How to Update an Android

Updates for your phone or tablet can be exciting events. They usually bring new features and functionality, as well as increased performance. Your device normally informs you when an update is available, but these messages can be delayed. If you know an update is available and you need to get your hands on it ASAP, follow this guide.

1.Backup your device. While updating your Android OS is usually a painless process, there is a small chance that your device may crash. To protect against this, ensure that your device is properly backed up.

2.Open your device’s Settings. You can find the Settings app in your app drawer, or you can press your device’s menu button when you are on the Home screen and select Settings.

• Android updates are typically only available through the device itself. There are some exceptions, such as downloading the update through Samsung Kies on your computer for Samsung devices. Updating happens automatically on Kies if there is an update available when you connect your device to your computer via USB.

3.Scroll down to “About phone”. This is located at the bottom of the Settings list. It may be labeled “About phone” or “About tablet”. Tap it to open your device’s information screen.

4.Tap the “Software updates” option. This may also be labeled “Software update”.

5.Tap “Update”. This may also be labeled “Check for updates”. Your device will check to see if any updates are available. Update availability is dependent on your device’s manufacturer as well as your mobile service provider. New updates may not always be available for all devices.

• If there is an update available, the update will begin downloading to your device. For larger updates, this could take awhile, and you should have your device connected to a Wi-Fi network so that you avoid going over your data allotment.

6.Tap “Restart & install”. Once the update has finished downloading, the device will need to restart in order to install the software. This will render your device inoperable for a few minutes during the update process.^[1]

• Plug your device into its charger during the installation process to ensure that the battery doesn’t run out while the update is being installed.