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How to Update the System Software on Android

Tap through each step to see exactly how to update your Android system software.

  1. Connect to Wi-Fi

    Updates can be large, so it's best to connect to Wi-Fi rather than use mobile data.

  2. Go to "Settings β†’ Software update"

    In the Settings app, find "Software update" (sometimes called "System update," depending on the manufacturer).

  3. Tap "Download and install"

    If a new update is available, tap the button to start downloading it.

  4. Restart to finish installing

    Once the download finishes, you'll be prompted to restart β€” installation completes after the restart.

  5. Why this is useful

    Installing system updates regularly β€” which include security patches and performance improvements β€” keeps your phone safer and running smoothly for longer.

Keep your phone safer for longer

System updates bundle security patches and performance improvements, so installing them regularly is one of the simplest ways to keep your phone safer and running smoothly over its lifetime.

Also worth knowing: back up before you update

Before installing a major update, it's good practice to back up your data first, just in case anything goes wrong during installation β€” it lets you proceed with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why hasn't an update shown up for my phone yet?

Rollout timing varies by manufacturer and carrier. If it's been a while with no update, check the manufacturer's official announcements for your model.

What happens if my battery dies during an update?

If the phone powers off mid-installation, it can cause system problems. It's safest to charge fully or keep the phone plugged in before starting an update.