What Happens When You Update Your Android Phone or iPhone

Mehvish Mushtaq is a computer engineer by degree. Her love for Android and gadgets led her to develop the first Android app for Kashmir. Known as Dial Kashmir, she won the prestigious Nari Shakti award from the President of India. She has been writing about technology for 6+ years and her favorite categories include how-to guides, explainers, tips and tricks for Android, iOS/iPadOS, social media, and web apps.

Supreeth is passionate about technology and dedicates himself to helping people figure it out. An engineer by education, his understanding of the inner workings of all types of gadgets and devices ensures he provides top-notch guidance, tips, and recommendations to his readers. When away from the desk, you will find him traveling, playing FIFA, or hunting for a good movie.

2 Different Types of Software Updates

There are two different types of software updates your device will receive:

1. Version Updates

Major updates or operating system upgrades are some of the monikers given to version updates. For example, from Android 14 to 15 or iOS 17 to iOS 18. These are usually released annually and bring major changes to the operating system in the form of UI changes, new apps, settings, and more. System updates are larger, ranging from 700MB to 1.5GB or higher.

2. Security and Incremental Updates

Security updates are usually smaller in size and are rolled out often. They are also known as security patches. As the name suggests, they usually fix bugs in your current operating system and secure your phone from malicious attacks by fixing any security lapses.

Google Pixel handsets receive security updates every month. However, that’s not the case with all Android phones. If you are lucky, you might get them once in 2-3 months. Or you will not receive any, depending on the smartphone maker.

Meanwhile, smaller updates that mostly pack an issue fix are often referred to as incremental updates. In such updates, you will get minor new features and security updates bundled together.

Before You Update Your Smartphone

How to Update Your Android or iPhone

On Android

OpenSettings > System > Software Updatesand check if an update is available.

On iPhone

Go toSettings > General > Software Updateand check if an update is available.

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Last updated on 23 August, 2024

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