Your Android device is always evolving. Updates arrive throughout the year, bringing new features, performance enhancements and stronger protection. They’re designed to make your device faster, more secure and easier to use, so your experience just keeps getting better.
The ease of updating your Android device.
Android updates do more than add new features. They help keep your device running smoothly, secure, and working well with the latest apps.
Every update is a step toward making your Android device even better—more reliable, faster and more useful in your day-to-day.
How frequently do Android updates occur?
Updates don’t just happen once a year. New features are always on the way, designed to make your Android device feel smarter and easier to use.
In 2024, we rolled out powerful AI tools, like Circle to Search and Gemini, and we consistently release new ways to interact with them. These tools help you get answers faster, streamline everyday tasks, and make life feel a little more effortless.
What’s next? Android 16 brings exciting updates to accessibility, security and productivity features. Once updated, your device will have all the latest benefits and tools.
How to update your Android.
Android updates come around often, and installing them is easier than you might think. They’re designed to be quick and simple, helping your device stay secure and running smoothly without disrupting your routine.
When an update is ready, you’ll receive a notification. Simply tap it to start the download. The installation usually happens overnight or when you’re not using your device, making it effortless.
Here’s how to check your Android version.
- First, go to Settings > About phone/tablet and tap Android version.
- To check for updates, go to Settings > System, and Software Update. The steps may vary slightly depending on your device's manufacturer.
- Connect to Wi-Fi to avoid using mobile data. Pixel devices install updates in the background and require a restart, while other Android-powered devices automatically restart during installation.
- Update not working? It may be due to low storage or an incomplete download. You can fix most issues quickly. For help, head to our guide on how to update your Android device.
Updates to your favorite apps can easily be enabled by following the Google Play instructions here.
Why should you update your phone regularly?
Let’s unveil all the benefits you’ll receive from installing Android updates. Some of the main reasons you should prioritize staying up-to-date include:
New features.
Keeping your phone updated lets you unlock the latest exciting features. For example, Android 15 and 16 introduced a range of upgrades, from smoother performance to handy tools to boost productivity.
Here are a few highlights to check out, so you can make the most of what your Android device has to offer.
Android 15:
- Private Space: This new feature offers a secure place on your phone to store sensitive apps and files for more privacy.
- Enhanced camera controls: Experience Low Light Boost and in-app camera controls that now work better in low-light conditions. Third-party apps also have greater camera control, like more precise flash settings.
- Multitasking features: Android 15 can help you get more done on your devices. App Pairing allows you to quickly access your favorite split-screen pairing. You can also customize your pinned apps in your home screen taskbar.
- Theft Detection Lock: This security tool uses AI to help protect your data. It detects if someone has snatched your device and automatically locks it.
Android 16:
- Enhanced Quick Settings: This update includes larger tiles and improved toggle animations.
- Advanced Protection: Experience our strongest defense against harmful apps, online attacks, scam calls, unsafe sites, and more, enabled through a single click.
- Live updates: Track your ride or delivery straight from your notifications with compatible apps.
- Material 3 Expressive: Android 16 uses the new Material 3 Expressive design to bring a more modern look to your device’s interface, with even more updates coming later this year.
- Accessibility enhancements: Enjoy a more seamless experience with the latest accessibility features, including using your smartphone as a microphone to amplify someone’s voice directly to your LE Audio hearing aids.
Explore even more Android 16 features and security updates.
Enhanced security.
Updates often include crucial security patches that protect your device from malware, viruses and other cyber threats. Outdated software can be a target for hackers, making regular Android updates helpful for safeguarding your data. Check for security updates by going to Settings > Security & privacy, then System & updates.
Security updates often introduce protection against new threats and help keep personal data, such as photos, messages and apps, secure.
Want to get the most out of your security features? Check out our top tips on how to secure your Android phone.
Improved performance.
Android updates are designed to optimize the operating system, leading to faster performance, smoother multitasking and reduced lag. Updating your device helps it manage power better, which can mean longer battery life.
So, whether you’re gaming or streaming the latest Netflix series, the latest update helps your Android device run faster and smoothly.
Upgrade your Android device for bug fixes and stability enhancements.
Updating your phone addresses known bugs and glitches that can cause apps to crash, features to malfunction, or the operating system to freeze. So, keeping your Android device updated enhances its overall reliability and stability. What does this mean for you? Bug fixes stop crashes or random glitches that slow down your device, making it feel even more reliable.
Upgrade your Android device for enhanced app compatibility.
Updating your Android device ensures compatibility with the latest versions of apps. After all, you don’t want to run into any issues when using your favorites. Installing important updates can help prevent potential problems and ensure you can access all the features offered by your most-used apps.
What happens if I don’t update my phone?
If you don’t keep your phone or other Android-powered device updated, you might face some risks and issues, including:
- Increased security risks: Outdated devices are more vulnerable to security threats. Failing to install security patches leaves your device exposed to known vulnerabilities.
- Slower performance: Outdated software can lead to slower performance, increased lag, and reduced battery life. Plus, older versions of Android may not be optimized for newer apps and services.
- App compatibility issues: App developers often prioritize compatibility with the latest versions of Android, meaning that older devices may no longer be able to run certain apps or access all of their features.
- Reduced functionality: If you don’t upgrade your Android, your device’s functionality may be limited, making it less useful over time.
- Lack of new features: You’ll miss out on the latest features that come with newer versions of Android.
Updating to the latest version is the best way to protect your device and enjoy the best possible experience. So, check for updates regularly to ensure your Android-powered devices operate at their best.