'Why won't my Android update?': How to fix any Android updating issue, from low storage space to a faulty internet connection (2024)

Reviews Tech

Written by Chrissy Montelli

2020-01-24T19:26:00Z

'Why won't my Android update?': How to fix any Android updating issue, from low storage space to a faulty internet connection (1)

  • If your Android device won't update, it might have to do with your Wi-Fi connection, battery, storage space, or the age of your device.
  • Android mobile devices usually update automatically, but updates can be delayed or prevented for various reasons.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

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Like most modern devices, Android phones and tablets have to periodically install updates in order to keep themselves performing at top capacity.

However, if your Android device isn't receiving updates, it could be a sign of a bigger problem.

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Why your Android device won't update, and how to troubleshoot it

'Why won't my Android update?': How to fix any Android updating issue, from low storage space to a faulty internet connection (2)

If your Android mobile device isn't updating, there are a few possible explanations.

Work your way through the troubleshooting tips below to figure out why you might be missing out on updates.

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Your network connection isn't strong enough

'Why won't my Android update?': How to fix any Android updating issue, from low storage space to a faulty internet connection (3)

Android devices need to be connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data in order to successfully complete an update.

Check your wireless connection and try again.

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Your device is too old

'Why won't my Android update?': How to fix any Android updating issue, from low storage space to a faulty internet connection (4)

Certain Android devices that are several years old may no longer update because updates are no longer being created for those models.

For example, if you have a Samsung Galaxy phone from six years ago, your phone likely won't receive updates due to the presence of the newer Galaxy S10 models.

In those cases, to update your system, you'll have to buy a newer device.

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Your device doesn't have enough battery power to complete an update

'Why won't my Android update?': How to fix any Android updating issue, from low storage space to a faulty internet connection (5)

Since updates can take a long time to complete, many devices are required to have a certain amount of battery power before they can update. This is to ensure that the device won't shut off before the update has completed.

Plugging your device into its charger until it's fully charged and then trying to update should help.

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Your device doesn't have enough storage space to complete an update

'Why won't my Android update?': How to fix any Android updating issue, from low storage space to a faulty internet connection (6)

Updates generally require additional storage space in order to be completed properly.

If your Android device isn't updating and your storage space is relatively full, try deleting some apps you don't use, or large files like photos and videos.

Related coverage fromHow To Do Everything: Tech:

Chrissy Montelli is a writer and content creator originally from Long Island, NY. She is the author of two poetry chapbooks,Heart Float(Bottlecap Press) andGoing to Ithaca(Ghost City Press), as well as various online publications. Read more from her atchrissymontelli.wordpress.com.

On February 28, Axel Springer, Business Insider's parent company, joined 31 other media groups and filed a $2.3 billion suit against Google in Dutch court, alleging losses suffered due to the company's advertising practices.

Insider Inc. receives a commission when you buy through our links.

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'Why won't my Android update?': How to fix any Android updating issue, from low storage space to a faulty internet connection (2024)

FAQs

How to fix limited Wi-Fi connection on Android? ›

Phone
  1. Delete & re-add network.
  2. Check for problem apps.
  3. Restart the router & modem.
  4. Sign in to a public network.
  5. Reset all network settings.
  6. Check that hotspot is on.
  7. Contact your mobile carrier.
  8. Wi-Fi turns off when hotspot is on.

How to fix no internet connection on Android? ›

Restart your device.

If restarting doesn't work, switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data: Open your Settings app and tap Network & internet or Connections. Depending on your device, these options may be different. Turn Wi-Fi off and mobile data on, and check if there's a difference.

How do I fix my Android not updating? ›

So, if your device doesn't update the software follow the steps below:
  1. Delete apps you don't use. Deleting an app that you don't use is a simple way to free up storage space on your device. ...
  2. Clear cache and delete temporary files. 1 Go to Settings and select Apps. ...
  3. Try updating the software in Safe mode.
Mar 24, 2024

How do I force an old Android to update? ›

Open your device's Settings app. System & Updates. For security updates, tap Security Update. For Google Play system updates, tap Google Play system update.

How do I get rid of limited Internet connection? ›

How to Fix Limited Connectivity with Your Wi-Fi
  1. Restart Your Device to Fix Limited Connectivity. ...
  2. Double Check the Time and Date on Your Device. ...
  3. “ ...
  4. Double-Check Your IP Settings If You Have Limited Connectivity. ...
  5. See If Router or Modem Settings Are Updated. ...
  6. Update Your Device's Software to Improve Connectivity.

Why is my phone saying limited Internet connection? ›

Check Wi-Fi settings: Ensure that Wi-Fi is turned on in your phone's settings. Also, check if your phone is set to connect to the correct network. Restart your phone: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues. Try turning off your phone, waiting for a few seconds, and then turning it back on.

Why won't my phone connect to Wi-Fi but other devices will? ›

When Wi-Fi Isn't Working on Your Phone but Works for Others. 1 Restart your phone and router. 2 Check the network settings on your phone. 3 Disable and re-enable Wi-Fi on your phone.

How do I reconnect my Android to the internet? ›

Option 2: Add network
  1. Open your device's Settings app.
  2. Tap Network & internet Internet.
  3. At the bottom of the list, tap Add network. You may need to enter the network name (SSID) and security details.
  4. Tap Save.

Why is my phone refusing to update? ›

Check the Internet connection

Right off the bat, you need an active internet connection to download any software update on your device. In a case where you have an insufficient/expired data subscription, you won't be able to download the software update.

Can a phone be too old to update? ›

Your Android Device Will Eventually Stop Getting Updates

If you purchased a shiny new Samsung Galaxy Note 10 back in 2019, it received its last software update in 2023, and it's time for an upgrade. All Android devices will eventually stop getting updates as they age.

What is the latest Android version? ›

What Is The Latest Version of Android? The latest Android update took place in October 2023 with the release of Android 14.0, the newest Android version. It comes a bit over a year after the release of Android 13, which debuted in summer 2022.

How do I reset Wi-Fi settings on Android? ›

It's near the bottom of the Settings menu in the Settings app. This displays the General Management menu. Tap Reset. It's at the bottom of the General Management menu.

How to reset Wi-Fi? ›

How do I reset my WiFi router?
  1. Make sure the router is plugged in.
  2. Check your router for the reset button or WPS button. In most cases, this button is located on the back or bottom of your router.
  3. Press and hold the button for ten seconds. ...
  4. Release the button and wait for the device to reset and power back on.

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