Why it matters
- The NCSC says updates include protection from viruses and other harmful software, and often new features too.
- If your phone asks you to update, don’t ignore it.
- Do it at home on Wi-Fi with the phone plugged in, because updates can take a while.
On an iPhone
- Plug your iPhone in and connect to Wi-Fi.
- Open Settings, then tap General.
- Tap Software Update. It shows which version you have and whether an update is ready.
- If there is one, tap Download and Install and follow the instructions. You’ll need your passcode.
Turn on automatic updates: in Software Update, tap Automatic Updates and turn on Automatically Install. Your iPhone then updates overnight while it’s charging on Wi-Fi.
On an Android phone
Menus vary a little by phone maker. If you can’t find these, type update in the search box at the top of Settings.
- Connect to Wi-Fi and charge your phone to at least 75%.
- Open Settings.
- Tap System, then Software updates.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install anything waiting.
Google says most system updates and security fixes install automatically. If you get an update notification, open it and tap the update button.
Update your apps too. The NCSC says to apply app updates as soon as they’re available, and to turn on automatic updates where you can.
If your phone is too old for updates
Phone makers eventually stop updating older models. The NCSC says a phone that no longer gets security updates is less secure. You don’t need the newest or most expensive model, but if you can, avoid using a phone that no longer gets updates. Search online for your model to check.
Sources
- National Cyber Security Centre (UK), Install the latest software and app updates, checked 11 Oct 2026.
- Apple Support, Update your iPhone or iPad, checked 11 Oct 2026.
- Android Help, Check and update your Android version, checked 11 Oct 2026.