Latest Android update. Updating Android devices via computer

The operating version of Android is constantly updated: new versions, patches, improvements, and so on appear. Naturally, it is important for every user that their mobile device has the current version of the operating system with the latest updates.

It often happens that a person purchases a new smartphone on which the current default version of the system, current at the time of production of the device, is installed, the so-called basic configuration. Accordingly, for comfortable and stable operation of the gadget, you can make current updates. In addition, while using the gadget, the manufacturer brand may release a software update with a new version of the operating system, to which you can update the device. In any case, the user asks the question: “How to update the Android version on the phone?”

There are several ways to do this. In our article we will analyze in detail each method of updating the OS on a smartphone.

Why update Android?

Like any complex and multifunctional system, the Android OS requires constant improvements. This is due to the fact that in each version of the operating system, vulnerabilities appear over time, which can lead to critical errors. Therefore, along with the update, the shortcomings of previous versions are eliminated in the system, the stability and speed of the OS are optimized. In addition, the system adapts to the installation of new applications that might not run on older versions of the OS.

It is very important to consider that when updating the system, all user settings and files may be lost. Therefore, before updating your phone to the latest version of Android, you need to transfer all the necessary applications to a memory card, and save photos, videos, documents and other personal files on your computer or also copy them to external memory.

In order to update the Android system, there are two main ways:

Through the smartphone settings

Using a computer

Let's look at detailed instructions for each method.

Android update through settings

System updates appear quite often. To install them, the user does not require any special knowledge, and in addition, all updates are supplied free of charge. To install them, it is important to meet several conditions:

The phone must be connected to the Internet

You need a sufficient supply of traffic to download a large update package, and it is better if the smartphone is connected to the Internet via Wi-Fi networks

The device must be charged at least 50%, as updates, depending on the volume, may take considerable time

After the phone is prepared for the update, you can begin the procedure itself. For most Android smartphone models, the system update process follows the same algorithm.

To compile detailed update instructions, we needed a powerful and at the same time affordable smartphone with the current version of Android that supports regular software updates. As a test gadget, we decided to use the products of the British company Wileyfox. Smartphones from the young brand over the past 1.5 years have consistently been distinguished by high build quality, excellent performance and the presence of up-to-date software that requires only the most necessary system updates.

We will demonstrate how to update the Android version on a Wileyfox Swift 2 phone. One of the most notable new products of 2017 in the budget segment, this model stands out among its competitors with its rather powerful hardware. The 1.4 GHz 8-core processor has a high power reserve not only for working with large applications, but also for maintaining stable system operation and its full updates.

It is worth noting that the capacious 2700 mAh lithium-polymer battery was more than enough for the entire system update process. Considering the active operation of the processor, during the entire update the battery indicator decreased by only 5%.

The process of updating Android through the settings is very simple:

Go to Android settings

Select “About phone”

Click on "Updates via Wi-Fi"

The system will inform you about the current version and also offer to check for updates.

In the drop-down menu in the upper right corner you can configure the frequency of checking for updates, as well as set manual or automatic download of updates when Wi-Fi is on

To check for updates, turn on the Internet

Select the “Update” command

After the update package is downloaded, click “Install updates”.

During the update process, the system will reboot several times. First, the shell update process will be performed, after which Android will reconfigure system applications.

Updating Android using a computer

You can also upgrade the operating system using a computer. This is a more complex and responsible procedure, since it requires the installation of additional programs for flashing and updating gadgets. If you are not confident in your technical knowledge, it is better not to undertake an independent update via PC, but to contact a specialist.

For certain models, separate utilities are suitable, which can be downloaded for free on the Internet. In particular, Wileyfox smartphones are updated using the Flash Tool. In addition, you will additionally need to download firmware with an updated version of Android. Wileyfox users can find the required firmware on the company's official forum.

To install the firmware, follow these steps:

Connect your smartphone to PC via USB cable

In Device Manager, find your gadget and check for drivers. You can download and install them automatically.

