Have you ever received an update notification on your Android phone and wondered whether to install it without knowing exactly what it's going to change? Keeping our devices up-to-date is key to both enjoying new features and strengthening security, but sometimes we worry about encountering unexpected errors or issues after applying a patch or new system version. Knowing the details of an update before installing it can make the difference between a more secure and efficient device and one plagued with problems. What's new in an Android update before installing it.
In this article you will find All the relevant information to identify, understand and manage the new features that each Android update includes before pressing the install buttonWe'll explain in detail how to find out what improvements each new version includes, the steps and precautions to follow before updating, and resources to find out about potential bugs reported by other users. We'll also review the evolution of Android, the different types of updates, and how they affect the security, privacy, and performance of your smartphone.
Why is it so important to know what's included in an Android update before installing it?
Updating your Android phone's operating system isn't just about adding new features or making aesthetic changes. Each update can bring significant improvements in performance and, above all, security.The vulnerabilities that are fixed directly affect the protection of your data and the integrity of your device. However, installing an update without first knowing what's new can lead to errors, unexpected changes to the interface, loss of compatibility with certain applications, or battery issues.
Therefore, find out what's new and changed in an update before proceeding It lets you decide whether you're interested in installing it right away or waiting for other users to report their experiences, especially if you rely on your phone for work or have important information stored. You'll also be able to take better advantage of new features and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Some of the main reasons to be interested in the new features of each update include:
- Security improvements and protection against viruses and attacks: Security patches address vulnerabilities that could put your data at risk.
- New features and optimizations: From visual changes to productivity tools, each version can incorporate new features.
- Application and hardware compatibility: Some updates may render older features or apps obsolete, or require specific hardware requirements.
- Avoid serious mistakes: Occasionally, a new version may come with critical bugs that are discovered after its release.
Types of updates on Android devices: system, security, and applications
Before explaining how to identify the new features of each update, it is important to distinguish between the different Types of updates you can receive on an Android phone. Not all of them affect the functioning of the device equally:
- Operating system (OS) updates: These are typically released annually or as a one-time update and bring significant interface changes, new features, and performance improvements. Examples: Android 13, Android 14, Android 15.
- Security patch: These typically arrive monthly and their main purpose is to plug security holes and correct discovered vulnerabilities. They tend to be less noticeable to the user, but are absolutely crucial.
- Google Play system updates: Google uses Google Play to push out minor patches and security improvements directly, even to phones without the latest OS.
- Application Updates: Both system apps and those you've installed can be updated to add features, fix bugs, or adapt to new versions of Android.
Sometimes, a system update may be accompanied by several security patches. Apps, on the other hand, have their own release schedules and can receive updates even if your phone doesn't have the latest version of Android.
How to know if an update is available for your Android phone
Most manufacturers notify you by default when they detect an update available for your model. However, You can also check it manually from the system settings.The process may vary slightly between brands, but is usually very similar:
- Open the Settings app from your Android device.
- Scroll to the bottom and look for the section Phone Information, About device or directly Software update.
- Enter the section Android version o Upgrade system depending on your manufacturer. On Xiaomi, for example, the menu may be called Over the phone and on Samsung it appears as Software update in the main settings.
- You will see the current installed version and the option to Search for updates. Click to force verification.
If a new version is available, the system will notify you, and you can begin the download and installation. Otherwise, you'll see a message notifying you that you're up to date.
Where can I check for updates regarding an Android update before installing it?
One of the main challenges when receiving notification of a new version is figuring out what specific changes it includesThis can vary greatly depending on your phone brand and the type of update. We've provided the best ways to find out:
- Update notification: Many manufacturers include a short summary of new features when you download the new version. You can click on See changes o Release Notes to see a list. However, these notes are often very generic and not very detailed.
- Manufacturer's websiteThe most reliable way is to go to the official website of the brand (Motorola, Xiaomi, Samsung, vivo, etc.), where they usually publish detailed lists of new features, rollout dates, and compatible models. Look for sections like "Android update news."
- Forums and user communities: Platforms such as XDA Developers or the official forums of each brand usually have, after the release of the update, threads in which real users describe their experience, the new changes and possible problems detected.
