App updates bring new features, fix bugs and, most importantly, close security holes. Yet many Android users run apps that are months out of date without realising it. This guide shows you how to update apps one by one, update everything at once, and set automatic updates so you never have to think about it again.
Key takeaways
- Updates are managed in the Google Play Store under Manage apps & device.
- You can update one app, or tap Update all.
- Set Auto-update apps to Wi-Fi only to save mobile data.
- Some updates ask for new permissions; review them before accepting.
What this guide covers
- Why app updates matter
- Update a single app
- Update all apps at once
- Turn on automatic updates
- When updates do not install
- FAQs
Why app updates matter
Developers release updates to fix crashes, improve speed and patch security problems. An outdated banking, browser or messaging app can leave your data exposed to weaknesses that have already been fixed. Updated apps also tend to use less battery and work better with the latest version of Android.
Update a single app
According to Google Play Help:
- Open the Google Play Store app.
- Tap your profile icon at the top right.
- Tap Manage apps & device.
- Under “Updates available”, tap See details.
- Tap Update next to the app you want to update.
You can also search for the app in Play Store and tap Update on its page.
Update all apps at once
Follow the first four steps above, then tap Update all. Play Store downloads the updates one after another. Keep the phone connected to Wi-Fi and, for large updates, plugged into a charger.
Turn on automatic updates
- Open the Play Store and tap your profile icon.
- Tap Settings > Network preferences > Auto-update apps.
- Choose an option.
| Option | Best for |
|---|---|
| Over Wi-Fi only | Most people; saves mobile data |
| Over any network | Unlimited mobile data plans |
| Limited mobile data | Some updates on mobile data, within a limit |
| Don’t auto-update apps | Only if you want full manual control |
Good to know: Google may install updates that fix critical security issues, whatever your auto-update setting.
When updates do not install
| Problem | Try this |
|---|---|
| “Insufficient storage” error | Free up space, then retry |
| Update stuck on “Pending” | Pause other downloads; check Wi-Fi |
| Auto-updates not running | Fix any Google account sign-in error in Settings |
| Update finished but app looks the same | Restart the phone |
| Update asks for new permissions | Review them; accept only if they make sense |
Low storage is the most common reason updates fail. Our guide on freeing up storage on Android explains how to make room safely. It is also worth checking new permissions after big updates; see how to manage app permissions.
FAQs
How often should I update apps?
Keep auto-update on so apps update in the background. Otherwise, check Manage apps & device at least once a week.
Do updates use a lot of data?
Some can be large, which is why Wi-Fi only is the safest auto-update setting.
Can I undo an app update?
For most Play Store apps you cannot roll back. Pre-installed system apps can sometimes uninstall updates from their app info page.
Sources: Google Play Help: Update apps. Menu names can differ slightly between phone brands and Android versions.