Have you ever wondered what's new in the next Android update before you rush to install it on your device? This is a common question among those who want to keep their phone up to date but, at the same time, avoid unpleasant surprises with unexpected changes, compatibility issues, or simply not miss out on any interesting features. Understanding how to research what's new in each update and when it'll be available for your phone is the best way to get the most out of your smartphone and keep it secure and trouble-free.
In this article, we'll tell you, in detail and in clear language, how you can get ahead of the curve in the next version of Android coming to your phone. We'll cover official and unofficial ways to stay informed, steps to check your device's compatibility, the importance of security patches, and how to know if the update might cause any problems. We'll also detail the specific features depending on your phone brand and review the key new features of the latest versions of Android, as well as everything you should keep in mind before, during, and after installing an update.
Why is it important to know what an update includes before installing it?
Updating your phone is much more than just pressing a button and waiting. Each update can bring significant changes to the user experience, from new features, security tweaks, or even the disappearance of options you already took for granted. Therefore, it's best to know in advance what will happen to your phone before accepting any update. This will prevent disappointment, save time if a feature disappears or becomes worse, and allow you to decide when and how to update with complete confidence.
Steps to check the version and upcoming updates on your Android
- Always access your device's Settings. Go to the 'About phone' or 'About tablet' menu and look for the 'Android version', 'Android security update', and 'Build number' sections. From there, you'll see exactly what version you have installed and when you last received a patch or update.
- Check for new updates manually. Although Android usually notifies you with a notification when a new version is available, you can always check for yourself. In Settings, look for the "System" section and then "Software Update" or similar (the name may vary depending on the brand). There you'll see if an update is pending and, in many cases, even a small summary of changes (changelog) with the most important updates.
- Check the update history. On some devices, you'll be able to see a log of previously received patches and updates, which will help you understand the pace at which your brand releases regular improvements and whether your phone is within the official support cycle.
Where can I find out what's new in each update?
One of the best ways to find out what an update brings is read the changelog carefully The changelog that manufacturers and Google typically publish when they release a new version. However, these summaries are often brief or aimed at a highly technical audience. Here are some very effective strategies:
- Your manufacturer's official support page: On websites like Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Google Pixel, etc., they always publish detailed information about each update, with sections for specific models and specific notes about each version.
- Blogs and specialized forums: Portals such as Xataka Android, El Androide Libre, HDBlog, Android Police or even the forums of the user community of each brand usually analyze each update in depth, detailing even the least obvious changes, reported bugs and hidden improvements.
- Update tracking apps: There are applications in the Google Play Store such as 'CheckFirm', 'SamMobile', 'Firmware Info' or 'Update Tracker' that notify you not only when a new version is available, but can also tell you if there is a beta version in testing, the date on which the deployment has begun or the new features included according to the model and region.
- Social networks and Telegram channelsMany brands announce new features and updates first on official Telegram, Twitter (X), or Facebook channels before updating their websites. There are also user groups and channels where real-life experiences after installing each update are shared.
What to do before installing a new Android update
- Make sure you have enough batteryIdeally, your phone should be charged at over 75% or, if possible, connected to power throughout the entire process. This will prevent it from shutting down mid-update, which could render the device unusable.
- Download the update using Wi-Fi: New versions often weigh several hundred megabytes or even gigabytes. Using a Wi-Fi network ensures stable, faster downloads, and won't drain your mobile data bill.
- Check the compatibility of your device: Check that your phone is compatible with the update you're about to install. Some older models can't run newer versions or may have limited functionality.
- Read reviews and experiences from other usersBefore jumping in, check to see if the update has caused any issues on your model. Forums and other user comments often point to errors, bugs, or even improvements that aren't officially listed.
- Make a backup: It's essential to save your data first, because although it's rare, there's a chance you could lose important information after an update if something goes wrong.
How to investigate changes and updates in an Android update
El The usual procedure for knowing exactly what each update brings varies depending on the make and model., but there are some common guidelines:
- When you receive the update notification, look for the "What's New," "Release Notes," or "Changelog" link, which usually appears just before you start the process. The main changes will be listed there.
- If there isn't enough information, visit the manufacturer's website, search for your exact phone model, and locate the "Update History" section. They usually offer technical information and, often, practical details about added, removed, or fixed features.
- In communities like XDA Developers, Reddit (although it's hard to beat in ranking, you can find key information) or the official forums of each brand, users often post screenshots and detail changes not officially documented.
Security and system updates on Android
Not only are there the major annual operating system updates (Android 13, 14, 15, etc.), but every month Google releases so-called 'security patches' and 'Google Play system updates'. These patches are essential for keeping your phone protected against the vulnerabilities, malware, and security holes that appear frequently. They also often include small performance improvements, minor bug fixes, and optimizations for Google apps.