Launch Flash Tool

Specify the path to the firmware file (scatter file) by clicking “Scatter Loading”

In download mode, select “Download Only” Cancel the reboot, Click “Download”

In a few minutes the updates will be installed. We warn you once again that this method requires a responsible approach and special technical skills. It is much more convenient to use the standard method of updating the system, when Android will do almost all the work for you.

In conclusion, it should also be noted that on the forums many users ask the question: “Is it possible to update the Android version on a phone through applications?” We answer - it is possible. Google Play contains several special utilities for updating the OS, for example, ROM Manager or ClockWorkMod Recovery. But it’s worth considering that they require rooting your phone to work. In addition to the fact that the process of obtaining root rights itself can cause certain difficulties for an unprepared user, a rooted phone is forever out of warranty service.

Many experienced Android owners are often forced or intentionally updating the firmware to fix bugs or get new features. You will learn how to update the firmware on Android from this article.

Why update firmware on Android

Here is a partial list of reasons:

1. Get new and/or previously unavailable features/features.
2. Fix identified errors and problems in the firmware.
3. Close vulnerabilities and security holes.
4. Improve device performance or speed up an outdated device.
5. Download some games and applications that do not work on outdated versions of the system.

Types, differences and features of updates

Standard firmware

There are 2 types of updates:

1. Intermediate.
2. Complete.

The interim update contains fixes and improvements within the current OS version. For example, if Android is 5.0, then updates are applicable only to this version. Typically, builds of this type contain only fixes and rarely seen innovations. Interim updates also contain security fixes that close possible holes for hacking the device.

The full version includes more changes than the intermediate version. The package contains all the necessary files for a clean installation. Suitable for restoring a device after unsuccessful firmware or for updating to a new version of Android, for example from 7.1 to 8.0.

MIUI firmware

The system is presented mainly on Xiaomi devices. The firmware is also often installed on models from other manufacturers in the form of a custom modification. As with most other standard firmware, the system is also available as an intermediate and full package.

At the same time, MIUI uses a distinctive approach in the development and distribution of firmware, in comparison with other manufacturers. Two types of firmware are available:

Chinese. The firmware is intended for users/developers/testers from the Middle Kingdom, since it contains only English and Chinese localization. Release order: Alpha build - Beta, for developers - Stable version.

Global. The system is designed for users of other countries, as it contains an expanded language package. Release order: Beta, for developers - Stable version.

Distinctive features of the firmware

Alpha version. The firmware contains the latest innovations and is updated more often. The system is only available to some Chinese testers/developers.

Beta version. Test build, where previously found errors are fixed. The firmware is available to everyone, and a new build is released weekly on Friday, with the exception of major Chinese holidays.

Stable version. Usually comes out every 3-6 months where most of the bugs are fixed. The system is better debugged compared to weekly builds and is more suitable for constant use.

Third party firmware

There are also many different firmwares on the network, developed by companies, experienced developers or a group of enthusiasts. Builds are also classified into alpha, bata and final. The latter is the best option and contains fewer errors. The quality of implementation and support of the system is influenced by the experience and interest of the developers.

Firmware update methods

An Android owner has 4 ways to update the firmware:

1. Built-in FOTA option.
2. Through factory recovery.
3. Using a computer.
4. Using third party recovery.

Firmware update via FOTA

Abbreviation FOTA (OTA), translated from English Firmware Over The Air - firmware over the air. The standard method for obtaining and updating firmware for most Android devices.

The principle of operation is to download the firmware from the manufacturer’s server and then install it. The process is automated and does not require the participation of the owner. All you need to do is check for updates, download the file if available, and allow installation. To do this, open the settings section, select “updates” and click on the check for updates button.

For Xiaomi devices with MIUI, in addition to OTA, a second update method is available. If you have the firmware, just download the file to your phone, and then go through the standard update menu, where you can select and install the firmware.

