Check for updates in your tablet's settings

Most tablets check for updates automatically, but you can also look for them yourself. Open your tablet's Settings app — usually a gear icon on your home screen or in your app drawer. The exact path depends on whether you have an iPad or an Android tablet, but both let you see what version you're running and whether a newer one is waiting.

On an iPad, go to Settings, then tap General, then Software Update. You'll see your current version number and whether an update is available. On an Android tablet, go to Settings, scroll down to About Tablet (or Device), then tap System Update or Software Update. The wording varies by manufacturer — Samsung calls it Software Update, while other brands may say System Update.

If an update is available, you'll see a button to read and install it. If nothing appears, your tablet is already on the latest version for your device.

Key Takeaways

  • Updates are found in Settings under General (iPad) or About Tablet (Android), and you can check anytime without waiting for automatic notifications.
  • Plug your tablet into power and connect to Wi-Fi before starting an update, because the process can take 15 minutes to an hour and drains battery quickly.
  • Your tablet will restart during the update, so close any open apps and save your work before you begin.
  • If an update fails or gets stuck, force restart your tablet by holding the power button for 10 seconds, then try again.

Prepare your tablet before updating

Before you tap the update button, do three things: plug your tablet into a charger, connect to Wi-Fi, and close all open apps. Updates use a lot of battery — even a tablet at 80 percent can run out of power partway through. A Wi-Fi connection is required because updates are large files, usually 500 megabytes to several gigabytes depending on the version jump.

Close any apps you're using, including email, browsers, and games. The update process will restart your tablet, and having apps open can sometimes cause the restart to fail. If you have unsaved work in a document or note, save it first.

Start the update and let it finish

Once you've plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi, go back to the update screen and tap read and Install (iPad) or Install Now (Android). Your tablet will begin downloading the update file. This step usually takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on your Wi-Fi speed and the size of the update.

After the read finishes, your tablet will ask whether you want to install now or later. Choose Install Now unless you're in the middle of something critical. The installation itself takes 10 to 30 minutes, and your tablet will restart one or more times during this process. You'll see a progress bar or Apple logo (on iPad) or Android logo (on Android) while the update installs. Do not unplug your tablet or turn it off during this time.

When the update is complete, your tablet will restart and show your home screen. You may be asked to sign in again or review new features. This is normal.

What to do if the update gets stuck or fails

If your tablet is stuck on a loading screen for more than 30 minutes, or if you see an error message, try a force restart. The method depends on your device. On an iPad, press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the power button until you see the power-off slider. Drag the slider to turn it off, wait 10 seconds, then press the power button again to turn it back on.

On most Android tablets, press and hold the power button for 10 to 15 seconds until the screen goes black and the device vibrates. Release the button and wait for the tablet to restart. Once it's back on, go to Settings and try the update again.

If the update fails a second time, try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network if possible, or wait a few hours and try again. Sometimes the update servers are temporarily busy. If the problem continues, contact the tablet manufacturer's support line — they can walk you through troubleshooting specific to your model.

Understand what happens after an update

After a successful update, your tablet will work the same way it did before, but with security fixes and sometimes new features. You won't lose any of your photos, documents, apps, or settings — updates preserve everything on your device. However, the first time you use your tablet after an update, it may run a bit slower than usual as it finishes organizing files in the background. This usually clears up within an hour.

Some updates add visible changes, like new icons or menu layouts. Others are mostly invisible security patches that protect your tablet from hackers. Either way, keeping your tablet updated is important because older versions can become vulnerable to security problems.

Turn on automatic updates so you don't have to check manually

If you want your tablet to update without you having to remember to check, you can turn on automatic updates. On an iPad, go to Settings, then General, then Software Update, then Automatic Updates. Turn on Install iOS Updates. Your tablet will read and install updates overnight when plugged in and on Wi-Fi.

On Android, the process varies by manufacturer. Most Android tablets have an option in Settings under System or About Tablet to enable automatic system updates. Some manufacturers, like Samsung, let you choose whether updates install automatically or just read and wait for your approval. Check your tablet's Settings app under System or Device to find the exact option.

Automatic updates are convenient because you don't have to think about them, but they can sometimes restart your tablet at an inconvenient time. If that's a problem, you can turn off automatic updates and check manually once a month instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my tablet while it's updating?

No. Once the installation begins, your tablet will restart and be unavailable until the update finishes. The entire process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes from start to finish. Plan to set your tablet aside during this time.

Will updating delete my photos and files?

No. Updates preserve all your photos, documents, apps, and settings. Nothing is deleted or lost during an update.

What if I don't want to update?

You can delay updates, but security updates especially are important because they fix vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Older tablets eventually stop receiving updates altogether, which is one reason to consider replacing a very old device.

Why does my tablet need Wi-Fi to update?

Updates are large files — often 1 to 3 gigabytes — and Wi-Fi is much faster and more reliable than cellular data. Using cellular data could be slow, expensive, or interrupted. Wi-Fi is required for this reason.

How often should I update my tablet?

Check for updates once a month. Most tablets receive updates every few weeks to a few months, depending on the manufacturer. Security updates are more frequent than feature updates, and both should be installed when they appear.