How to update Android apps: Easy Steps & Troubleshooting Tips

Whether you use a phone or tablet, updating the apps on your device ensures optimal performance and stability of your software, while also safeguarding against potential security vulnerabilities and providing access to the latest features and enhancements.

This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to update apps on Android. It covers various methods, troubleshoots common issues, and explores alternatives for devices without access to the Google Play Store.

Introduction

For an Android user, updating the apps means ensuring that your software is running its latest version. No matter what type of Android device you use, the process for updating apps is mostly the same.

This article will answer common questions like:

Why should you update Android apps?

Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why keeping the apps up to date on your phone is critical:

  • Security enhancements: Developers regularly patch vulnerabilities, so updating the apps protects your software from malware and hackers.
  • Performance improvements: Updates often optimize app performance, making your phone run smoother.
  • New features: With every update, you gain access to new features and enhancements that improve user experience.
  • Bug fixes: Updates resolve issues that may cause crashes or slow response times in the apps.

How to update an app on Android

Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Play Store app:
    Launch the Play Store on your phone.

  2. Access your profile:
    Tap your profile icon (usually located in the upper right corner). This icon provides access to your account and update settings.

  3. Manage Apps & Device:
    In the dropdown menu, select Manage apps & device. Here, you’ll see two sections: one for recently updated apps and another for updates available.

  4. Check for updates:
    Under the Updates available section, scroll through the list to see which apps require updates.

  5. Update a single app:
    To update a particular app, tap the Update button next to it. The update will download and install, replacing the older version with the latest version.

This is the official method to update an app on your device.

How to update all Android apps

For those who want to update every app at once, here’s how:

  1. Open the Play Store app:
    Begin by launching the Play Store on your phone.

  2. Access Manage Apps & Device:
    Tap your profile icon and select Manage apps & device. This screen displays all pending updates for the apps.

  3. Select Update All:
    At the top of the list, tap on Update all. This command will start downloading updates for every app simultaneously, ensuring that all the apps are refreshed to their latest version.

  4. Automatic Updates:
    To ensure that your phone always has the most up-to-date software, you can enable automatic updates:

    • Open the Play Store and tap your profile icon.
    • Go to Settings > Network preferences > Auto-update apps.
    • Choose your preferred update setting, and the apps will update automatically in the background when connected to Wi-Fi or your preferred network.

This is the most common and official method to update all the apps on your device.

How to update an app without Google Play Store

In some cases, your device may not come with the Google Play Store pre-installed, or you may choose not to use it. Below is a guide on how to update apps without relying on the Play Store.

  1. Use alternative App Stores:
    There are several reputable alternatives:
    • Amazon Appstore: Pre-installed on some devices, particularly Huawei phones.
    • APKMirror: A trusted online source for APK files that offers verified updates for the apps.
    • F-Droid: An open-source app store specifically for free and open-source software Android devices.

  2. Download the APK:
    Visit the alternative app store on your phone’s browser. Search for the app you want to update, and download the latest version APK file.

  3. Install the APK:
    Enable the option to Allow installation of apps from unknown sources and proceed with the installation process.

    See detailed instructions here: How to install APKs on Android.

Note: Always download APK files from trusted sources to avoid malware. If you’re wondering “how do you update” safely outside the Play Store, ensure the alternative store is reputable and the APK file is verified.

Note: You can also manually download and install the Google Play Store on your Android device.

Manually installing a specific Android app version

Sometimes, you may need to install a specific version of an app due to compatibility issues or personal preference. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Find the desired version:
    Look for a trusted website that hosts archived versions of APK files, such as APKMirror. Ensure that the version you’re downloading is verified and safe.

  2. Download the APK file:
    On your phone or tablet, download the APK file of the specific version you want to install.

  3. Enable Unknown Sources:
    As mentioned earlier, go to Settings > Security and enable installations from unknown sources. This allows you to install APKs without the Play Store.

  4. Install the APK:
    Open the downloaded file and follow the installation prompts. Once installed, the app should be the specific version you need.

  5. Prevent auto-updates:
    To avoid the app updating automatically to the latest version, disable auto-updates for that particular app in the Play Store settings or your chosen app store.

Troubleshooting: Common issues when updating apps

Even with clear instructions, sometimes updating the apps on your phone can hit a snag. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

1. Insufficient storage

  • Issue: Your phone may not have enough free space.
  • Solution: Delete unnecessary files or apps, clear cache data, or move media files to cloud storage or an SD card.
  • Tip: Regularly check your storage to ensure continuous updates.

2. Network issues

  • Issue: A poor or unstable internet connection can interrupt the update process.
  • Solution: Connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network before attempting to update the apps.
  • Tip: Switch between mobile data and Wi-Fi if one option is not stable.

3. App-specific errors

  • Issue: Sometimes, an app might not update due to issues with the app itself or compatibility problems.
  • Solution: Restart your phone and try updating again. If the problem persists, uninstall the app and reinstall it from the Play Store or another source.
  • Tip: Always backup data before uninstalling apps, especially if it contains important information.

4. Outdated operating system

  • Issue: Your Android version might be too old for the latest version of the app.
  • Solution: Check for a system update, as it can resolve compatibility issues.
  • Tip: Manufacturers such as Samsung, Huawei, Motorola, Asus, Oppo, and Google Pixel regularly release system updates to support new apps and features. Make sure to update your device whenever you receive update notifications.

5. Cache or data corruption

  • Issue: Corrupted cache or data can prevent an app from updating properly.
  • Solution: Clear the cache and data of the Google Play Store or the specific app through Settings > Apps > select the app > Storage > Clear Cache/Clear Data.
  • Tip: Clearing cache can often solve issues without affecting your personal data.

Tips and tricks for keeping your Android apps up-to-date

Here are some practical tips to ensure you’re always running the latest version of the apps on your device:

  • Enable automatic updates:
    This is the easiest way to make sure your Android device is always current. Automatic updates ensure the apps are refreshed automatically without manual intervention.

    Remember: “How do you update” your apps automatically? Simply turn on the auto-update setting in Google Play Store.

  • Regularly check for updates:
    Even if you enable automatic updates, it’s a good idea to periodically open the Play Store and manually check for updates. This helps if there’s a delay or if you have disabled auto-updates for certain apps.

  • Backup your data:
    Before major updates, especially if you’re updating software that might affect app functionality, back up your data. This is crucial if you ever need to revert changes or reinstall an app manually.

  • Monitor app reviews:
    Sometimes, an update might introduce bugs. Checking reviews on the Play Store can provide insight into whether other users are experiencing issues with a new update.

  • Use trusted sources:
    If you ever need to update an app without using the Play Store, always use reputable sources to download APK files. This protects your device from malicious software.

Conclusion

In summary, this guide has provided step-by-step instructions on how to update an app on Android, how to update all apps on Android, and how to update an app without the Play Store.

By enabling automatic updates, you can simplify the process and save time. Should you encounter any issues, revisit this guide for troubleshooting tips and detailed solutions.

Tags:
« Google Play Pass: benefits, features, and tips to make the most of it
Android Device Manager & Find My Device Ultimate Guide »
×