How to Update Apps on Android

The Android operating system and its apps are constantly updated. Sometimes these patches include simple tweaks, new features, or security fixes and code adjustments to keep your information safe. Here's how to update apps on Android manually or automatically.

How to Manually Update Android Apps

If you want to update an app manually, go to Google Play. Here's how: 

1. Open the Google Play Store app.

2. Select Menu (the icon that looks like three horizontal lines), then choose My apps & games.

3. Select the Updates tab if needed, then do one of the following:

   • Tap Update All to download patches for all the apps that have available updates.
   • Tap Update next to a specific app to only update that app.

   Want to know what's new in the updated app? Tap the down arrow to the right of the app name to find out.

4. You may be asked to accept an app's terms of service. Read the list of information it collects or peripherals it accesses, then tap Accept to finish updating.

How to Update Apps on Android Automatically

Your mobile device can automatically update apps when an update becomes available. Give your device permission to proceed without your help. Here's how:

1. Open the Google Play Store app.

2. Select Menu > Settings.

3. Select Auto-update apps, then choose how you want to update. Your options are:

   • Over any network (data charges may apply).
   • Over Wi-Fi only.

   To turn off auto-updates, select Don't auto-update apps.

4. Select Done when finished.

How to Find Your Android OS Version

Wondering what version of Android your phone or tablet has? You need to know this information in case you have to prepare your device before you upgrade it, or if an app requires a specific Android version. To find this information:

1. Opening the Settings app.

2. To check if you have the latest version, tap either About phone or About tablet.

3. You'll see the Android version listed.