Full Guide: How to Check Software Updates on Samsung? [2026]

Regardless of which Samsung phone you own, keeping your software up to date is essential. Updates not only fix bugs from older versions but also introduce new and powerful features. Conversely, failing to update your device in time may cause it to perform poorly or even encounter issues.

Therefore, it's crucial for users to regularly check for software updates on Samsung Galaxy devices. Typically, there are three main methods to download updates on Samsung phones:

Method 1: How to Check Software Updates on Samsung Manually

Although updates are the enhanced versions of software, not every update runs better than the previous one, and sometimes a software update would even make the device go wrong. Thus, to avoid the unnecessary and unhelpful upgrade, some users would like to select the wanted update and perform the updating process manually.

Below is the detailed operation for your reference. To begin with, connect your phone to a Wi-Fi network, which can quicken the updating process and save money.

For Samsung with Android 8/7:

• Swipe up from the home screen to open your apps.
• Go to Settings and select Software update.
• Tap Download updates manually.



• If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.

For Samsung with Android 16/15/14/13/12/11/10:

• From the home screen, swipe up to open your apps.
• Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install before confirming. If an update is available, simply follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.

See Also: How to Transfer Data from Old to New Samsung? 7 Widely-used Means

Method 2: How to Download Samsung Software Updates Automatically

You can download Samsung software updates automatically to keep your device up to date without manual checks. By enabling this feature, your phone will download updates over Wi-Fi as soon as they become available. This ensures your Samsung device always runs the latest software with improved performance, security, and features. Here's how:

• Open the Settings app on your device from the home screen or app drawer.
• Tap Software update to access update settings
• Select Download and install to check for the latest updates.
• Toggle on Auto download over Wi-Fi to allow your device to automatically download future updates whenever it's connected to a Wi-Fi network.



• Once enabled, your device will periodically check for updates and download them in the background, ensuring your software stays up to date without manual intervention.

Method 3: How to Update Samsung Software on Schedule

All the users know that a software update will take a lot of time and the device would run slowly during the upgrading process. This would result in inconvenience, especially when we have to use our phone to deal with some affairs. In this case, you are suggested to set up a specific time to check the software update, namely update Samsung software on schedule.

• Open the Settings app on your Samsung device.
• Tap Software update.
• Select Download and install.
• Tap Update schedule or Schedule software updates (depending on your device model).
• Set your preferred time and day for the update to be installed automatically.



• Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi and has sufficient battery at the scheduled time.
• Your Samsung device will automatically download and install updates according to the schedule you set.

FAQs about Checking Software Updates on Samsung Galaxy

Q1: Will my data be lost when updating my Samsung Galaxy?

In most cases, software updates do not erase personal data such as photos, apps, or messages. However, it is strongly recommended to back up important files beforehand to avoid unexpected data loss.

Q2: Why can't my Samsung Galaxy find a new software update?

This may happen if your device is already running the latest version, the update hasn’t been released in your region yet, or your phone model no longer receives updates.

Q3: How long does it take to update a Samsung Galaxy device?

Update times vary depending on the update size and device model. Smaller updates may take about 10–20 minutes, while major updates can take up to an hour or more.

Q4: Can I stop a software update once it starts?

Once installation begins, updates usually cannot be paused or canceled. Make sure your device has sufficient battery power or is plugged in before starting. (Your Samsung phone is losing battery?)

Q5: What should I do if my Samsung Galaxy freezes during an update?

Try restarting the device by holding the Power button. If the phone remains frozen or stuck, professional tools like Dr.Fone System Repair (Android) can help restore the system safely.

Q6: Are software updates necessary for Samsung Galaxy devices?

Yes, but with some caution. Software updates are necessary because they fix bugs, improve security, and enhance performance on Samsung Galaxy devices. However, some users may delay updates due to storage limits or early-version issues, though installing them later is still recommended.

Q7: Do Samsung software updates require enough storage space?

Yes. Your device needs sufficient free storage to download and install updates, so it’s a good idea to clear unused apps or files before updating.

Q8: Can I update my Samsung Galaxy without a SIM card?

Yes. As long as your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, you can check for and install software updates without a SIM card.

Q9: What happens if I skip a Samsung software update?

Skipping updates may cause you to miss important security patches, bug fixes, and performance improvements, which could lead to slower performance or system issues over time.

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