How to Check for App Updates on Android - 5 Easy Methods

Photo by Denny Mullert // Unsplash
In Android apps, some need updates, some don't, and most fall in between. 

Despite no shiny new features or obvious bugs, apps often need updates when Android changes Why? It's about keeping your phone safe.

Updating apps might seem simple, but there's more than one way. Picture your Android quietly taking care of updates while not using it. 

Join us as we uncover how to keep your Android phone safe and running well.

Quick Tip: Here's the fastest way to check for app updates on Android: Open the Google Play Store, click your profile icon, go to 'Manage apps & device,' and tap 'Update all.'

How to Check for App Updates on Android

There is more than one method of checking for app updates on Android. Let's explore one by one below:

1. Using Google Play Store

The Google Play Store is the most user-friendly way to check for app updates on your Android device. Follow these steps:

Open the Google Play Store and Access the Menu by Clicking the three horizontal lines or your profile icon.

Accessing the menu on PlayStore
Go to 'Manage apps & device.' This section displays a list of installed apps with available updates.
Checking updates on PlayStore
Checking updates on PlayStore
Update All or Individual Apps. You can update apps individually by clicking See details or choosing the 'Update all' option for a bulk update. If no updates are available, you'll see "No updates available."
Checking updates on PlayStore
Checking updates on PlayStore

2. Using the App Settings

Some apps offer built-in update checks. Here's how to use them:

Open the App. For this case, I'll use OGWhatsApp Pro as an example.

Checking app updates on OGWhatsApp Pro
Checking app updates on OGWhatsApp Pro
In the OG Setting, you'll find the Updates option.
Checking app updates on OGWhatsApp Pro
Checking app updates on OGWhatsApp Pro
In the update option, you might find an option like 'Check for updates.' Tapping this initiates a manual update check for the app.
Checking app updates on OGWhatsApp Pro
Checking app updates on OGWhatsApp Pro

3. Using a Third-Party App

If you prefer automation, consider using third-party apps such as 'AppMgr III' or 'App Updates Tracker' available on the Play Store. These apps simplify app management and updates.

4. Enable Auto-Updates for All Apps

To ensure all your apps are automatically updated without manual intervention, follow these steps:

Open the Google Play Store.

Access the menu by clicking the profile icon, then click 'Settings.'

Enabling auto updates on PlayStore
Enabling auto updates on PlayStore
Under 'General,' click network preferences and select 'Auto-update apps.'
Enabling auto updates on PlayStore
Choose between 'Auto-update apps over any network' or 'Auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only.'
Enabling auto updates on PlayStore
Enabling auto updates on PlayStore
Pro Tip: While auto-updates can be a time-saver, it's important to note that this feature may consume additional data, especially when you're not connected to Wi-Fi. You can configure this feature by navigating to 'Settings' within the Play Store and selecting your preferred auto-update option.

5. Notifications

Android usually provides notifications when app updates are available. You can tap these notifications to access the Play Store and update the apps quickly.

FAQs

Why do I need to update my Android apps?

Answer: App updates are essential to maintain optimal functionality and security. They bring new features and improvements, including vital security patches to protect your device from vulnerabilities.

Can I skip app updates if my apps are working fine?

Answer: While some apps work fine without updates, it's not recommended to skip updates. Despite no apparent issues, updates often contain crucial security enhancements that help keep your data safe.

How can I update apps automatically on Android?

Answer: You can enable automatic updates in the Google Play Store. Go to the Play Store settings, select 'Auto-update apps,' and choose whether you want updates over any network or only when connected to Wi-Fi.

What if I want to update apps manually?

Answer: You can manually update apps by opening the Google Play Store, going to 'Manage apps & device,' and tapping 'Update' next to individual apps. This allows you to control when each app is updated.

Are there any data usage concerns with auto-updates?

Answer: Yes, enabling auto-updates, especially over mobile data, can consume data. Configuring auto-updates to occur only over Wi-Fi is advisable to avoid excessive data usage, particularly if you have limited data plans.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive guide, we've explored 5 easy methods to keep your Android apps up-to-date, ensuring you have access to the latest features, security enhancements, and bug fixes. 

Feel free to share your experiences or questions in the comments below. I'm here to help you and provide further insights. 

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By: Belle Tech

Hi, this is Salum Belle. I like to write tech articles on my blog.

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