How to Update Your Android Phone's Software

Android software updates improve security, fix bugs, and add new features. Here's how to check for and install updates on any Android phone.

In this guide (5 steps):

1.Find software update settings on Samsung Galaxy
2.Find software update on Google Pixel phones
3.Find software update on other Android phones
4.Prepare before updating
5.What if no updates are available?

Find software update settings on Samsung Galaxy

~15s

Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install. Samsung shows you your current software version and whether an update is available. If one is available, tap "Download." Connect to Wi-Fi first — updates can be several hundred megabytes.

Find software update on Google Pixel phones

~15s

Go to Settings > System > System update. Pixel phones get the fastest Android updates since Google makes both the software and the phone. Monthly security patches arrive promptly.

Find software update on other Android phones

~25s

The location varies by manufacturer: - Motorola: Settings > About phone > Check for updates - LG: Settings > General > About phone > Update Center - OnePlus: Settings > System > System Updates - Most others: Settings > About phone > Software update (or System update)

Quick Tip

Quick Tip: If you can't find it, open Settings and use the search bar — type "update" and it will find the setting regardless of where it's buried.

Prepare before updating

~15s

Before starting an update: connect to Wi-Fi (avoid using cellular data for large updates), make sure your battery is at least 50% charged (or plug in your charger), and save any open work in apps. The phone will restart as part of the update process.

What if no updates are available?

~22s

If your phone says it's up to date but the software version seems old, your phone may no longer be receiving updates. Most Android phones get security updates for 3–5 years from their release date. After that, the manufacturer stops providing patches. If your phone is more than 4–5 years old and no longer receiving security updates, this is a good reason to consider upgrading.

You Did It!

You've completed: How to Update Your Android Phone's Software

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Android phones receive software updates from two sources: Google (monthly security patches for the Android operating system) and your phone manufacturer (Samsung, Motorola, Google Pixel, etc. release their own updates with additional features and fixes). Carrier updates may also be part of the update stream.

Updates are important — security patches plug the holes that hackers and malware use to attack phones. Staying current is one of the simplest things you can do to keep your phone secure. Most updates install in 10–20 minutes and your phone restarts once during the process.

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