How to update Android software version on Samsung phone or tablet

How to update the software on your phone How to update the software on your phone

Operating system updates are released regularly, if you are experiencing difficulty with your device, always check for updates, as a fix for your problem may have already been released.

Software updates fall into two general types: operating system updates and security updates. The type and version of available update depends on your device model. Older devices may not always be able to update to the latest Android version due to hardware limitations.

If you’re trying to update your software because of problems with a particular app you can find out more about how to fix apps that crashing or freezing.

Older Android versions were named after sweets and desserts, such as Marshmallow and Lollipop, but your device will always display your Android version as a number.

See the table below for reference:

Checking for updates

Android code name    

Version number

14

14.0

13

13.0

12L

12.1

12

12.0

11

11.0

10

10.0

Pie

9.0

Oreo

8.0 - 8.1

Nougat

7.0 - 7.1.2

How to check for updates

The steps to check for software updates differ depending on your device and its current operating system. Follow the steps below that correspond to your current Android version.

Software updates are released at different stages, depending on your location and mobile carrier. If there are no updates available, then your device is already updated to latest version.

Please note:

  • Updates can use a lot of data and take some time to install. It is recommended to only download updates over a Wi-Fi connection to avoid using your mobile data allowance.
  • To ensure that your device is always up to date, it's recommended to switch on Download updates automatically (Marshmallow Android 6 devices and above).
  • The images used below are for a mobile phone, the updating steps on a tablet should be the same.
1 Open the Settings app
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?
2 Tap About phone or About device

If you tapped About device, skip step 3.

How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?
3 Tap Software information
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?

You will be shown all the software information for your device including your current Android version.

How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?
1 Swipe up on the home screen to access your apps
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?
2 Tap Settings
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?
3 Tap Software update
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?
4 Tap Download and install
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?

Please note: to automatically download future software updates, toggle Auto download over Wi-Fi on

1 Swipe up to access your apps
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?
2 Tap Settings
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?
3 Tap Software update
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?
4 Tap Download updates manually
How do I check for operating system updates on my Samsung Galaxy device?

Please note: to automatically download future software updates, toggle Auto download over Wi-Fi on

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