Phase 2 (February 3-24) features Zibai alongside Neuvillette’s rerun.
Pro Tips for Smooth Installation
Clear 15-20 GB of storage before preloading since the game needs decompression space. Ensure stable Wi-Fi connection to prevent download corruption. Once preloaded, the files remain dormant until maintenance completes—you’ll simply patch in when servers return.
Looking to optimize your gaming setup? Check out our complete Genshin Impact optimization guide for performance tweaks and best practices.
Genshin Impact Luna IV Release: Everything You Need to Know
FAQs
Will preloading affect my current game data?
No, preload files sit separately until maintenance ends, then automatically integrate without touching your existing save data or progress.
Can I play during the 5-hour maintenance window?
Unfortunately not—all servers go offline during maintenance, but you’ll receive 300 Primogems as compensation for Adventure Rank 5+ accounts.