The advantages of the method are complete automation. The owner does not need to delve into the process of installing the firmware and does not have to worry about losing the warranty.

The disadvantage is the lack of long-term support from most manufacturers. Some models do not receive the update at all. Often, in fact, there is an update, but it is not possible to get the file from the server.

Firmware update via factory recovery

Android devices are equipped with a recovery mode. The section is used primarily for resetting settings when the system does not boot, and also for quickly clearing user data. At the same time, factory recovery mode allows you to install firmware updates, usually only intermediate types. And for Xiaomi smartphones, this method is one of the main ones for installing a new firmware version.

The method is relevant when there is an update for the phone, but it is not downloaded via FOTA. Then just download the update file called “update” into memory, it will boot into recovery mode, where you select the file and start the update process.

The disadvantages include some difficulties in finding the update file. More steps are required. Also, only official firmware can be installed; modifications cannot be installed. And since the device support cycle rarely exceeds more than a year, 1.5-2 years for flagships, it is not always possible to update the firmware.

Firmware update using a computer

A computer is required to install the full firmware package or some sections. This method is most often used during official updates. And for some models, firmware for semi-custom assemblies is available - partial modifications assembled on the factory firmware.

When using this method, you will need a laptop. Also drivers for the device being flashed, a program for installing the system and the firmware file itself. The process is also not complicated. All you need to do is connect the device, run the program, specify the path to the file location and confirm the action. The rest will take place without user intervention.

The most crucial moment is the correct choice of firmware. Typically, protective mechanisms prevent the installation of an incorrect assembly, but sometimes there are exceptions, and the device has to be restored.

The advantages include the ability to install a full firmware package, which is important when the update is not available via OTA. You can also flash an “improved” stock, where the author can remove unnecessary programs and services, and in return install a better version of applications.

The disadvantage is the same - the update is limited by the availability of firmware released by the manufacturer. You also need a computer, a program, drivers and a synchronization cable.

Firmware update using modified recovery

The previous three methods described updating a standard system, where the installation depended on the presence of an intermediate or full firmware package. If the manufacturer has stopped supporting, you will not be able to update the system. In such a case or when there is a desire to try an alternative firmware, for example MIUI instead of standard Android, custom, modified firmware is available.

The development and support of such systems is carried out by enthusiasts or experienced programmers. The level of firmware debugging cannot be compared with large electronics manufacturers. But it allows you to install the latest version of the OS on an old device and take advantage of new functions.

You will first need to install a modified version of recovery, which requires unlocking the bootloader. The unlocking method is different for each model - hacking through a vulnerability, paid remote unlocking or free unlocking through the manufacturer.

The advantages lie in installing new versions of the system, which is important when the manufacturer has stopped supporting the device. Also installing “kernels” and other modifications, creating a backup copy of the system and restoring the system at any time.

The disadvantages are the need for third-party recovery and an unlocked bootloader. Also some time and knowledge on the part of the owner.

All Android users sooner or later think about updating the system. This is not surprising, because software developers do not hesitate to release the next new version. New updates usually open the door to new features, so users are often looking for a software update solution. In this article, we will offer you two options to solve this problem.

1) Software update via phone settings

This method is one of the simplest and most accessible for all users. You don't need to put in much effort, just follow the instructions. Screenshots were taken on Android 4.4 - KitKat.

Step 1

Backup. Typically, updating software through your phone settings is a virtually harmless process, but to avoid unwanted problems, you need to make a backup.

Step 3

Once you've opened Settings, scroll down the settings panel to System. Click on the "About device" item. Typically, depending on your device, this item may be titled "About Tablet" or "About Phone"

Step 4

Click on the "System Update" option.

Step 5

Next, click the “Download” or “Check Now” button. After this action, you will receive a message indicating that there are available updates for your system. It is worth noting that updating the system may take you a little time. It is also necessary to connect the device to Wi-Fi. After all the steps, reboot your devices.

