Helpful Guide
Software updates can feel like an interruption, especially if you only picked up your phone to check a message or make a quick call. But those updates often fix security problems, improve reliability, and stop small issues turning into bigger ones later on.
For many people, the easiest approach is to let the device handle most of this automatically. That way, you do not need to remember to check every week or wonder whether a pop-up is real.
The simple version: turn on automatic updates in your device settings, leave enough storage free for updates to install, and only update from the official settings menu or a trusted built-in prompt.
This guide explains why automatic updates matter, how to switch them on for iPhone, iPad, and Android, and what to do if a device is too old or keeps putting the update off.
Why updates matter more than they seem
Updates are not only about new features. They often include security fixes that close holes scammers or criminals can use. They can also improve battery life, sort out glitches, and make apps work more smoothly.
The National Cyber Security Centre advises people to install the latest software and app updates because they help protect devices from malware and other online threats.
A useful safety habit: if a message, advert, or web page tells you to update, do not use that link straight away. Open your device settings and check for updates there instead. If a pop-up came from a suspicious message, our guide on what to do after tapping a suspicious link on your phone can help you stay calm and check safely.
What automatic updates actually do
When automatic updates are turned on, your phone or tablet checks for approved software updates in the background. In many cases it downloads them while connected to Wi-Fi and installs them later, often overnight when the device is charging.
This does not mean the device will suddenly become unrecognisable. Most updates are routine. The main benefit is that you are less likely to miss important security fixes because life got busy or the reminder was dismissed.
Before you switch them on
A few quick checks make the process smoother:
- Connect to Wi-Fi if possible, especially for larger updates.
- Make sure the device can charge or has enough battery.
- Keep some free storage space so the update has room to download and install.
- Know your screen lock in case the device asks for your passcode after restarting.
If your device regularly says storage is full, it is worth sorting that out first. Our guide on what to do when your device says storage is full can help with that.
How to turn on automatic updates on iPhone or iPad
Apple lets you switch on automatic updates so your iPhone or iPad can download and install new versions of iOS or iPadOS more smoothly.
- Open Settings.
- Tap General.
- Tap Software Update.
- Tap Automatic Updates.
- Turn on the options for downloading and installing updates automatically.
Some devices show the options slightly differently, but the idea is the same: allow the device to fetch updates and, where possible, install them automatically when it is suitable.
Good iPhone habit: leave the device charging overnight from time to time and connected to Wi-Fi. That gives it the best chance to install updates without bothering you in the middle of the day.
How to turn on automatic updates on Android
Android phones and tablets vary a little by make, but most follow a similar route. The wording may mention system updates, security updates, or software updates.
- Open Settings.
- Look for System, Software update, or Security and privacy.
- Tap the update section.
- Turn on any option for automatic download, automatic install, or installing updates over Wi-Fi.
On some Android devices you may also see separate updates for Google Play system updates. These are worth accepting as well because they can include important security improvements.
If you cannot find the update option, use the search box inside Settings and search for update.
Should you install updates straight away?
In most cases, yes. For everyday home users, there is usually more risk in delaying important updates for weeks than there is in installing them. Security fixes matter, and most routine updates install without drama.
If you are worried about being interrupted, a sensible middle ground is to let the device download updates automatically and install them when it is charging later in the day or overnight.
Do not trust scare tactics. Real updates come from your device’s own settings and trusted system notifications. Be wary of web pages that shout about viruses, say your device is badly infected, or demand urgent payment to update something.
What to do if no update appears
Sometimes everything is working properly and there simply is not a new update waiting. At other times, one of these everyday issues gets in the way:
- The device is already up to date.
- There is not enough free storage.
- The battery is too low.
- Wi-Fi is weak or unavailable.
- The device is too old for the newest version.
If your phone or tablet is several years old and no longer receives updates, that does not always mean it must be replaced immediately. But it is a sign to be more careful and start planning ahead, especially if the device is used for email, banking, shopping, or storing personal information.
How families can help without taking over
If you are helping a parent, grandparent, or partner, try to make update settings understandable rather than mysterious. A calm ten-minute check together can remove a lot of worry.
Helpful ways to support someone include:
- Checking automatic updates are turned on.
- Making sure the person knows their passcode.
- Explaining that real updates come from Settings, not random pop-ups.
- Showing them how to check storage and battery if an update will not install.
Useful family rule: if a message says “update now” and it arrives by text, email, or an advert, ignore the link and go to Settings yourself.
When it is worth getting one-to-one help
Automatic updates are simple once they are set up, but not everyone wants to hunt through menus or work out why a device keeps postponing them. That is especially true if several devices in the house all behave slightly differently.
Simply Tech Support can help you turn on automatic updates, check whether an older device is still supported, free up space if updates keep failing, and make sure the settings are right without rushing or jargon.
You can visit the Simply Tech Support services page if you would like patient practical help with phones, tablets, laptops, email, or online safety.
