OTA, actually, it refers to Over The Air, in other words, 'over the air'. This concept, in computing, refers to a method of distribution of new software, and specifically in Android it is used for updates of the system. But how does it really work? Although maybe you didn't know it, even though the OTA are the most common way to update a device, it is not the only possible way.
The old mobile phones that we used years ago did not receive updates. They came with factory software, and 'they died' with the same. However, little by little the updates software and firmware for mobile devices, and especially with the arrival of the first smart phones. And although one way of distribution has been the computer, applying the update by cable, OTA or Over The Air updates were quickly more successful, wirelessly and taking advantage of the mobile data connection or, above all, the Internet connections via WiFi.
OTA (Over The Air), the great evolution of software update distribution
OTA technology requires that they be Compatible with this function both the software and the hardware. Because not only the software in question is received, corresponding to a updateIt is also installed by taking advantage of the provider's wireless network. This whole process can be started with a 'call' to the system by the provider, or other servers, so that it is carried out automatically. But the most normal thing is that only the notification availability, so that it is the user himself who carries out the update manually and the use of the device is not paused inadvertently.
The OTA software update distribution system, obviously, is one of the great evolutions of the smart phones. Because it is yet another function that has given our mobile devices complete independence from the computer. Before, when USB connection was necessary, updates were not so easy to apply, nor could the device be inserted at any time.
By OTA updates new versions of the operating system are distributed within a firmware; and within this firmware, sometimes there are only changes at the level of security, performance or stability. This technology is also used, for example, for security patches of your operating system, which do not affect the devices to which it is applied at a functional level.
When do the updates arrive?
It will depend to a large degree on the phone manufacturers, which are the ones that launch said update for a batch of mobile devices. This is launched in the air, it will be received for download via WiFi connection, since they usually have a significant weight, which sometimes exceeds 100 megabytes, a large amount.
It will not work under the 4G connection, always designed for a connection that ensures speed and we can have it installed in a matter of minutes. It is time to mention that it corrects a lot of things, vulnerabilities and adds new features, depending to a large degree on each of the companies that work on it.
The update via OTA will be notified on the screen, you will see it in the notification panel, it is recommended to do this with enough battery on the phone. Above 40%, if this is not the case, it is more than vital that you plug the phone into the charger and wait for it to complete as is normal in this type of case.
The importance of updating the phone
OTA update is recommended due to multiple failures that the system has throughout its journey, which is sometimes a lot. It is usually updated almost always at dawn, so as not to greatly interrupt what you are doing with the mobile, it is a recommendation made by each manufacturer, it is also suggested that it be from 2 to 3 in the morning.
If you do not have the latest one and you have it pending, it will be a matter of going through the notification, if you do not have it at the top, you have to look for it in the phone settings. Remember not to do anything while it is downloading, since it requires the full potential of the phone, which is recommended to be 100%.
OTA is an update that is always carried out over WiFi, which is a manufacturer's recommendation, either by ADSL or cable, it is essential that you do it once it arrives, since it usually comes with a good number of changes. You can even take a look at the notes, which has them before updating.
Update via OTA on your phone
Once we get to the important point, the update requires a few steps, it will not update automatically, unless you do it once you arrive and click on it. If you haven't done it, the next thing to do is to do this manually, which in this case is the best, especially if you have it outdated as it usually happens in many cases, it is advisable to launch it and wait to install it.
The update is one of the things that you have to do manually, either by clicking on the notification area or by going to your phone's settings. We are going to explain in this case the option to do this by yourself and without depending on anyone in any of the cases, which is essential.
To update your device, do the following:
- Unlock your device and go to “Settings” from your terminal
- Once you reach the cogwheel, go to the end, specifically to "System and updates", click on it
- Look for the first one, “Software Update”, it will mark you with a "1", that you have a pending update
- Wait for it to load and it will mark both the weight and the number of the update, as well as other important details
- Hit “Download” and wait for it to complete
- It will restart and complete, which is essential for it to have it installed