That's probably all. If you experience any performance issues, errors or freezes after updating your device, then you need to reboot your device again.

2) Software update via computer

You can also use special programs to install the latest updates. The most famous such programs are Kies, as well as New PC Studio.

Step 1

Download the program to your computer. Install it.

Step 2

We connect the phone via a USB cable to the computer. If you have installed the Kies program, you need to open it and click the "Tools" tab.

Step 3

Next, select “Firmware update and initialization”. As a rule, after completing this procedure, the program itself will determine if there are available updates for your device. After all the steps, you need to restart the phone. Also, do not forget that even if you update the software via a computer, you still need the Internet.

Attention!

Whatever software update option you choose, remember that the slightest error or glitch can lead to your phone losing important data or simply turning into a brick. So be careful when installing updates. Don't forget to make backups. Good luck!

Today, many of us actively use tablets with the Android operating system (OS), which needs to be updated periodically. How to do it? There are several ways, which we will discuss below.

Of course, it is wrong to say that updating the OS on a tablet is a mandatory procedure. However, we still recommend that all users do this. Why? There are several reasons for this:

• Without updating the firmware, you will not be able to use all the capabilities of the device.
• The tablet may even stop functioning normally.
• Each update fixes various errors, improves the functionality and interface, and, therefore, makes using the device easier and more convenient.
• Without an updated OS version, it may be difficult to install new programs or games.
• Changing the firmware also improves the system for protecting confidential information contained in the device’s memory.
• The new version of Android improves the performance of the tablet, that is, web pages load faster (though not much), the work of some programs speeds up, the number of freezes decreases, etc.

Finally, it should be noted that updating the OS removes a lot of unnecessary information and data. This frees up a significant amount of RAM and hard drive space.

There are several ways to update Android on your tablet. First of all, let's talk about automatic update . Moreover, this is the most common option for changing the firmware.

As a rule, when a new version of Android OS is released, a notification appears on the tablet screen. Most often, it looks like a pop-up window in which, in addition to information about the possibility of changing the firmware, a request for permission to update the system is displayed. In this case, click “yes”, “allow”, “update”, etc.

As a result, the latest available firmware version is downloaded directly to the tablet and installed automatically. The maximum that is required of you is to agree several times with what will appear on the display.

However, remember that for automatic operation on a tablet you need a reliableWI— FI-Internet connection. It’s just that the size of the installation package of the new firmware sometimes exceeds 500 MB. It is quite difficult to download such a large file via a 3g or 4g connection. In addition, make sure that the battery charge is at least 40%. After all, if the tablet turns off during an update, this is fraught with serious consequences.

On average, it takes from 5 to 20 minutes to update the Android OS to the latest version (to 6 or 7 depending on the gadget itself). However, before starting the update procedure, it is recommended to close all applications. Don't be alarmed if your tablet turns off and on again several times. This is done in order not only to correctly install the new firmware, but also to optimize the applications available in the device’s memory. Otherwise, they may stop working correctly with installed updates.

How can I check if an updated OS version is available for my tablet?

To do this, you need to go to the “Settings” section. Next, scroll the list almost all the way down. There should be an item called “About the tablet” or “About the device”. Enter it. In addition to various information about the model itself, you will also find an indication of the current version of Android. There will also be a “System Update” button. If it is active, then after clicking on it, the download of the new firmware will begin. If you have the latest version of Android installed, then nothing will happen.

How to update Android via computer? It's not that complicated. You will need to connect the tablet via cable to your PC or laptop. Then you will need special software. For example, the Kies application from Samsung (each vendor has its own similar software: Lenovo has Downloader Lenovo, Huawei has HiSuite, LG has PC Suite, etc.).

This utility will check whether the latest firmware version is available on the manufacturer's servers. The result will be sent to the user in the form of a corresponding window. If an update is available, an Update button will appear. Click it, read the user agreement and study all the necessary information. Where necessary, do not forget to check the box next to the items “agree”, “allow”, etc.

