Upgrade an Android Phone and Tablet

4 Parts:

Steps

Tips

Warnings

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Google has rolled out its latest Android software, Kitkat. So if you are using the OS on your smartphone or Tablet, you might want to update it to get the most from your device. Updates are designed to fix certain issues from the previous version to ensure a better user experience. Android updates are usually over-the-air (OTA), thereby freeing the user from cables and desktop PCs. At the same time, they are launched gradually and the timing is dependent on the manufacturer and operator.

Generally, you will receive a notification when an update is available, but manual checking and upgrade is possible. Although the interface and process will vary depending on the device, here is a simple guide on how to update your phone to the latest version.

1. 1
   Before everything else, make sure that you back up your phone data, such as contacts and pictures

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   Although the upgrade process should not have an impact on your data, it is better to be safe than sorry.

   

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2. 2
   On your phone, navigate to the Settings menu of your device

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   On most Android devices, this is located in the app menu. The settings will usually have a cog or spanner logo.

   

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3. 3
   From the Settings menu, select "About Phone"

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   This is usually the last option on the Settings tab. This area provides information on the current version of your phone.

   

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4. 4
   Depending on the device, this menu may vary

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   Click on "Software Update" or its equivalent. If there is an available update, you will be prompted if you would like to install the new version. If yes, the new software will be downloaded and installed and the system will reboot.

   

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5. 5
   Then, that's it; your smart phone is now updated to the latest version.

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• When updating your phone, it is better to use a WiFi network. Updates rely greatly on data and will install much faster when connected via WiFi.
• Make sure you sync your device to the Gmail account associated with it. That way, it will be easier to download them again after the update.

• Charge your phone before updating. If the battery gets drained or goes to zero during the upgrade, your phone could become damaged. So make sure it has a charge of 80 percent or higher.
• If you have an older version and the update is not yet available on your phone, it is best to wait for the official release instead of finding ways to install the update on your phone.
• A hard or Factory Reset will not return your phone to its original software. A phone originally on Gingerbread and upgraded to Jellybean will not return to the original software after reboot. The device will stay on the latest OS installed.

If you have problems with any of the steps in this article, please ask a question for more help, or post in the comments section below.

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