Whether you want the latest features or to keep your phone secure (or both!), software updates are crucial. Samsung's shaping up to be an industry leader when it comes to update support — but how do you actually, you know, update your Samsung phone? Read on to find out.

How to check for (and install) software updates on your Samsung Galaxy phone

  1. Open your phone's Settings
  2. Scroll down and tap Software update
  3. Select Download and install to check if an update is available
    • If an update is available, tap either Later to have your phone install it overnight or Download to start the process immediately.

You can also ensure your phone gets automatic software updates by following these simple steps.

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Scroll down and tap Software update
  3. Make sure the Auto download over Wi-Fi option is turned on

If you’d just like to know the software version currently on your device, here’s how to check.

  1. From your app drawer, open your phone's Settings
  2. Scroll down to the bottom and select About phone
  3. Tap Software information
    • Here you'll see which versions of both Android and Samsung's One UI skin your phone currently has (at the top), as well as which Android security patch (at the bottom).

With that, you're now a pro at updating your Samsung Galaxy phone. Looking for more Samsung content? Check out our guide on customizing One UI 4's always-on display and our picks for the best cases and chargers for the Galaxy S22 Ultra.