Your Android device is always evolving. Updates to Android arrive throughout the year, bringing new features, performance enhancements and stronger protection. They’re designed to make your device work faster, more secure and easier to use, so your experience just keeps getting better.
The ease of updating your Android device.
Android updates not only add new features, they keep your device running smoothly, securely, and working well with the latest apps.
Every update is a step towards making your Android device better—more reliable, faster and more useful in your day-to-day life
How frequently do Android updates occur?
Updates to Android don’t just happen once a year. New features are always on the way, designed to make your Android device 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 make it easier to 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 device.
Android updates come frequently, and installing them is simpler than it may seem. They’re designed to be quick and simple, helping your device stay secure and running smoothly without disrupting your work.
When an update to your Android device is available, you’ll receive a notification. Simply tap on it to start downloading. The installation usually happens overnight or when you’re not using your device, making it effortless.
Here’s how to check your device’s 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 Android device regularly?
Let’s unveil all the benefits you’ll experience from installing latest Android updates. Some crucial reasons for which you should stay up-to-date include:
New features.
Keeping your phone at newest Android version unlocks exciting features. For example, Android 15 and 16 introduced a range of upgrades to Android versions, from smoother performance to handy tools to boost your productivity.
Here are a few points to check out, so you can make the most out of your Android device offers.
Android 15:
- Private Space: This new feature creates a secure place on your Android device to store sensitive apps and files for more privacy.
- Enhanced camera controls: Experience Low Light Boost and in-app camera controls that work better in low-light conditions. Third-party apps now have greater camera control, like more precise flash settings.
- Multitasking features: Android 15 can help you get more work done on your devices. App Pairing allows you to quickly access your favourite split-screen pairing. You can also customize your pinned apps in your home screen taskbar.
- Theft Detection Lock: This security tool uses AI to protect your data. It detects if someone has snatched your device and automatically locks it.
Android 16:
- Enhanced Quick Settings: This Android update includes larger tiles and improved toggle animations.
- Advanced Protection: Experience strongest defence against malicious apps, online attacks, scam calls, unsecured websites, and more, enabled through a single click.
- Live updates: Track your ride or delivery directly from your notifications with compatible apps.
- Material 3 Expressive: Android 16 uses the new Material 3 Expressive designed to give a modern look to your device’s interface, with more updates coming later this year.
- Accessibility enhancements: Enjoy 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
https://www.android.com/intl/en_in/new-features-on-android/.
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 helps safeguarding your data. Check for security updates by going to Settings > Security & privacy, then System & updates.
Security updates includes protection against new threats and help keep personal data, such as photos, messages and apps, secure.
how 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 to latest Android version helps it manage power better, which provides a longer battery life.
So, whether you’re gaming or streaming the latest Netflix series, the latest update helps your Android device run faster and smoother.
Upgrade your Android device to latest version for bug fixes and stability enhancements.
Updating your phone removes bugs and glitches that can cause apps to crash, features to malfunction, or the operating system to freeze. So, keeping your Android device at latest version 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 version for enhanced app compatibility.
Updating your Android device to latest version enhances compatibility with the latest versions of apps. After all, you don’t want to run into any issues when using your favourite apps. Installing important updates can help prevent potential problems and ensure you can access all the features offered by your frequently used apps.
What happens if I don’t upgrade my Android version?
If you don’t keep your phone or other Android-powered device updated to latest Android versions, 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 update your Android device, 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 potential.