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How to Update Your Phone’s Software and Why It Matters
Keeping your phone’s software up to date is one of the simplest ways to keep your device secure, reliable, and running smoothly. Regular software updates can fix bugs, improve performance, add new features, and help protect your personal information from security threats.
Updates can also help your phone stay compatible with the latest apps, services, and network features, so you can get the most out of your device. But what exactly does a software update do, and how do you install one?
Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your phone up to date.
Why should you update your phone’s software?
Software updates are more than just new features. They often include important security patches that help protect your phone and personal data from emerging cyber threats.
Regular updates can also:
improve your phone’s performance
fix software bugs and glitches
enhance battery and system efficiency
ensure compatibility with newer apps
improve network and emergency service connectivity.
Keeping your device updated means you’re getting the best possible experience from your phone.
How to update your phone’s software
Updating your phone is usually quick and straightforward. The exact steps will depend on whether you have an iPhone or an Android device, but the process is similar for both.
Before you begin, it’s a good idea to:
connect to Wi-Fi
make sure your phone has at least 75% battery or is plugged in
back up important data if possible.
Many phones also have an automatic update option, so you won’t need to remember to check for updates yourself.
How to update an iPhone
Apple regularly releases updates for iOS that can include new features, bug fixes and security improvements.
To check for an update:
Open Settings on your iPhone.
Tap General.
Select Software Update.
Your iPhone will show the software version currently installed and whether an update is available.
If an update is available, tap Download and Install and follow the instructions on screen.
Apple also allows you to turn on automatic updates. Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates and choose your preferred update settings.
For more detailed instructions, visit Apple Support .
How to update an Android phone
Android phones can receive software and security updates, although the exact process can vary between manufacturers and models.
To check for an update:
Open your phone's Settings app.
Tap System.
Select Software updates.
Check the update status.
If an update is available, follow the instructions on screen.
Some Android phones may use slightly different menu names. If you can't find the software update option, check your phone manufacturer's support website.
For more information, visit Android Help.
How do you know when an update is available?
Most phones will notify you when a software update is available. You can also manually check through your phone's settings.
If you regularly forget to check, turning on automatic updates can make things easier. Your phone can download and install compatible updates without you having to remember to check every time.
Keep in mind that update availability can depend on your phone model, manufacturer, and software version. Older devices may eventually stop receiving new software or security updates.
If you’re having trouble checking for or installing an update, contact your phone manufacturer for assistance. They can provide guidance specific to your device.
How often should you update your phone?
It’s a good idea to install software updates whenever they become available. The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) recommends keeping your devices and apps updated because updates help fix security issues and improve overall performance.
Turning on automatic updates can make this even easier.
What if you don’t have enough storage?
Software updates need some free space to download and install. If your phone is running low on storage, try:
deleting apps you no longer use
removing old photos and videos
clearing downloaded files
backing up your photos and documents to cloud storage.
Once you’ve freed up some space, try the update again.
Will updating erase your data?
No. A normal software update won’t delete your photos, videos, apps, contacts, or other personal data.
That said, it’s always a good idea to back up important files before any major update, just in case.
Will a software update affect performance?
In most cases, updates are designed to improve your phone’s performance. They can make your device more stable, fix bugs, and improve security.
Do software updates cost money?
Software updates for iPhones and Android phones are free.
However, if you download an update using mobile data, it may count towards your data allowance. For larger updates, connecting to a secure Wi-Fi network is usually the best option.
Stay connected with Yomojo
Keeping your phone’s software up to date is a simple habit that can improve security, performance, and reliability. Combined with a flexible Yomojo mobile plan, it’s an easy way to keep your device running at its best and stay connected across Australia.
Sources:
1. Android and iPhone Help Support
2. Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), Update your devices, cyber.gov.au (accessed June 2026)