How to update Android Tom's Guide Skip to main content Tom's Guide is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's why you can trust us. How to update Android By Peter Wolinski published 29 August 2022 Stay fresh and secure - here's how to update Android (Image credit: Tom's Guide) Knowing how to update Android doesn't just ensure your phone has the latest software features. See, when you install a new version of Google's operating system, the optimizations and security patches contained within make your device slicker and more secure, too. Consequently, updating Android is one of the best things you can be doing to look after your device and your personal information, and to have the most fun with your phone. If you're unsure about how to update Android - perhaps your new to the best Android phones or are just unsure - you needn't fear. It couldn't be simpler, and this guide has you covered. Here's how to update Android. How to update AndroidConnect to Wi-Fi and keep phone on chargeOpen the Settings appScroll down and tap SystemTap System updateTap Check for updateTap Download and installIf prompted, select Restart nowWait for Android to finish updating after restart Read on to see detailed instructions for each step. Note: this guide was produced using a Google Pixel. The steps may differ slightly on phones from other manufacturers using different versions of Android. However, steps 1 to 5 should more or less be the same. 1. Ensure you're connected to Wi-Fi, if possible, as major updates require large downloads. Ideally, put your phone on charge (some updates require your phone to be plugged in or have a certain amount of battery life). 2. Open the Settings app, then scroll down and tap System. (Image credit: Future) 3. Tap System update. (Image credit: Future) 4. Your device may tell you it is up to date. Disregard this and tap Check for update. If there is no update available, your system is up to date and you don't need to do anything else. If there is an update available, carry on with step 5. (Image credit: Future) 5. Tap Download and install if an update is available. (Image credit: Future) 6. Wait for the update to download and install. This can take a while. (Image credit: Future) 7. Sometimes your device may need to restart in order to complete the update. If prompted, select Restart now, or select a more convenient time for the device to restart and apply the update. (Image credit: Future) 8. Once your device restarts, swipe down from the top to bring up notifications. You'll see an Android System banner telling you the progress of the update. Follow any more prompts as required. (Image credit: Future) You now know how to update Android and can enjoy all the fun new features of a new major OS release. Or you can just bask in the comfort of applying the latest security features. Next, you'll want to figure out all of the things your phone can do, so make sure you check out our guides to multitude of Android hidden features. Don't know about Google Lens yet? Start with how to translate any text instantly on Android, how to identify any landmark on Android and how to identify any plant on Android. Concerned about security? Read how to change app permissions on Android. Need to share data? You'll want how to set up a Wi-Fi hotspot on Android. Just upgraded to Android 13? Find out how to get the Android 13 Easter egg. Gotta get that paper document turned into a PDF? Read how to scan documents on Samsung phones and tablets. If you have an iPhone, here's how to update your iPhone so you're running the latest iOS.Today's best Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro dealsReduced Price (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$199.99 (opens in new tab)$137.46 (opens in new tab)View Deal (opens in new tab)Reduced Price (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$199.99 (opens in new tab)$149.99 (opens in new tab)View Deal (opens in new tab)Reduced Price (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$199.99 (opens in new tab)$149.99 (opens in new tab)View Deal (opens in new tab)Show More DealsWe check over 250 million products every day for the best prices Be In the Know Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Peter WolinskiEditor, How To & CamerasPeter is Editor of the How To and Camera sections at Tom's Guide. As a writer, he covers topics including tech, photography, gaming, hardware, motoring and food & drink. Outside of work, he can usually be found telling everyone about his greyhounds, obsessively detailing his car, squeezing as many FPS as possible out of PC games, and perfecting his espresso shots. Topics Android Smartphones See all comments (1) 1 Comment Comment from the forums SB TG22 I have a 2021 Moto G Power and it updates automatically. 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