The quickest way to update your tablet
Most tablets update through the Settings app. Open Settings, look for "System," "About," or "Device," then find "System Update" or "Software Update." Tap it, and your tablet will check for new versions. If one is available, you'll see a button to read and install. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the update size and your internet speed.
Before you start, plug your tablet into power and connect to Wi-Fi. Updates use a lot of battery and data, and a dropped connection mid-update can cause problems. Don't turn off your tablet while it's installing — let it finish completely, even if the screen goes black for a minute.
If you don't see an update available, your tablet may already be on the latest version. Check again in a few days; updates roll out gradually, so your device might not receive it when ready.
Key Takeaways
- Go to Settings, find System or Device, then tap System Update or Software Update to check for and install new versions.
- Plug your tablet into power and use Wi-Fi before starting an update, because the process requires stable electricity and internet.
- Let the update finish completely without interruption, even if the screen appears frozen or goes dark for a few minutes.
- If no update appears, your tablet may already be current, or the update may not have rolled out to your device yet.
- Some tablets allow you to schedule updates for a specific time so the installation doesn't interrupt your work.
Where to find the update on iPad
On an iPad, go to Settings, then tap "General." Scroll down and select "Software Update." If an update is available, you'll see the version number and file size. Tap "read and Install" to begin.
iPads running iPadOS 13 or later can also update overnight if you turn on automatic updates. Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates, then toggle on "read iOS Updates" and "Install System Data Files." Your iPad will read and install updates when plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi overnight.
Where to find the update on Android tablets
Android tablets vary by manufacturer, but the path is usually Settings > System > System Update or Settings > About Device > System Update. Samsung tablets use "Settings > About Phone > Software Update." Google Pixel Tablets use "Settings > System > System Update."
If you can't find the option, search "system update" in your tablet's Settings search bar. Android updates often come from your tablet's manufacturer, not Google directly, so timing varies widely. A Samsung tablet may receive an update weeks or months after Google releases it.
What happens during an update
When you tap install, your tablet downloads the update file, which can range from 500 MB to several gigabytes depending on the version. During read, you can usually keep using your tablet, though it may run slower. Once the read finishes, your tablet will ask you to restart. After restart, the installation begins, and your screen may show a progress bar or logo for several minutes.
Do not turn off your tablet, close the lid, or disconnect power during installation. If the update is interrupted, your tablet may fail to start or get stuck in a boot loop, which requires a factory reset to fix.
Why your tablet might not show an update
Updates roll out in waves, so even if a new version exists, your tablet may not receive it for days or weeks. This is intentional — manufacturers stagger releases to catch problems early before pushing to all devices.
Your tablet also won't show an update if it's already running the latest version. Check the current version number in Settings > About to confirm. If your tablet is several years old, it may have reached end-of-life and no longer receive updates. Apple typically supports iPads for 5 to 7 years; Android tablet support varies by manufacturer but is often shorter.
Storage space can also block updates. If your tablet has less than 2 to 3 GB free, delete photos, videos, or apps to make room, then check for updates again.
Troubleshooting a stuck or failed update
If your tablet gets stuck on a loading screen or shows an error during update, try a force restart. On iPad, press and hold the top button and volume down button together for 10 seconds, then slide to power off. Wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on. On Android, the method varies — most tablets have a power button and volume button combination; check your manual or search your model number plus "force restart."
If the update fails after a force restart, try updating again over Wi-Fi. If it fails a second time, connect to a computer and use your tablet's manufacturer software (Apple Configurator for iPad, or Samsung SmartSwitch for Samsung tablets) to update through a wired connection. This bypasses Wi-Fi and often succeeds where wireless updates fail.
Preparing your tablet before a major update
Before installing a large update, back up your data. iPad users can back up to iCloud by going to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup, then tapping "Back Up Now." Android users can back up to Google Drive through Settings > System > Backup, or use their manufacturer's cloud service (Samsung Cloud, for example).
Back up before updating because major version changes occasionally cause problems that require a factory reset. A backup means you won't lose photos, contacts, or app data if something goes wrong. The backup process takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on how much data you have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my tablet while it's updating?
During read, yes — your tablet works normally, though it may be slower. Once installation begins after restart, no — your tablet will show a progress screen and won't respond to taps. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
What if I accidentally turn off my tablet during an update?
Your tablet may fail to start or get stuck on a boot screen. Try a force restart by holding the power and volume buttons together for 10 seconds. If that doesn't work, you may need to factory reset using your computer and your tablet's manufacturer software.
Do I have to update my tablet?
No, but older versions eventually stop receiving security patches, which leaves your tablet vulnerable to hackers. Updates also fix bugs and add features. Most people should update within a few weeks of release, but you can delay if an update causes problems for your apps.
Why is my tablet so slow after updating?
New updates sometimes use more processing power or storage space. Restart your tablet, delete unused apps, and clear the cache through Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Storage > Clear Cache. If slowness persists, check how much storage is free — if less than 10 percent, delete photos or videos.
Can I go back to an older version if I don't like the new update?
On iPad, no — Apple doesn't allow downgrading. On Android, it depends on your manufacturer; most don't support downgrading either. If an update breaks an app you need, contact the app maker to report the problem, or look for an alternative app that works with the new version.