- Specialized media and technology blogs: Portals such as Xataka, ComputerHoy, MovilZona or Androidayuda publish analyses of each new update with screenshots, explanations of the new features and general assessments.
- Analytics on YouTube and social media: You can also find explanatory videos, but for textual information, it is best to go to websites and forums.
Remember to check that the information corresponds exactly to your device model and the specific version you are installing, since two different phones may receive different functions even if they are both Android.
Precautions before installing an update on Android
Before you click the "Download and Install" button, it is advisable to take a series of precautions to avoid scares and ensure that everything goes well:
- Charge the battery to at least 75% or more.If possible, leave your phone plugged in during the process to avoid unexpected shutdowns.
- Make a backup of your important data: contacts, photos, files, chats, etc. Use cloud services like Google Photos, Google Drive, or your manufacturer's backup system.
- Connect to a reliable Wi-Fi networkUpdates are often cumbersome and consume a lot of data, and they download much faster and more securely over Wi-Fi.
- Make sure you have enough free spaceThe system will warn you if your storage is low, but it always helps to free up memory first.
- Check out other users' experiences on that specific version, looking for possible bugs, serious errors or incompatibilities before installing.
- Check the compatibility of your deviceSome older models may not receive all new features or may be out of support.
For especially older phones, it's a good idea to check reviews from other owners with the same version. And if you're a professional phone user, it's best to wait 24-48 hours to see if any serious errors are reported.
How to identify detailed new features of an update step by step
Since each manufacturer releases their updates differently, below are the most common ways to check the list of changes before installing:
- When you receive the update notification, click on Release Notes o What's new to see a summary. Motorola and Xiaomi, for example, offer a list of new features.
- In "pure" Android or Pixel versions, an information window usually appears with the main changes. For more details, you can search for the update on the official Google blog or the support forum.
- Visit your manufacturer's support website. Motorola, Xiaomi, Samsung, and other brands maintain version lists by model and region, with descriptions of the included improvements, sometimes with screenshots or tutorials.
- Enter your specific model and version number into Google along with "change log" or "Android update notes." Forums or articles will usually appear detailing the specific modifications.
- On forums like XDA or Reddit (although brand subforums can be helpful), you'll find threads with detailed analysis.
- Serious tech outlets often publish articles that review all the new features, changes, and potential issues with each major release. Look for reviews on specialized Spanish-language websites.
What kind of new features to expect depending on the type of update
Depending on whether it's a major Android update, a security patch, or a minor update, the extent of the new features can vary greatly:
- Major updates (Android 12, 13, 14, 15…): These typically include major design changes, new built-in features, and new security and privacy options. Examples include Material You, night mode, notification improvements, granular permissions, new customization options, widgets, and more.
- Security patches: These typically only fix vulnerabilities and bugs. The changelog will be brief and technical, but very important for preventing attacks. Although they don't usually include any new tools or updates for the user, they are essential.
- Google Play system updates: They may bring minor improvements to some essential components, app compatibility, or security patches.
- Manufacturer layer updates or system apps: You can review specific aspects such as visuals, performance, battery optimization, camera, etc., without changing the main version of Android.
In the update details, you'll find compatibility information, version number, release date, and a list of added or improved features. If it's a security patch, the date of the installed security level will also appear.
The Android update lifecycle
One aspect to keep in mind is that Each Android phone has its own update cycle. determined by the brand, model, age, and even the carrier. Newer and higher-end phones typically receive Android versions and security patches for years, while older models may soon lose support.
Google requires manufacturers to offer at least two years of system updates and three years of security patches, although many brands extend this period, especially for premium models. After this period, your device may stop receiving important updates and become vulnerable to security issues.
Security patches can continue to be released even when the operating system is no longer updated, and it's essential to install them as soon as they become available to keep your phone protected.
How to view your current Android version and update history
Knowing which Android version your phone has at any given time is essential to knowing if you have the latest updates and security patches. To check:
- Sign in Settings > Device Information > Android version or similar. On some models it appears as Over the phone o About of the phone.
- On that screen, you will see the android version installed, the security patch level (date), and sometimes the build number or version of the customization layer (MIUI, One UI, etc.).
