Android system updates often offer security improvements, new design, and new features, but they can also become a headache if the device isn't properly prepared. Many users experience issues after updating, from faster battery drain to freezes, download errors, and loss of personal data.
This article offers a comprehensive and up-to-date guide on how to prepare your Android phone before and after an update. Whether you have a new device or one that's been in use for several years, here you'll learn everything you need to avoid errors, optimize the system, and get the most out of each new version that comes to your phone.
Before you update: Key steps to protect your Android
Updating an Android phone isn't just a matter of pressing a button. It's essential prepare the device correctly to avoid errors during installation and ensure you don't lose your important information.
1. Make a full backup
This is the most important step before any upgrade. A failed installation could lead to a complete formatting of the terminalTo avoid losing your photos, files, and settings:
- Activate the Backup automatic from Settings > Google > Backup.
- Check that your photos are synchronized with Google Photos or any other cloud service.
- Back up your important WhatsApp chats to Google Drive.
- If you can, make one manual copying to a computer via a USB cable or use apps like Helio.
2. Charge the battery to the maximum
Don't let your phone turn off in the middle of the installation. Although Android won't let you update if you have less than 20 or 30%, it's ideal to have the battery at 100% or at least plug it into power during the process.
3. Free up storage space
An update may require several GB of free space. If your phone is severely short on memory:
- Delete large or useless files from the file manager or using the app Google files.
- Uninstall apps you don't use or disable them if they can't be removed.
- Activate the recycle bin for review before emptying it permanently.
4. Check if the new version has bugs
Before you jump in, do your research. Errors are often reported in the early stages of deployment on forums, social media, or specialized websites. If there are complaints about your specific model, postpone installation few days.
5. Check the compatibility and origin of the ROM
If you are using a Custom rom (such as LineageOS), make sure it's compatible with your hardware. And if you update manually, double-check that it's the correct version (European, global, etc.), as installing the wrong one can cause software errors.
How to properly update your Android phone
Once you've prepared your device, it's time to check if an update is available and install it safely.
1. Search for and install the update
Go to Settings > System > Software update (may vary depending on the customization layer) and check for a new version. If an update appears, click on Download and install and follow the on-screen steps. It's normal for your phone to restart during the process.
2. Maintain a stable WiFi connection
Many updates are heavy, so it's best not to use mobile data. Also, a weak signal can cause download errors or interruptions in the facility.
3. Do not use your phone while updating
Avoid turning it off, moving it a lot, or using it during an update. Any physical or software interruption can corrupt the process and result in serious errors.
What to do after updating Android
Your phone already has the new system, but we're not done yet. After an update, it's essential to make some adjustments to avoid errors, optimize consumption and improve performance.
1. Check the system settings
Some updates restore default settings. Please check again:
- Network preferences: Make sure your mobile data, WiFi, and Bluetooth are set up as desired.
- App permissions: Check the privacy section to control which apps access your camera, microphone, location, etc.
- Synchronization options: Turn off what you're not using to save battery and data.
2. Update apps
Many apps need to be optimized for the new version of Android. Since Play Store > Manage apps and devices pulsa Update all.
3. Clear the system cache
When updating, temporary files are generated that can slow down performance. You can clear the cache partition as follows:
- Turn off the phone.
- Press simultaneously Volume up + Power (varies by model).
- Choose Wipe cache partition with the volume keys.
- Press Power to confirm and then choose Reboot now.
This does not erase your data.
4. Check the storage status
Updates can leave residue. Check in Settings> Storage how much space you have left. If you have less than 10% free, free up space to avoid future errors.
5. Detect and eliminate errors after the update
If your phone is running slow, restarting on its own, or is experiencing errors, you can try these solutions:
- Reset the device: since Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data.
- Do a hard reset: Enter recovery mode and select Wipe data / factory reset.
- Clear the update assistant cache: and a Settings > Apps > Update > Storage and clear the cache.
- Free up RAM: Prevent unnecessary apps from auto-starting and force-close unused apps.
6. Check for new updates or patches
Some manufacturers launch successive updates to fix bugs found after a major deployment. Check again for patches in Settings > Security > System Update.
Most common errors after an update and how to fix them
If your phone isn't working properly after installing a new version of Android, don't worry. These are common issues with known solutions.
1. Installation error: software is not compatible
This usually happens on phones with customization layers like MIUI (Xiaomi). You may be manually installing a ROM that doesn't correspond to your region. Always use the global version if you buy from Europe. Restart your device and check for updates again from the settings.
2. The download hangs
If the progress bar doesn't move, it could be due to a lack of space or a poor connection. Delete files, restart your router, or switch to a different Wi-Fi network.
3. Installation blocked due to low battery
Remember that many updates require at least 50% battery. Plug it in and try again.
4. The download does not start
It may be due to saturated servers or service outage. Wait a few hours and try again.
5. The mobile does not finish the installation
If the process is interrupted, perform a hard reset from recovery mode. This may resolve the issues and allow the update to complete successfully.
With this guide, you'll avoid update failures on Android while also fixing some bugs. Share the information and more people will be able to solve it..