We must not forget about another way to update the Android version. For this all you need is:

1. Go to the website of your tablet manufacturer - Huawei, Asus, Explay, Acer, Irbis, etc.
2. Then find the appropriate section where you can download the new version of the OS. As a rule, you need to first click on the “Support” link, and then find the “Downloads”, “Updates” or something similar there.
3. Next, select the firmware for your specific tablet model.
4. Download the special file and open it.
5. Follow all installer instructions during the installation process to change the OS to a new version.

A special utility will also help you update the Android version on your tablet. It's called AnyCut. Using this program is easy. Moreover, with the help of this utility, the system update process is simplified as much as possible. Let's tell you in more detail:

1. First you need to download “AnyCut” to your device. For example, through the Play Market.
2. Next you will need to install the program.
3. Then open the utility and activate the “System Information” item.
4. Click on “Check for updates”.
5. The program will check if there are new firmwares. If yes, it will offer to install them.

The advantage of AnyCut is its simple and understandable interface (even for a beginner). At the same time, you can check for updates through this utility in a few seconds.

Possible consequences after updating Android OS on the tablet

Many people are interested in the question of what problems with the device may arise after updating the Android OS. In fact, if you do everything correctly, then there will be no problems. At most, some applications will disappear or programs that are incompatible with the updated version of the OS will not work.

New icons may also appear on the desktop. These are the programs and applications that are provided by the developers. Typically they cannot be removed. However, many of them are absolutely unnecessary, and many do not even use them. You just have to put up with the presence of such applications and programs in the tablet’s memory.

In addition, updating the OS is not always useful for those devices that were purchased relatively long ago (3-4 years or more). The fact is that progress does not stand still, and new firmware is tailored for powerful and modern devices. As a result, the latest version of Android OS can even harm an old tablet.

Is it possible to return the old firmware version?

It's quite difficult. After all, on many devices there is no official option to “roll back” to the previous version. Of course, some craftsmen suggest downloading from the Internet and using various programs that return most of the functions and capabilities that were relevant with the old firmware. But all this is unoriginal software, often harmful to the entire system.

Therefore, it is best to take a closer look at the new version of Android and “use” it for at least a few days. Most likely, you will get used to the different interface and appreciate the new features. After which the desire to “return it the way it was” will disappear.

If, after a couple of days, you are still not used to updating the OS, then you can return the basic factory firmware. That is, the one that was installed on the tablet when you purchased it. To do this, you need to go to settings and find the “Reset settings” item. Mostly it is located in the “Confidentiality” or “Restore and Reset” sections.

On a note!

It is extremely important to note that tablets from different manufacturers have certain features for updating the Android OS. For example, for Samsung devices, to change the firmware to a newer one, you need a “Samsung Account”. Not to be confused with a Google account. You can create a Samsung account in the “Settings” menu by selecting “Accounts and synchronization”. Here the user will have to go through different stages of registration, specify a mailbox, and come up with a username and password.

Periodically, every device running Android OS needs to update the current version of the operating system. Of course, even without this, the gadget will remain in working order, but nevertheless, some problems may arise with the old version. Therefore, today we will talk about how to update Android.

Often, when a new model is launched, some software problems remain out of sight of the manufacturer. A conscientious developer always tries to eliminate shortcomings in previously released versions that were identified while using the gadget, and in addition, add new functions that are more user-friendly.

There are also third-party developers who do not work for a particular company that produces mobile devices, but produce their own, unofficial software (custom firmware) for many device models, which may be of even better quality than Android versions directly from the manufacturer.

In addition, devices from little-known manufacturers (usually Chinese) purchased outside the Russian Federation and not properly localized also need firmware updates.

