- Your device, plugged in or well charged
- Wi-Fi
- A recent backup (just in case)
Back up first
Updates rarely go wrong, but a fresh backup means you don't have to worry. See our photo backup guide.
iPhone or iPad
Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Tap Update Now or Install if one is waiting, and turn on Automatic Updates.
Android phone or tablet
Open Settings, then System > Software updates (Samsung: Software update > Download and install). Also check for a Google Play system update, usually under Security & privacy. Menu names vary by phone maker and software version. These steps were checked against official help pages in October 2026; if you don't see a label, search for it in your phone's Settings.
Windows PC
Select Start > Settings > Windows Update, then Check for updates. Install what's offered and restart when asked.
Mac
Choose the Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update. Install any update, and turn on automatic updates.
Update your apps too
Turn on automatic app updates in the App Store or Google Play, and let your web browser update itself (restart it now and then).
💡 Tip: if your device says it can no longer get updates, it may be past its support period. Avoid using it for banking or shopping, and consider replacing it.⚠️ Careful: real updates come from Settings or the official app store. Ignore pop-ups or emails telling you to download an “urgent update” from a link.
Why updates matter: What software updates actually do.
Shopping for a new device? See How to pick a phone or How to pick a computer.
Related game: Safe or Risky?. Related explainer: What software updates actually do .