Check the official settings, prepare power and backup, and verify the phone works afterward.
Why it matters: Updates help keep supported phones protected and working with current apps.
Written guidance reviewed: October 3, 2026 · Sources and equipment assumptions are below.
Take this guide to another device
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Use the phone’s own update screen
Prepare: Follow maker instructions: Check backup and charging · Open settings: Use the built-in updater: Avoid installers in messages · Confirm: Let installation finish: Check the version afterward. Menus vary by phone. Use the support page for your exact model.
Original Life’s Checklists diagram · example only
Understand the job before starting
An update notification and a successfully installed version are different states.
A common mistake to avoid
An update being downloaded does not mean installation is finished.
Words used in this guide
Software update
A newer release that can fix security or functional problems. Read the example
Backup
A recoverable copy of data made for loss or damage. Read the example
Use what you already have. Check each item when it is ready.
Before you begin
Use the phone’s Settings or manufacturer support, not an unexpected message or downloaded installer. For a school or work-managed phone, follow the organization’s process. Keep recovery information secure and never post it in notes.
0 of 4 steps checked0%
Guide progress and notes save on this browser; choose Save account copy above to carry them to another device with Plus. Downloads contain the complete blank checklist; print to include your current checks and notes.
Do it with me
Your step position saves on this browser. Use the picture when available, then check the written result.
STEP 1 OF 4
Check the supported update screen
Start here: Open the real software-update screen.
Example: Open the real software-update screen. Follow the written step.
Read-aloud is available in supported browsers; the written steps always remain available.
On iPhone, open Settings, General, then Software Update.
On Android, look in Settings for System or Software Update; wording varies by maker.
Read what is offered and check the manufacturer’s instructions if the phone is old or unsupported.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: The available update information comes from the phone’s official settings.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
STEP 1 OF 4
Check the supported update screen
Start here: Open the real software-update screen.
Example: Open the real software-update screen. Follow the written step.
On iPhone, open Settings, General, then Software Update.
On Android, look in Settings for System or Software Update; wording varies by maker.
Read what is offered and check the manufacturer’s instructions if the phone is old or unsupported.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: The available update information comes from the phone’s official settings.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
STEP 2 OF 4
Prepare power and backup
Start here: Prepare backup, power and trusted Wi-Fi.
Example: Prepare backup, power and trusted Wi-Fi. Follow the written step.
Check the date of your latest usable backup and complete one if needed.
Connect reliable power and trusted Wi-Fi, and leave enough free space as the update screen requires.
Choose a time when you can manage a restart without missing an urgent task.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: A recent backup, power, connection, and suitable update time are ready.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
STEP 3 OF 4
Install through the official controls
Start here: Install through genuine device controls.
Example: Install through genuine device controls. Follow the written step.
Follow the on-screen download and installation prompts.
Keep the phone powered and avoid interrupting the process.
Enter an unlock code only on the device’s trusted prompt; do not send it to someone claiming to help remotely.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: The official installation finishes and the phone returns to its normal unlock screen.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
STEP 4 OF 4
Verify and plan future updates
Start here: Verify the update and basic functions.
Example: Verify the update and basic functions. Follow the written step.
Reopen the update screen to check the installed version and remaining offers.
Test calls, messages, and an important app.
Review automatic-update settings using the manufacturer’s guidance, then keep a note of any continuing support limitation.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: The update status and basic phone functions have been checked.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
Pictures for this guide
Picture 1 of 4 · Check the supported update screen
Check and install your phone’s system update, step 1: Official Settings screen and Maker update instructions. Open the real software-update screen. Diagram is generic; follow the written directions and your own equipment instructions.
For: Check the supported update screen
Illustrations show examples of the actions above. Follow your equipment’s instructions.
Notes about these pictures
On iPhone, open Settings, General, then Software Update. On Android, look in Settings for System or Software Update; wording varies by maker. Read what is offered and check the manufacturer’s instructions if the phone is old or unsupported.
Use the phone’s Settings or manufacturer support, not an unexpected message or downloaded installer. For a school or work-managed phone, follow the organization’s process. Keep recovery information secure and never post it in notes.
Was this step clear?
Flag “Check the supported update screen” for review. We save the guide and step identifiers with your account to limit duplicates, not your private notes.
Link details checked 2026-10-03. Video availability and equipment menus can change.
These YouTube videos belong to their respective creators. Life’s Checklists does not own them and is not affiliated with the creators. Links open on YouTube, where the videos are available independently of our membership.
How to use the video with this guide
Read “Before you begin” first. Watch the relevant part, pause, then return to the written step and its completion check. Use captions and playback speed if they help. A demonstration may cover only part of the task or show different equipment.
Your model’s instructions and current official guidance take priority. For urgent problems, follow the stop instructions without waiting to watch a video.
For this guide, the final result is: The update status and basic phone functions have been checked.
A concrete way to approach this task
Use a quiet evening with charging and Wi-Fi available. A message demanding an “urgent update” is not the place to start.
What if I cannot complete a step?
If installation fails, keep the error message and use the manufacturer’s matching support steps. Do not try a random installer from search results.
Identify the exact step: “Check the supported update screen.” Record what you tried, what happened, and which item or model you used. Ask for help with that specific problem rather than repeating an unsafe or unsuccessful action.
Use the phone’s Settings or manufacturer support, not an unexpected message or downloaded installer. For a school or work-managed phone, follow the organization’s process. Keep recovery information secure and never post it in notes.
Connect this skill to everyday life
Choose one important account and verify its recovery options through the genuine service. Organize where your recovery information is stored securely.
A familiar logo or display name does not verify a sender. Account recovery codes and normal passwords have different purposes.