How to update the version (firmware) of Android

Standard procedure

Official updates from the manufacturer are released quite regularly. As a rule, this applies to popular models of gadgets or devices produced by well-known companies.

Such updates are absolutely free, do not require special knowledge from the user and, as a rule, occur automatically. An Internet connection is required to check the firmware and update it.

Go to the main settings, in the section " System", at the very bottom we find the item " About the phone" (May be " About the device"), then open the position " System update" (May be " Update BY", on some models you will need to press the " Check now«):

The display will show " System check“, after which a message will appear indicating that the latest version is available or that it is being used, which means the system has been updated automatically. If this does not happen, then before upgrading to a new version of Android, we find out information about the firmware installed on a specific device. To do this, go back to the “About phone” section and at the very bottom we find the necessary information:

Knowing the current firmware version is necessary to obtain information about the availability of more recent software versions for a specific smartphone/tablet model and the possibility of installing them.

Note: if you are using a gadget whose software does not support the Russian language, then you need to find the items “ About tablet" or " About phone» and look for the necessary information there.

Using third party programs (ROM Manager)

Sometimes downloading an official update via Internet is impossible, and custom firmware cannot be installed this way at all. In this case, one of the best applications used for these purposes - .

Using this program, you can easily create system backups and (in our case) manually update the current version of Android, including on Chinese smartphones.

To work correctly with the program, it is necessary if your device is not rooted.

After launch, the program will ask you to install ClockWorkMod Recovery (CWM), this is a more advanced mod of the standard Recovery Android OS. We agree, and then do the following:

Loading on SD card your device, the required firmware (zip archive format), which can be found on the official website of the developer of our device, launch the utility ROM Manager, then select the menu item “ Install ROM from SD card" Using folder navigation, indicate the path to the archive on your SD card. Now let's activate the button " Save current ROM"(this is done to be able to roll back to the old version if you don’t like the new firmware) and select the “” position:

We agree with the reboot and the program will start the process of rebooting the smartphone in mode CWM and installing new firmware.

Also, the ROM Manager application will help in searching for firmware for a specific device; to do this, select “ Download firmware", and it may well be that there is something more suitable just for you.

Learn more about the app's features ROM Manager watch the video:

Via ClockWorkMod Recovery

It is possible that updating Android using the ROM Manager utility failed, especially this situation is possible on smartphones from Chinese or little-known manufacturers. In this case, you can use the CWM menu.

ClockworkMod Recovery (or CWM Recovery) is an analogue of standard recovery with advanced functions. This utility will not only help you perform a complete reset of the device or install patches for games, but will also update the firmware of your mobile gadget.

CWM supports most Android devices. In fact, every second modern Android smartphone (or tablet) is equipped with Modrecovery CWM. But if your device only has stock (standard) recovery, then install CWM Recovery using the ROM Manager application (see above).

After entering the ClockWorkMod Recovery menu, move using the volume key and first select “ wipe data/factory reset" (to reset all settings to factory settings), then " wipe cache"(to clear the cache). Now we find the line “ install zip from SD card" and confirm the action with the hardware button " Home"or the device power button (it plays the role of the " Yes»):

Note: for some device models, menu operation can be controlled using a sensor.

Next, getting to the point “ choose zip from sd card", indicate the path to the new firmware in the ZIP archive that was saved on the SD card, confirm the choice by clicking " Yes – Install /sdcard/update.zip»:

After completing the steps, the process of flashing our Android device will start. Upon completion, select “ reboot system now"to reboot the device and wait for the device to boot, which can take quite a long period of time.

Important ! Before updating the Android version (firmware), you need to fully charge the device, because the whole process will take about half an hour. During the firmware update, the smartphone will require a lot of energy to correctly complete the task. In addition, the display backlight will be at maximum brightness during the update procedure, and the update process interrupted due to a lack of power can lead to disastrous consequences.

Therefore, before you start updating your device, assess the degree of risk and try to approach the question of how to update the Android version responsibly. Good luck!