How to Update Your Android Phone (and Why It Matters)

By Ammar Aslam · Updated September 29, 2026 · 3 min read

Updates bring new features, but more importantly they fix security holes that hackers could use. Keeping your Android phone updated is one of the easiest ways to stay safe.

Types of Android updates

Update	What it includes
Android version upgrade	Major new version with new features
Security patch	Monthly or quarterly security fixes
Google Play system update	Core components updated through Google
App updates	Updates for individual apps via Play Store

Check for a system update

Go to Settings → System → Software update (Samsung: Software update → Download and install).
Tap Check for update.
If available, tap Download and install.

Google Play system update

Go to Settings → Security & privacy → System & updates → Google Play system update. Install any pending update and restart.

Check your security patch date

In Settings → About phone → Android version, look for Android security update. If the date is more than a year old, your phone may no longer receive updates.

Before installing

Charge to at least 50% or plug in.
Connect to Wi-Fi, since updates can be large.
Free up a few GB of storage.
Back up important data for major version upgrades.

If an update fails

Restart and try again.
Free up more storage.
Switch to a different Wi-Fi network.
Some brands offer computer software (like Samsung Smart Switch) to install updates.

After updating

Phones can feel slow or warm for a day while apps optimise. This is normal. If battery drain continues for several days, see our battery guide.

What if my phone no longer gets updates?

Phones that no longer receive security updates become riskier over time, especially for banking. Keep apps updated, avoid unknown apps, and consider upgrading when practical. When buying a new phone, check how many years of updates the manufacturer promises.

Beware fake updates: real Android updates come only through Settings. Pop-ups on websites saying "Update your Android now" are scams.

How long will my phone get updates?

Update support varies widely by manufacturer and model. Recent flagship and many mid-range phones from major brands receive several years of Android upgrades and security patches, with some promising up to seven years. Budget models often receive fewer. Check the manufacturer's official support policy for your model.

When your phone stops receiving updates, it doesn't stop working, but new security holes won't be fixed. Over time, some apps, including banking apps, may stop supporting older Android versions.

Staying safer on an older phone

Keep all apps updated through the Play Store; app updates still arrive.
Make sure Google Play system updates are current.
Only install apps from the Play Store and review permissions carefully.
Use a modern browser like Chrome or Firefox, which keep updating longer than the system.
Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks.
Move banking to a newer device when practical.

Beta and early updates

Some manufacturers offer beta programmes for upcoming Android versions. Betas can have bugs that affect battery, apps or stability, so avoid them on your main phone unless you're comfortable troubleshooting. Stick with stable releases for everyday reliability.

Updates and your warranty

Official updates never void your warranty. Installing unofficial software or custom ROMs can, and may break features like banking apps or contactless payments.

Frequently asked questions

Can I skip an update?

You can delay it, but security updates should be installed soon after release.

Will updating delete my data?

Normal system updates don't delete data, but a backup is always wise.

Ammar Aslam
Ammar writes clear, practical tech guides that help everyday users fix problems, stay safe online and get more from their devices.