To check if you have the latest security version:
- Go to Settings -> Security & Privacy -> System & Updates. There you'll find the date of the last security patch applied and, usually, the option to check for a new update.
- If your phone isn't showing any updates but you haven't received patches in a while, try restarting it or checking if your model is still within the official support period.
Troubleshooting Updates
Android updates usually work well, but sometimes there are issues:
- Lack of storage spaceIf you see the message 'Not enough space,' delete unused photos, apps, or documents and free up space from your storage settings.
- An update does not finish downloadingAndroid will attempt to download it again in the following days. If you continue to have problems, restart your phone and try again.
- High battery consumption after updating: It's relatively normal to experience a few days after updating, as the system is optimizing files and apps. If the problem persists, check which apps are consuming the most battery power in Settings -> Battery.
- Compatibility: Older devices, even if they receive updates, may lose access to certain features or experience less fluid performance.
How to activate, install, and check for updates on major brands
Google Pixel
- Google Pixels are typically the first to receive the latest version of Android and monthly security patches. Updates are downloaded in the background and installed when the device restarts. You can force a check from Settings -> System -> System Update.
Samsung
- Go to Settings -> Software Update -> Download and Install. Samsung provides detailed information about each update on its website and sometimes in the Samsung Members app itself.
Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO
- Go to Settings -> About phone -> MIUI version (or HyperOS on newer models) -> Check for updates.
Other brands (vivo, OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, etc.)
- In general, always look for Settings -> System -> System Updates. Check the manufacturer's website for details on compatible devices and dates.
Which phones receive updates first?
The speed with which your phone receives new versions depends on the brand, model, update policy, and carrier. The Google Pixel, for example, is the first, followed by flagships from Samsung and Xiaomi. Mid-range and entry-level phones usually receive them several months later.
Some brands take advantage to launch beta programs where you can try out new Android features before everyone else. However, doing so carries additional risks, as these versions can be unstable.
What do the latest Android updates include?
From Android 13 to Android 15, Google has included important changes in each version focused on customization, privacy, performance, and compatibility with new devices:
- Material You and advanced customization (Android 12-13): Ability to adapt the entire system (icons, menus, widgets) to the wallpaper colors, language customization per application, and new accessibility controls.
- Enhanced privacy and security: Better managed permissions, real-time notification of camera and microphone access, options to block apps, and a private space to store sensitive apps or personal data.
- Connectivity and multimedia: Added support for spatial audio, improvements to Bluetooth compatibility and video playback, and direct integration with Google Home and smart devices.
- Performance and efficiency improvements: Optimized battery management, faster charging times, and reduced background resource usage.
- New widgets and multitasking management: Lock screen widgets (progressively available), richer multitasking on tablets, new windowed modes, and improved Picture-in-Picture.
- Monthly security patches: It's still essential to install them to cover vulnerabilities and keep your phone protected, although the update cycle varies by manufacturer.
Android 15: What's New and What's Coming
Android 15 is the next major release, which has gone through several phases of 'Developer Preview' and public betas:
- New version of Linux kernel for greater security and compatibility.
- Lock screen widgets (mainly tablets).
- Renewed Bluetooth connection panel and better quick access to linked devices.
- Application Archiving directly from the system to save space.
- Less intrusive notifications and the ability to mitigate repetitive warnings.
- Additional protection for OTP codes and access keys, preventing information theft by malicious apps.
- Internal performance improvements which speed up system startup and camera launch, as well as optimize multitasking on tablets.
- Expanded support for satellite connectivity (on compatible models).
- Redesign of icons in the status bar and new contrast options for accessibility.
- Quarterly Updates ('Feature Drops') that add improvements and features every few months, even between major releases.
How to know if an update will give you problems
The best advice is do not rushWait a few days after an update is released, search forums and user communities, and read the comments of people with the same model as you. This way, you'll know if there are any bugs, battery issues, app incompatibility issues, etc. Sometimes, you may decide to stay on the previous version if the new one is causing too much hassle. And remember: always keep your backup up to date.
App updates: beyond the operating system
In addition to Android updates, the applications installed on your mobile also receive improvements, patches and new features. Typically, apps are updated automatically from the Google Play Store, but you can do it manually or even install previous versions if an update is problematic. Remember that installing apps from outside the Play Store (using APKMirror or other trusted repositories) is possible, but it carries security risks.
- Update apps from the Play Store: Go to your Google Play Store profile, go to 'Manage apps and device,' go to 'Pending updates,' and update manually or enable automatic downloads based on your preference (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
- Update apps on Huawei phones (AppGallery): From the updates menu, you can review changes and enable automatic updates.
- Update apps on iPhone (App Store): Just as simple, log into your profile to manually manage or activate automatic updates.
With this guide, you can get ahead of the next Android update and learn about it before installing it. Share the information so more people know this trick.