How to Fix a Phone That Won’t Update Software

Edited 6 hours ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

Software UpdatesMobileSmartphoneDevice ManagementPhone SettingsAndroidAppleSoftware MaintenanceUser InterfaceDevice PerformanceApp ManagementDevice ConfigurationDevice CustomizationGoogleApple ServicesOperating SystemPerformance OptimizationDevice SettingsDevice SecurityUser Preferences

Updating your phone's software is essential to ensure the best performance, security, and access to the latest features. However, there may be times when your phone refuses to update. This problem can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to resolve it. This guide will cover various ways to fix a phone that won't update its software.

1. Check your internet connection

One of the main reasons why your phone may not be updating is that it does not have a stable internet connection. Make sure you are connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network as software updates can be large and consume a lot of data. Follow these steps to check your internet connection:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Wi-Fi.
3. Make sure you are connected to a Wi-Fi network.
4. To test your connection, open a web browser and try loading a website.

If your Internet connection is unstable, try restarting your router or connecting to another Wi-Fi network.

2. Check the available storage

Software updates require a certain amount of storage space. If your phone doesn't have enough free space, the update won't proceed. Here's how to check and free up storage:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Storage or Device Care.
3. Check the available storage on your device.
4. If storage is low, consider deleting unnecessary files, apps, or photos. You can also move items to an external storage device or cloud service.

When you have enough storage, try updating your phone again.

3. Restart your phone

Restarting your phone can often solve software update issues. Here's how to do it:

1. Press and hold the Power button until the power menu appears.
2. Tap Restart or Reboot.
3. Allow your phone to restart completely.

After restarting, go to Settings > Software update and try updating the software again.

4. Check for system updates manually

Sometimes, automatic updates may not work, and you will need to manually check for updates:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Software update or System update.
3. Tap Check for updates.
4. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

5. Make sure your phone is charged

Many devices require a minimum battery level (often greater than 50%) or being plugged into a charger to prevent the phone from shutting down during the update. Make sure your phone has enough battery life before updating.

6. Clear the cache

Corrupted cache data can sometimes prevent software updates. Clearing the cache can help resolve this issue:

1. Turn off your phone.
2. Press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power button (this combination may vary depending on the device).
3. Release the buttons when the manufacturer's logo appears.
4. Use the Volume buttons to navigate to Wipe Cache Partition and use the Power button to select it.
5. After the process is completed, select Reboot System Now.

After the phone restarts, try updating the software again.

7. Check compatibility

Your phone may not be updating because the new software is not compatible with your device. To make sure your phone is eligible for an update, check the manufacturer's website or contact customer support.

8. Reset network settings

Resetting network settings may resolve connectivity issues that might be preventing the update:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Tap General management or System.
3. Select Reset.
4. Select Reset network settings.
5. Confirm your choice.

Reconnect to your Wi-Fi network and try the update again.

9. Disable VPN and proxy

Sometimes, VPNs or proxies can interfere with the download of software updates. Temporarily disable any such services:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Tap Network & Internet.
3. Disable any active VPN or proxy settings.

After disabling these services, try the update again.

10. Factory reset

If all else fails, performing a factory reset can sometimes resolve software update issues. Before doing this, make sure you have backed up all your important data, as performing a factory reset will erase all data on your phone. Follow these steps to perform a factory reset:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select General management or System.
3. Tap Reset.
4. Select Factory data reset.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

After a factory reset, setup your phone again and check for software updates.

11. Contact manufacturer support

If none of the above methods work, it's time to contact your phone's manufacturer for assistance. Their customer service can provide specific instructions or further troubleshooting that may help solve your problem.

12. Use a computer to update

Some manufacturers provide software that allows you to update your phone's software using a computer. For example:

• Apple users can use iTunes.
• Samsung users can use Smart Switch.

Here's an example of updating using iTunes:

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
2. Open iTunes.
3. Select your device when it appears in iTunes.
4. Click Summary, then Check for Updates.
5. If an update is available, click Download and update.

Follow the same steps for other manufacturer software.

Conclusion

Software updates are vital for the smooth operation of your phone. If your phone is not updating, there may be a variety of reasons, from connectivity issues to storage limitations. Following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, such as checking for a stable Internet connection, ensuring sufficient storage, restarting your phone, and more, may help resolve the issue. Finally, contacting customer support if necessary or using a computer to update may provide additional assistance.

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