You get two types of people when it comes to notifications: those who clear them immediately and those who, at any given time, have a handful of unread WhatsApps, a bunch of missed calls, and 10 unread emails they’ll get to “just now”. While unread messages and ignored missed calls might cost you an invitation to your ghosted friend’s braai, failing to keep your mobile operating system updated can be risky.
Why keep your mobile operating system updated?
The operating system is what makes your device work. It allows your device to run apps, connect to networks, and perform other basic functions. Every so often, the manufacturers will release Android and iOS updates. Reasons could be:
- New features: For example, Android 16 introduced new security features, enhanced usability, and tools for multitasking and accessibility. iOS 26 comes with a completely new look and feel, along with a heap of new functions.
- Bug fixes: Software “bugs” are glitches or errors that cause your device not to work properly. They can range from minor annoyances, like lagging, to bigger issues like draining your battery. Ironically, new updates (especially more feature-focused ones) can sometimes introduce glitches. In such cases, a follow-up will often be hot on its heels to fix them.
- Security patches: Security is one of the most important reasons to keep your mobile operating system updated. Cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to get into devices. When manufacturers discover a security vulnerability, they’ll roll out a patch as an update, making your device less vulnerable to attacks.
How to Update Your Mobile Operating System
Having automatic updates enabled makes it a lot easier to keep your mobile operating system updated. But to make sure you’re not missing an update, use these tips:
- Check for updates: You should receive a notification in your Settings when an operating system update becomes available, but you can also check for it yourself.
- Enable automatic updates: If you’ve disabled this feature, your device won’t update the operating system automatically, which means you’ll have to keep an eye out for it and install it yourself.
- Check your model: Older devices eventually reach a point where they’re regarded as obsolete and no longer support the latest updates. If the developer no longer supports your device, it may be time to consider an upgrade.
- Clear space: Your device will need space to install the operating system update – if you’re in the red, you’ll need to back up to the cloud or get more drastic and go on a deleting spree.
- Check connection requirements: It may be necessary to have your device plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi before it will update.
- Time it: Operating system updates can take a long time, and during that time, your device is out of action. So, don’t start updating when you urgently need to use your device.
- Many devices suggest doing the update overnight, so you have no downtime, and you get to wake up to a brand-new operating system in the morning.
- Some devices, you may need to do a manual restart. If that’s yours, time it for when you’re awake but not using your device.
It's ultimately your choice to update or not. If you don’t need the latest features, at least keep your mobile operating system updated for security. Software updates can be huge and take lots of data. Ensure you have a decent home internet connection with one of these options from Vodacom.
