Apps on your phone or computer regularly release updates. These can feel like an interruption, but keeping your apps up to date is one of the simplest things you can do to keep your devices running well and staying secure.
Why Updates Matter
Developers release updates for a few reasons:
- Bug fixes. If something was broken or acting strangely, an update often fixes it.
- Security patches. Hackers look for weaknesses in software. Updates close those gaps before they can be exploited.
- New features. Sometimes updates add useful new tools or improve how the app looks and works.
How to Update Apps on an iPhone
- Open the App Store.
- Tap your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Scroll down to see a list of apps waiting for updates.
- Tap Update All or update them one by one.
How to Update Apps on an Android Phone
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Tap your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Tap Manage apps and device.
- Tap Update all if updates are available.
How to Update Apps on a Windows Computer
Apps from the Microsoft Store update themselves automatically by default. For other programs like a web browser, look for a Help menu and an option like “Check for Updates.”
Turning On Automatic Updates
Both iPhone and Android let you switch on automatic updates so you never have to do this manually. Look in your phone settings under the App Store or Play Store section and enable automatic downloads. Your phone will update apps in the background, usually overnight when connected to Wi-Fi.
Spending two minutes updating your apps each week can prevent a lot of headaches down the road.