Having the latest version of the operating system and apps you use is pretty important. Here’s why, and how to make sure you’re always one step ahead.
Whether you’re watching a YouTube clip on your smartphone or browsing the web, update notifications can be an annoying distraction. All too often, it’s easy to swipe them away and forget about them. However, keeping your software and apps up to date is essential. It’s also quick, simple, and can avoid issues later on.
For starters, the latest app updates come with security updates too. Many of the apps you use store your personal info, and hackers can take advantage of outdated app design to steal your data. The best way to prevent that is with a quick update.
Updates also solve bug fixes. If you’ve ever tried to load an app and found it repeatedly crashing when you tap a certain button, the chances are it’s already been fixed in a newer version. So, it’s always worth checking.
As for your operating system, updates are there to improve your overall security, user experience, and remove any flaws and glitches.
To check that your Android phone’s system is updated, go to your settings, tap About phone and check for updates. From there, it’s easy to download and install.
If you have an iPhone, the process is just as easy. Plug your phone into a power source and connect to Wi-Fi. Go to Settings, then General, and tap Software Update. If there is an update available, tap Download and Install to keep your iPhone as fast and secure as possible.
For apps, the process is a little different. Here’s how to do it:
iPhone
Checking for app updates on iOS is incredibly easy. Head to the App Store and tap on the Updates tab. From there, you can see a list of all the apps you’ve already downloaded that have an update for you to install. Simply tap on the updates you want to install, sit back and relax.
The best way to keep your iPhone apps current is to enable auto-update. This scans for app updates when you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network, so you don’t burn through data when you’re downloading. To enable this, launch Settings, go to App Store and turn on automatic downloads. That way, you don’t have to worry.
Android
Keeping your apps up to date is pretty straightforward on most Android smartphones. No matter the manufacturer or model, the process is largely the same. Simply head to the Google Play Store, tap on the menu icon, then My apps & games. From there you’ll see the updates tab and it’ll automatically start checking to see if there are any.
If you want to make it even easier, you can set your Android device to auto-update whenever there’s an update available. Go to the Google Play Store, tap on the menu icon and head to Settings. You’ll see the Auto-update apps option on the menu, and you can choose between automatically updating apps over your network (that’s your data), or just over Wi-Fi. We’d recommend choosing the Wi-Fi option, as app updates can be a drain on data.
Speaking of data, you can always stay fully up to date with how much of your allowance you’ve used. Just open the iD Mobile app and keep track of your minutes and data. Using the app doesn’t consume any data either, so you can check wherever you are.
Need any more help with your smartphone? Check out our helpful guides in the iD Mobile Community!