How to update all pre-installed apps on Android?
Updating all pre-installed apps on an Android device can ensure your apps stay secure and function properly. Pre-installed apps are usually system apps or apps that come with the device, like Google Chrome, Gmail, or manufacturer-specific apps (Samsung, OnePlus, etc.).
Here’s a step-by-step guide to update all pre-installed apps on Android:
1. Update Google Play Store Apps:
Most pre-installed apps can be updated via the Google Play Store. Follow these steps to update them all at once:
- Step 1: Open the Google Play Store app.
- Step 2: Tap on your profile icon (top-right corner of the screen).
- Step 3: Select Manage apps & device.
- Step 4: Under the “Overview” tab, you will see available updates.
- Step 5: Tap Update All to update all the apps in bulk.
This will update all apps that have available updates, including pre-installed apps like YouTube, Chrome, etc.
2. Update System
Apps via Settings:
Some pre-installed apps, particularly system apps, might not appear in the Google Play Store and require updating through system settings.
- Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Android device.
- Step 2: Scroll down and select Software update (or System update, depending on the manufacturer).
- Step 3: Check for any available updates and install them.
This will update your device’s operating system as well as any system apps that come with the update.
3. Update Manufacturer-Specific Apps:
If you have a device from manufacturers like Samsung or Xiaomi, they may have their own app stores for certain pre-installed apps (like Galaxy Store for Samsung devices).
- Step 1: Open the manufacturer’s app store (e.g., Samsung Galaxy Store).
- Step 2: Navigate to the Updates section.
- Step 3: Tap Update All to update manufacturer-specific apps.
4. Enable Auto-Updates:
To ensure all your apps, including pre-installed ones, stay up-to-date automatically:
- Step 1: Open the Google Play Store.
- Step 2: Tap your profile icon.
- Step 3: Select Settings → Network Preferences → Auto-update apps.
- Step 4: Choose Over any network (or Wi-Fi only to save data).
Now, your apps will update automatically when new versions are released.
5. Clear Cache/Data if Updates Are Not Appearing:
If updates for pre-installed apps are not appearing, you can try clearing the cache and data for the Google Play Store and the apps themselves.
- Step 1: Open Settings → Apps → Google Play Store.
- Step 2: Tap Storage → Clear Cache (and Clear Data if necessary).
- Step 3: Reopen the Google Play Store and try again.
By following these steps, you can ensure that all pre-installed apps on your Android device are kept up-to-date.
Why is important to update Android pre-installed apps?
It’s important to update Android pre-installed apps for several key reasons. While pre-installed apps may seem less critical than those you download yourself, they play a significant role in the overall functioning, security, and user experience of your device. Here’s why you should keep them updated:
1. Security Improvements
Vulnerability Fixes: Updates often patch security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers or malware. Keeping apps up to date helps protect your device from potential security threats.
Protection from Cyber Threats: Pre-installed apps like browsers (e.g., Google Chrome) or messaging apps are common targets for security threats, so updates are crucial to ensure they include the latest protection.
2. Bug Fixes and Performance Enhancements
Stability Improvements: Updates often contain fixes for bugs or glitches that might cause apps to crash, lag, or behave unpredictably. Regular updates ensure that pre-installed apps run smoothly.
Better Performance: Pre-installed apps that receive updates often include optimizations for faster loading times, reduced memory usage, and smoother interactions, improving the overall performance of your device.
3. New Features and Enhanced Functionality
Access to New Features: App updates frequently introduce new functionalities and improvements. For example, the Google Assistant, Maps, or even system apps like Camera and Gallery often get feature-rich updates, making them more efficient and user-friendly.
Improved User Interface: Updates can bring modern design elements, making apps easier and more enjoyable to use.
4. Compatibility with System Updates
Seamless Integration with Android Updates: As Android itself gets updated, pre-installed apps also need to stay compatible. If they aren’t updated, they may not work properly with new features or changes introduced in Android system updates.
Avoid Compatibility Issues: Outdated apps may not function well with newer versions of Android, causing app crashes or limited functionality.
5. Battery and Data Usage Optimization
Reduced Battery Drain: Updates can include optimizations that make pre-installed apps use less battery power. Older versions of apps may not be optimized and can drain the battery more quickly.
Lower Data Consumption: With app updates, developers can implement better data usage algorithms, saving on your mobile data consumption while using the app.
6. Legal Compliance and Privacy Protections
Compliance with New Regulations: As data privacy regulations evolve (such as GDPR), app updates often include changes to ensure compliance. This protects your personal information and keeps the app legally compliant.
Privacy Enhancements: Updates can improve privacy features, such as limiting background data collection or offering better control over app permissions.
7. Improved Device Longevity
Extended Device Life: By keeping pre-installed apps updated, you reduce the chance of system-wide issues, ensuring that your device operates smoothly over the long term. This can help avoid performance degradation and the need for frequent device replacements.
Updating Android pre-installed apps is essential for maintaining your device’s security, performance, and usability. While some users might overlook them, these updates provide critical enhancements that benefit both the apps and the entire Android ecosystem.