If you keep getting error messages when trying to update your phone, there are a few potential causes and solutions to try. Getting repeated error messages can be frustrating, but troubleshooting the different update issues step-by-step can help identify and resolve the problem.
Common Causes of Update Errors
Here are some of the most common reasons you may see errors when trying to update your phone:
- Insufficient storage space – Updating your phone’s operating system and apps takes up storage, so not having enough free space can lead to errors. Try deleting unused apps, photos, videos and files to free up storage.
- Connectivity issues – A weak internet connection, WiFi dropout or mobile data disruption during an update can cause it to fail partway through. Make sure you’re on a stable, strong internet or data connection when updating.
- Outdated or corrupt software – Bugs, glitches or corrupt files in your current version of the phone’s software can prevent the new update version from properly installing. You may need to factory reset your phone first.
- Incompatible apps – Some apps may not be fully compatible with the latest software update version. Disable or uninstall apps that are known to cause issues with updates.
- Low battery – Your phone battery needs to be charged to a certain level (usually above 30%) for installation of OTA (over-the-air) updates to work. Charge your phone before trying to update.
- Cached update data – Corrupt temporary cached data from a previously failed update can sometimes cause error messages to persist. Clearing the cache partition can help fix this.
Top Troubleshooting Steps
Try these troubleshooting tips when facing repeated update errors on your phone:
- Check storage space – Go to Settings > Storage to see how much internal storage space is free on your phone. If it’s under 10-20% free, delete unused apps, videos, music and files.
- Close all open apps – Update installations run smoother when no other apps are running in the background. Completely close out of all apps before updating.
- Check for app issues – See if any apps are known to be incompatible with the OS update you want to install. Uninstall or disable them.
- Restart and reconnect – Shut down your phone, wait 30 seconds, power back on and reconnect to WiFi or mobile data. Then try updating again.
- Factory reset – Back up your data and then reset your phone to factory default settings. This wipes corrupt software issues and gives you a clean slate.
- Clear partition cache – On Android phones, boot into recovery mode and perform a partition cache clear to delete corrupt cached update data.
- Update via computer – Connect your phone to a computer and try updating it directly through iTunes (iPhone) or other desktop software.
- Contact support – If all else fails, reach out to the device manufacturer’s tech support for further help identifying and troubleshooting the update error.
Detailed Troubleshooting Steps
For each of these common update error situations, here are some more detailed troubleshooting steps you can take:
If you get “Insufficient Storage Available” error
- Open Settings > Storage to see used and available space
- Manually delete unused apps, large video/music files
- Or use storage cleaner apps to identify and delete junk files
- Offload unused apps (keeps them but deletes local files to free space)
- Move photos/videos to cloud storage like Google Photos to free up space
- Uninstall and reinstall apps taking up large amounts of space
- Delete and re-download streaming service apps like Netflix, Spotify etc.
If you get disconnected from internet/WiFi error
- Check internet connectivity and turn airplane mode off
- Reconnect to WiFi network or mobile data
- Try updating close to your router or in area with strong signal
- Disable battery saver/power saving mode which can cause disconnects
- Forget the WiFi network and reconnect to refresh IP address
- Reset router if multiple devices are impacted and can’t connect
If you get an app compatibility error
- Check update release notes for known app issues
- Update or uninstall apps flagged as incompatible
- Disable problematic apps before updating phone
- Delete and reinstall apps fresh after the update
- Contact app developer about compatibility
What To Do If Update Fails Repeatedly
If you continue getting update errors even after multiple troubleshooting attempts, here are some other steps to try:
- Factory reset your phone – This will wipe the phone and address any underlying software corruption issues.
- Clear cache partition – Boot into recovery mode and wipe cached data to fix stuck updates.
- Try updating via computer – Use a computer to install the latest OS update via USB.
- Call device manufacturer support – Contact tech support from your phone’s brand for personalized help.
- Take phone to manufacturer store – Techs at an official store can diagnose and perform needed software fixes.
- Back up data and get phone replaced – If all else fails, backup your data and get the phone exchanged if under warranty.
How To Prevent Update Errors
To help avoid update errors in the first place:
- Maintain sufficient storage space – Keep at least 20% storage free at all times.
- Regularly delete unused apps and files – Prevent storage clogs that lead to errors.
- Close all apps before updating – Don’t have any apps running in the background.
- Connect to stable WiFi connection – Use strong WiFi or mobile data when downloading updates.
- Keep phone charged over 30% when updating – Low battery can interrupt an update.
- Turn off auto updates – Manage and install updates manually for more control.
- Write down update issues – Note any error codes or messages to more easily troubleshoot.
Update Frequency Recommendations
How often should you update your phone’s OS and apps? Here are some best practices:
| Update Type | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Every 1-2 major releases |
| Security patches | As soon as available |
| Apps (general) | Every 2-4 weeks |
| Apps (critical) | As soon as available |
Prioritize critical security and OS patches as soon as they become available. For general apps, updating every few weeks is fine in most cases to allow developers to fix bugs and smooth out issues in newer versions.
When To Avoid Updating Your Phone
Here are a few instances when you may want to hold off on updating your phone right away:
- If you have an important event soon – Wait until afterwards to prevent any update disruptions.
- If you’re traveling/on vacation – Updating away from home can be problematic if issues arise.
- If a major app compatibility concern emerges – Delay updating until developers address it.
- If your phone is working perfectly – “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” No need to update immediately.
- If you don’t have time to troubleshoot – Updating requires time to resolve potential issues.
Otherwise, keeping your phone up-to-date provides optimal performance, features and security protections.
Conclusion
Repeated update errors can quickly go from frustrating to infuriating. However, methodically trying different troubleshooting techniques can help identify and resolve the underlying issue. Check available storage space, disconnect/reconnect, delete problematic apps, wipe cached data and even factory reset your phone if necessary. Prevent future update snags by maintaining adequate storage, closing apps before updating, using stable connections and disabling auto updates. Keep track of any error details to more easily diagnose problems. With persistence and patience, you can conquer update errors and keep your phone’s OS and apps running their best.