Keeping Android itself up to date is one of the simplest ways to keep your phone safe and running smoothly. System updates and security patches fix weaknesses, improve stability and sometimes add new features. This guide explains the different kinds of Android updates, how to check for them and how to install them safely.
Key takeaways
- Check for updates in Settings > System > Software update (the name varies by brand).
- Android phones receive system updates, security patches and Google Play system updates.
- Back up, charge to 50%+ and use Wi-Fi before a big update.
- Restarting after an update finishes the installation.
What this guide covers
- Three kinds of Android updates
- How to check for updates
- Before you install
- How long phones get updates
- If an update fails
- FAQs
Three kinds of Android updates
| Update type | What it does | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Android system update | New Android version or major improvements | Settings > System > Software update |
| Security update | Monthly or periodic security patches | Settings > Security & privacy > Updates |
| Google Play system update | Updates core Android parts through Google Play | Settings > Security & privacy > Updates |
Each phone shows its current Android version and security patch date in Settings > About phone. A patch date more than a few months old is a sign to check for updates.
How to check for updates
- Open Settings.
- Tap System, then Software update or System update. On some phones it is directly in Settings as Software update.
- Tap Check for update.
- If an update is available, tap Download and install and follow the steps.
Android Help recommends this same path when troubleshooting problems such as fast battery drain, because many issues are fixed in newer versions.
Before you install
- Back up your phone so nothing is lost if something goes wrong. See how to back up your Android phone.
- Charge to at least 50%, or keep the phone plugged in.
- Connect to Wi-Fi; system updates can be large.
- Free up storage if the phone says there is not enough space.
- Do not turn off the phone while the update is installing.
Only install updates from your phone’s Settings. Official updates come from your phone maker or Google. Do not install “system update” files shared through links or messages.
How long phones get updates
Each manufacturer decides how many years of Android and security updates a phone receives, and recent flagship phones generally get support for longer than older or budget models. Check your phone maker’s official website for the update policy of your model. When a phone stops receiving security updates, it is safer to avoid using it for banking and sensitive tasks.
If an update fails
| Problem | What to try |
|---|---|
| Not enough storage | Delete large files or unused apps, then retry |
| Download stuck | Switch Wi-Fi networks or restart the phone |
| Phone is slow after updating | Wait a day; Android optimises apps after big updates |
| Battery drains after updating | Usually settles in a few days; see our battery guide |
| Update keeps failing | Contact the manufacturer’s official support |
For battery problems after an update, read Android battery draining fast? 7 fixes.
FAQs
Will updating delete my data?
Normal system updates keep your apps and files. A backup is still a sensible precaution.
Can I skip an update?
You can postpone it, but security updates protect your phone, so install them as soon as convenient.
Why does my friend have the update and I do not?
Updates roll out gradually and differ by model, region and mobile network.
Sources: Android Help: Check and update your Android version · Android Help: Battery drains quickly. Menu names can differ slightly between phone brands and Android versions.