How to update Android apps
Apps are an integral part of any operating system, and keeping them updated is of the utmost importance. Updates bring new features and fix stability and security issues. If you turn on automatic updates in the Google Play Store, you don’t need to worry about keeping apps up-to-date. However, if you want to update an app using something other than the Play Store or need an older version of an app, you have options.
The common way to update apps on premium andbudget Android phonesis via the Google Play Store. However, Android’s open nature allows you to update apps using other methods. This guide walks you through the common ways to update apps on your phone or tablet.
We recommend using the Google Play Store for all app updates. Do not sideload apps from untrusted or unknown sources. They could contain malware or compromise your device.
How to update Android apps using the Google Play Store
The Google Play Store comes preinstalled on most Android phones and is the easiest and most secure way to update your apps. Apps downloaded from the Play Store are protected byGoogle Play Protect, which scans your apps and devices for behavior that could be harmful. Here’s how to update apps via the Play Store:
Turn on auto-updates in the Play Store
You can manually update an app, and you can also turn on automatic updates to ensure that your apps are always up-to-date. Here’s how to do it:
If you only want a few apps to auto-update, go to the apps' pages, tap the vertical three-dot icon, and tapEnable auto update.
How to update Android apps using an APK
When a developer pushes an updated version of their app, it may take a few hours to a day until it appears on the Play Store. If you’ve been waiting for a major app update, you may want to install the updated version of the app manually via an Android Package file (APK).
Android uses APKs to install apps and services. You can install new apps and update your existing apps using APKs. APK Mirror is among the most popular APK repositories. Installing an updated app version via APK Mirror could be tricky and overwhelming as there could be many versions of the app you want to update.
If you’re not sure what version of the app is installed on your device, go toSettings>Apps>All apps, search for and select the app, and then tapCheck version.
While downloading an APK, you’ll see a regular APK file and an app bundle containing split APKs. APKs can be installed in a few taps using Android’s built-in package installer, whereas an App bundle can be installed using the APK Mirror app or Split APKs installer.
If you’re unfamiliar withhow to sideload apps, we created an in-depth guide that walks you through the process.
How to update an Android app using the Aurora Store
The Aurora Store is an open source Android app store that’s a safe and reliable alternative to the Google Play Store. Most of the popular apps on the Play Store are also available on the Aurora Store. Besides installing new applications, the Aurora Store app has an updates section where you’re able to install new updates, which may arrive quicker than on the Play Store.
The Aurora Store also lets you download apps from F-Droid. F-Droid is another Google Play Store alternative, but withfree and open source Android apps. If you want to allow F-Droid apps on the Aurora Store, go toSettings>Filters, and then toggle offFilter F-Droid apps.
It’s not a miracle cure, but it does have its uses
A little caution goes a long way
Downloading app updates is important to keep your device running smoothly and securely. It’s even more important to make sure these apps are downloaded from trusted sources. Websites and stores like APK Mirror and Aurora Store either have a huge user base or are open source and, therefore, trusted Google Play Store alternatives.
If you stumble upon an app store that looks legit, a few minutes of research goes a long way in protecting your privacy. If you want an automated way to scan your apps and device to make sure they’re secure,install the Google Play Store on your deviceso you have access to Play Protect.
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