Updating your Android device to the latest version is one of the most important maintenance tasks you should perform. However, there is still uncertainty among users about the necessity and benefits of this process. If you are wondering Why update your Android device to the latest versionIn this guide, you'll discover all the reasons, benefits, potential issues, update methods, and solutions if your phone is no longer supported.
What does updating Android mean and why is it relevant?
Android updates don't just add visual improvements or minor enhancements. Its main purpose is strengthen security, optimize performance, and resolve detected errors in previous versions. They also introduce new features, improve compatibility with apps and services, and fix internal bugs. Behind each update, developers work to quickly respond to vulnerabilities detected by researchers, security companies, or even users themselves.
Android is a constantly evolving environment. Updates can be of two main types:
- Operating system updates: These include new versions of Android (e.g., from Android 13 to 14), interface improvements, new options, and changes to resource management.
- Security patch: These are minor but critical updates that prevent attacks, fix bugs, and maintain protection against threats. They are typically released monthly or based on detected issues.
Not updating Android carries risks that can affect both your privacy and your daily use of your device. From the simple inability to use new apps to exposure to malware or data theft.
Compelling reasons to update your Android device to the latest version
There are numerous reasons to keep your phone or tablet updated, beyond simple system recommendations or warning messages:
- Security enhancements: Digital security is essential. Updates fix discovered vulnerabilities and security holes, preventing malware, viruses, ransomware, keyloggers, and hacker attacks. If you don't install patches and stay on an outdated version, you're a prime target for cybercriminals.
- Performance and stability: Many bugs, slowdowns, or sudden freezes are resolved with new versions of Android. They improve the management of RAM, processor, and internal resources, making the user experience much smoother.
- Battery optimization: An updated system consumes less power and can offer additional battery-saving features. Each new version introduces improvements in this regard, allowing for extended daily usage time.
- New features and tools: Updates bring updated features, more advanced privacy settings, customization options, and exclusive tools not found in older versions.
- Application and service compatibility: Many apps stop working or fail to update on older versions of Android. By updating, you ensure the functionality of messaging, banking, gaming, productivity, and streaming apps.
- Design and interface improvements: With each release, Android implements visual optimizations, smoother transitions, and new ways to interact with your device.
- Greater protection of personal data: Recent versions often include stricter privacy controls and options, alerts for suspicious apps, and advanced permission management.
What happens if you don't update your Android?
Although the device may continue to function seemingly without problems, Not updating Android has direct and indirect consequences:
- Greater exposure to security risks: Security vulnerabilities discovered in older versions allow attackers to access your data, intercept communications, or install malware without your knowledge.
- Loss of access to new features: These aren't just aesthetic improvements, but also technical enhancements that can make it easier to use, automate tasks, add voice assistants, new gestures, and support for newer devices.
- Inability to use modern apps: Over time, developers stop offering support for older versions. This means you won't be able to install or update important apps, such as WhatsApp, mobile banking, educational platforms, social services, and more.
- Malfunction or incompatibility: Even apps that work can experience bugs, unexpected shutdowns, sync issues, or loss of functionality.
- Accelerated obsolescence: Staying on an older version accelerates the lifespan of your smartphone, forcing many users to upgrade sooner than necessary.
- No critical patches or bug fixes: Bugs discovered after release are only fixed through updates, so they can become more serious or even worse.
- Difficulty syncing with other devices: If you have newer wearables, tablets, or accessories, you may not be able to pair them properly with an older Android phone.
In extreme cases, an unupdated phone may be unusable for essential services or even have trouble accessing the internet or making secure calls.
Update types: operating system, security patches, and Google Play
Update tasks in Android can be divided into different categories based on their scope and function:
- Operating System (OS) Updates: These are the ones that change the base version of the system and usually include the most important new features in functions, design, permissions, and optimization (for example, going from Android 12 to 13). Here you can see how updates have been implemented in previous versions.
- Security updates: Google and manufacturers release monthly or quarterly patches that prevent attacks exploiting newly detected vulnerabilities, even if the system version remains unchanged.
- Google Play system updates: They focus on improving internal components of the operating system and expanding compatibility without having to change the entire version of Android. They allow security holes to be closed and essential services to be updated without user intervention.
Where and how to check your Android version and search for updates
To make sure you have the latest version, You can manually check the status of your system following these general steps (they may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer):
- Access the Settings app on your mobile phone or tablet.
- Scroll to Phone Information o About device.
- Search the sections Android version, Android security update y Build Number.
- To search for new software, select System & AFTER Software update o Check for updates.
- If you have an update available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.
Some devices automatically notify you when there are new developments, but it's a good idea to check manually from time to time.
Methods to update your Android: FOTA, PC, and proprietary tools
The most common way to update Android is through FOTA (Firmware Over The Air), That is, downloading and installing updates directly from the device itself, usually connected to a WiFi network to avoid consuming mobile data.
However, there are situations in which it may be necessary to use additional tools:
- PC Maker Tools: If your device doesn't support FOTA updates, you have root access, or you encounter an error, you can use official brand programs. Some notable examples:
- samsung kies3 for Samsung devices.
- Sony PC Companion for Sony Xperia mobiles.
