Tuesday Tip: How to Update Your Android Phone’s to the Latest Version of the Operating System

Do you ever ask yourself “should I update my device?” The answer is a solid yes. To get the most out of your phone or tablet, you should periodically update your Android phone to the latest version of the operating system. New versions of the OS offer new features, fix bugs and ensure that your device runs smoothly and efficiently. It’s easy to do. And it’s free.

However, you should consider waiting a short while before you download a new OS, because occasionally it will be accompanied by glitches that the OS maker (Apple or Android) will subsequently fix. A new OS may come with a range of issues. It may take hours to download. It might freeze your device. So think about waiting while the kinks get corrected.

Before you update any device, it’s a good idea to backup all your data in case something goes wrong.

Also, make sure your battery is charged before you start or plug your device in while you’re updating. And make sure to download updates while you’re connected to Wi-Fi, because updates are usually quite large.

Updating your Android phone to the latest version

Your device will alert you when there is an update available. It should appear at the top of your screen in the notification bar. In that case, simply pull down the bar and tap the alert to update your device.

If you don’t get a notification to update your Android phone or if you think you might have missed it, go to:

1. Settings
2. and scroll down to About (or About phone, About device or About tablet, depending on what device you’re using—Android interfaces vary)
   • If you don’t see About device (or some variation) tap System. On some Android devices, you’ll see a System updates option in the main Settings menu below About device. If you do see it, tap that instead.
3. System updates. (Or Software updates or Download updates manually.)
4. Check for update. (Again, the phrasing here may vary, depending on your device.)
5. If you’re asked to confirm, tap OK and your device will check for updates. This may take a short while.
6. If an update is available, tap Download or Yes and the update will download to your device.
7. Tap Install once the update has downloaded.

Your device will restart and begin the update process. It usually takes around 30 minutes to complete.

Apple

Looking to update an Apple device? Check out Apple’s excellent support article Update the iOS on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch