How to update Android apps

Keeping your Android apps up to date ensures you get the latest features, bug fixes, and security updates.

Whether you prefer automatic updates or want to handle updates manually, this guide will walk you through the different methods of updating your Android apps.

Update Android apps automatically

Automatic updates are a convenient way to ensure your apps are always up to date, without having to check for updates. To set up automatic updates for your Android apps, follow these steps:

1. Tap the Google Play Store app.
2. Tap your profile photo in the top right corner to open the menu.
3. Select ‘Settings’ from the drop-down menu.
4. Tap ‘Network Preferences’.
5. Tap ‘Automatically update apps’.
6. Select one of the options for how you want your apps to update automatically.

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Following these steps will automatically update your apps based on the network preference you selected; so you always have the latest versions on your device.

How to ensure that only certain Android apps update automatically

If you prefer that only specific apps update automatically, you can manage automatic updates on a per-app basis. Here’s how:

1. Launch the Google Play Store app.
2. Use the search bar to find the app you want to update automatically.
3. Tap the app to open the detailed page.
4. Tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner of the app page.
5. Check the box next to ‘Enable automatic updates’.

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Repeat these steps for each app you want to set to update automatically. This way you can ensure that only the apps you select are updated automatically.

Update Android apps manually

If you prefer to have full control over when your apps are updated, you can manually check for and install updates. Here’s how:

1. Open the Google Play Store app.
2. Tap your profile photo in the top right corner to open the menu.
3. Select ‘Manage apps & device’ then ‘Manage’. You will see a list of your installed apps.
4. Apps with available updates will appear as soon as you tap ‘Updates available’.
5. To update all apps at once, tap “Update All.”
6. To update individual apps, tap the Update button next to a specific app.

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

By manually updating your apps, you can ensure that you stay on top of every update and then decide when it’s convenient for you to install them.

You also want to make sure that your operating system has the latest patches applied. So check out How to Update Android for a step-by-step guide to achieving this. If you’re also considering upgrading your device yourself, our best Android phone review should be invaluable.