- HTC SyncManager for HTC.
- Update to Android 6.0 Marshmallow
- HiSuite for Huawei mobiles.
These programs allow you to manually check for updates, download official ROMs, restore your system, or perform clean installs.
For other manufacturers, such as Realme, Xiaomi, or Google, there are also dedicated utilities for synchronizing and updating via computer if the FOTA preview fails.
Preparations and tips before installing an update
Before proceeding with an Android update, it's essential to follow some key steps to minimize the risk of data failure or loss:
- Stable WiFi network connection: Large updates can take up hundreds of megabytes or even gigabytes of data, so it's essential to use Wi-Fi instead of mobile data to avoid interruptions or costs.
- Full battery charge: Make sure your device has at least 80% battery or is connected to a charger. If your phone turns off during the process, it may become unusable.
- Make a backup: Save your photos, videos, documents, and important data to the cloud, an SD card, or your PC. Use Android's own backup tools or dedicated apps. It's recommended to store contacts on your SIM card and personal files off the internal storage.
- Disable root access: If your device is rooted, unroot it before updating. Modified phones often experience errors and may crash during the update.
- Check the available space: Free up space by deleting unnecessary files or apps. Many updates require at least twice the amount of free space compared to the downloaded file size to avoid problems.
Step by step: How to update your Android phone correctly
- Accede to Settings > System > Software update.
- Press on Check for updatesIf there is a new version, a message will appear.
- Follow the prompts to download the update file.
- Once downloaded, the system will prompt you to shut down and restart your device to install the update.
- During the process, you'll see the Android logo and messages about app and game optimization.
- When the device restarts, a successful update notification will appear.
If you have followed the previous steps, the risk of problems is very low, but if an error arises in the middle of the process, Do not force shutdown and contact the manufacturer's support. or repeat the update after charging the battery and freeing up space.
What to do if your Android phone is no longer receiving updates?
Over time, it's normal for manufacturers to stop updating certain models, especially entry-level and older devices. If your phone has reached the end of official support:
- Keep your apps up to date: Even if the system is obsolete, many apps continue to be updated for older versions over time, which helps maintain compatibility and reduce risks.
- Strengthen security with additional apps: Install a good antivirus, check app permissions, and be wary of installing apps outside of Google Play.
- Check for independent security patches: Some manufacturers continue to update only critical patches for one or two years after the major version has ended support.
- Consider installing custom ROMs: If you have advanced knowledge, you can opt for ROMs like LineageOS, which allow you to continue receiving new versions and security updates when the manufacturer has abandoned the device.
- Consider renewing your device: If incompatibility, poor performance, or security risks are high, it may be time to look for phones with long-term support policies.
Some manufacturers now offer 3 to 7 years of update support, especially for premium models, so it's a good idea to do your research before purchasing a new device.
Troubleshooting common issues during Android updates
Although the process is usually automatic, sometimes difficulties may ariseHere are the most common errors and how to fix them:
- "There is not enough space": Delete unnecessary files and apps. Move photos or videos to your SD card or the cloud and try again.
- Download interrupted: Check your Wi-Fi connection, restart your device, or move closer to your router to improve stability.
- Update not available: Not all phones receive updates at the same frequency. The schedule depends on the manufacturer and carrier. You can wait or check for updates manually.
- Device stuck in boot loop or severe error: In this case, use recovery mode or connect your phone to your PC to try restoring the system using the manufacturer's official tool.
- Low battery after update: After some updates, the system may temporarily consume more battery while it reindexes and optimizes data. If the problem persists after several days, check the background apps.
How long does an Android phone receive updates?
The duration of update support It depends on the brand, model, and range of the device. In general:
- Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy S, and select premium brands: 3-7 years of support between system and security patches. You can check the details of the latest version here.
- Mid-range phones: 2 to 3 years of system updates and 1 or 2 additional security patches.
- Entry-level and lesser-known brands: These typically only receive one or two system updates.
Check the manufacturer's official website or user forums to find out how long your phone is guaranteed to receive updates. This factor is key when renewing a device if you are looking for security and durability.
Differences between system updates and security updates
It's important to distinguish between the two types of updates, as some phones may no longer receive the latest version of Android but remain protected with temporary security patches.
- System updates: They modify the operating system core, add features, change the design, and can bring significant improvements to the user experience. They tend to be less frequent.
- Security updates: They don't change the look or feel of the feature, but they fix critical flaws that can be exploited. They are the main barrier against attacks and threats, and they have a shorter lifespan.
Be sure to keep both updates up to date for safe and efficient use of your device.
- Avoid installing apps or APK files from unknown sources so as not to open unnecessary security doors.
- Periodically review app permissions and uninstall those you no longer use.
- Use strong passwords and enable two-step authentication in important services.
- Always keep your device connected to a secure network when downloading and installing updates.
- Make regular backups, especially before updating.
Updating your Android is a simple yet essential task to ensure the security, performance, and compatibility of your device. By following good maintenance practices and staying tuned for update notifications, you can extend the lifespan of your phone and enjoy all its features without worry. If you have questions or need support, leave your comments at the bottom of this article and share your experiences with Android updates.