I only had to change this setting on my Android and the apps would update to the latest version without doing anything

As long as the mobile phone allows it (either due to its age or because the manufacturer no longer offers support), it is a good idea to have the phone with the latest version of the operating system, security patches and applications, because this way we will have solutions to bugs and vulnerabilities, but also news.

In this sense, one of the best mobile maintenance practices is to update your software. But doing it manually is a pain, as it requires knowing the versions to run them on the mobile. Fortunately, I long ago forgot to check if my cell phone is up to date because I already know: I activated some settings so that everything is always up to date without having to do almost anything.

Apps on my phone update automatically

Continue this adjustment to Self-updating apps have small print: This only works for those that have been downloaded from the official route, i.e. the Google Play Store. For the rest (in my case there are rather few), you will have to opt for the manual route.

However, I forgot to fully update the apps since I went to the Google Play Store and tapped on my profile picture, in 'Settings' > 'Network Preferences' > 'Automatically update apps“I set up automatic updates with a limited amount of mobile data.

This option prioritizes Wi-Fi usage, but if a major update is available and there is no Wi-Fi, it pulls mobile data. However, if you usually stay at home and have Internet there, “Update only with Wi-Fi'.

What about system updates? Here it requires a minimum of effort on my part, as it requires going to 'Settings' > 'System ' > 'Software updates' (the path will depend on the manufacturer) to check if you are up to date with the latest updates available. If not, a message will appear to update.

As for Google system updates, they are normally downloaded and installed automatically in the background, but you can check that the toggle is enabled in 'Adjusts' > 'Google' and in the tab 'All Services' > 'System Services Updates'. These downloads and installations take place at dawn, so as not to be interrupted while you are using your mobile.

Cover | Eva Rodriguez de Luis

In Xataka Android | Do you have the latest version of Android? Check it this easy