- To check the update history, some manufacturers allow you to view the change logs or “changelogs” in System Settings or directly by accessing the installed updates.
Checking this data helps you compare the status of your phone with other models and determine if it should receive new improvements. It also helps you quickly identify the source of potential problems after an update.
Is it worth signing up for beta programs to get the latest updates first?
Some brands offer beta programs Users can try out new features and versions before anyone else, assuming some risk of bugs and stability issues. Participating in these programs can help you discover new features immediately, although they are only recommended for advanced or technical users.
If you want to be ahead of everyone else, you can find out if your manufacturer has a beta program for your model and sign up following their official instructions. Don't do this if you need your phone to always work perfectly, as you could encounter significant bugs.
How to check if your apps are up to date and what's new
In addition to the system, it is essential keep all your apps up to date To take advantage of new features and avoid vulnerabilities. To find out if updates are available for your apps and what specific changes they make, follow these steps:
- Open the application Google Play Store on your Android mobile.
- Click on your profile, then Manage apps and device.
- En Updates available You will see the pending apps. You can tap on each one to read the release notes or “News” that the developer has published.
- You can activate automatic updates to forget about them and let them settle in on their own.
Apps downloaded outside the Play Store, such as APK files from trusted sites, must be updated manually. It's essential to only download from trusted sources. If you have a Huawei phone, you'll need to use AppGallery, which has its own update menus.
What to do if you have problems after an update
Sometimes, after installing a new version of Android or an app, you may encounter errors, crashes, or incompatibilities. Here's what we recommend:
- Reboot the device: Many issues are resolved with a simple reboot after the update.
- Free up space: Often, lack of storage can cause errors.
- Clear the cache of problematic system or applications.
- Factory reset If the errors persist, restore your backup afterwards.
- Check out forums and official support to see if the error is widespread and look for patches or workarounds.
Remember that, as a general rule, It is not possible to return to a previous version of the system after installing an update, except in very specific cases and with advanced knowledge.
The main new features of the latest versions of Android (from Android 11 to Android 15)
Every year, Google introduces significant changes and improvements to Android. Here's a rundown of the most notable new features in recent versions:
- Android 11: Full 5G and foldable mobile integration, Nearby Sharing, NFC payments, privacy enhancements, tailored notifications.
- Android 12: Material You to customize your system with your favorite colors, new privacy center, quick access panel, and more security.
- Android 13: Advanced permissions (audio, photos, clipboard), per-app language, media enhancements, spatial audio, Bluetooth BLE Audio, more secure clipboard.
- Android 14: New lock screen styles and widgets, smart wallpapers, mobile webcam support, advanced data sharing controls, and improved accessibility.
- Android 15AI to lock your device in case of theft, a digital safe to protect sensitive apps, new customization options, and better integration with cameras and photos in low-light environments. Plus, security patches and various improvements.
System updates include new features and designs, while monthly security patches keep your device safe from emerging threats, even if they don't bring any dramatic visual changes.
Why are some features or enhancements only available on some devices?
Not all of the new features introduced by Google are available for all models equally. Support for each feature may depend on hardware, region, customization layer, and manufacturer policy.For example, Pixel devices typically receive all the new features first, while other brands may adapt and release improvements later or not even integrate them at all if the hardware doesn't support them.
Additionally, feature availability may vary by country, version, and carrier. If an important new feature doesn't appear on your phone after updating, check your model's forums or contact official support for the roadmap.
Tips to keep your phone always updated and secure
To get the most out of Android and ensure your device is protected:
- Turn on automatic updates of system and applications whenever possible.
- Manually check for updates periodically if your mobile does not download them automatically.
- Don't ignore update notifications, especially security patches, even if they do not bring any visible new features.
- Check out what's new and analyze potential issues before installing major updates, especially if you use your phone a lot for work.
- Get into the habit of making regular backups, so as not to lose data if something goes wrong.
- Do not install applications or updates from unverified sources.. Always use Play Store or your manufacturer's official store.
Keeping your phone updated is much more than just a matter of fashion. Installing new Android versions and security patches on time is key to maintaining your security, privacy, and best functionality.Knowing about new features in advance also allows you to fully enjoy each improvement and make better decisions for your device.
