Check Your Current Operating System and Available Updates

Before you start, find out what version of the operating system your tablet is running and whether an update is waiting for you. The steps differ depending on whether you have an iPad (which runs iPadOS) or an Android tablet.

For an iPad, go to Settings, then tap General, then Software Update. The screen will show your current version and tell you whether a newer one is available. For an Android tablet, go to Settings, scroll down and tap About tablet (the exact name varies by brand), then look for System update or Software update. If an update is ready, you will see a button to read and install it.

Write down your current version number before you begin. This helps you confirm the update worked and gives you information to share if something goes wrong.

Key Takeaways

  • Check your current operating system version in Settings before starting, so you know whether an update is actually available.
  • Plug your tablet into power and connect to Wi-Fi before you begin the update, because the process uses a lot of battery and data.
  • The update will restart your tablet one or more times, so close all open apps and save any work before you tap the install button.
  • Updates usually take 15 to 45 minutes depending on the file size and your internet speed, so plan for uninterrupted time.
  • If the update fails or your tablet gets stuck, force it to restart by holding the power button for 10 seconds, then try again.

Prepare Your Tablet Before You Start

Updates require stable power and a strong internet connection. Plug your tablet into a charger and leave it plugged in for the entire process. If the battery drains during an update, your tablet may not finish the installation correctly and could become unusable.

Connect to Wi-Fi instead of mobile data. Updates are large files—often 500 megabytes to several gigabytes—and downloading over mobile data can be slow and may use up your monthly allowance. Make sure you are in a location where your Wi-Fi signal is strong.

Close all open apps and save any work you have in progress. The tablet will restart during the update, and unsaved work will be lost. Check whether you have any ongoing downloads or uploads, and wait for them to finish.

read and Install the Update on iPad

Open Settings and tap General, then Software Update. If an update is available, you will see a description of what is new and how much space it requires. Tap read and Install.

Your iPad will read the update file, which may take several minutes depending on file size and Wi-Fi speed. Once the read finishes, you will see a prompt asking whether you want to install now or later. Tap Install Now. Your iPad will restart, and you will see a progress bar on the screen. Do not unplug the tablet or turn it off during this time.

The installation usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your iPad may restart more than once. When the process is complete, you will see your home screen again, and the version number in Settings will have changed.

read and Install the Update on Android Tablets

Open Settings and scroll down to find About tablet or Device information. Tap it, then look for System update, Software update, or Check for updates. The exact wording depends on your tablet's brand and Android version.

If an update is available, tap the button to read it. The tablet will read the file in the background, which takes a few minutes to several minutes depending on size. Once the read finishes, you will see a prompt to install. Tap Install or Restart and install. Your tablet will restart and show a progress screen while the update installs.

Do not touch the tablet or turn it off while the installation is running. This process usually takes 20 to 45 minutes. When it is complete, your tablet will restart and return to the home screen. Go back to Settings and check the version number to confirm the update finished.

What to Do If the Update Fails or Gets Stuck

If your tablet freezes during the update or the progress bar stops moving for more than 10 minutes, force it to restart. Hold down the power button for 10 seconds until the screen goes black and the tablet vibrates or shows a restart prompt. Release the button and let the tablet restart on its own.

Once it restarts, go back to Settings and check the version number. If the update did not complete, you will still be on the old version. Try the update again, making sure you are plugged into power and connected to Wi-Fi. If the update fails a second time, restart the tablet again and wait at least 30 minutes before trying a third time—sometimes the tablet needs time to recover.

If the update continues to fail after three attempts, or if your tablet will not turn on after a restart, the problem may require a factory reset or professional service. Write down the exact error message you see, if any, and contact the tablet manufacturer's support line with that information.

Verify the Update Completed Successfully

After your tablet restarts and returns to the home screen, open Settings and check the version number again. It should be different from the number you wrote down before you started. If the version number has changed, the update is complete.

You may notice that some apps look slightly different or that settings have moved to new locations. This is normal after a major update. Your apps will update themselves over the next few days as developers release versions compatible with the new operating system.

If you see a notification asking you to restart your tablet again, tap it and let the tablet restart. Some updates require multiple restarts to finish all the changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my tablet while the update is installing?

No. Once you tap the button to install, your tablet will restart and you will not be able to use it until the installation finishes. The entire process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes. Plan for time when you do not need the tablet.

What happens to my files and photos when I update?

Your files, photos, and apps stay on your tablet. An update changes the operating system but does not erase your data. However, it is always a good idea to back up your tablet before any major change—use iCloud for iPad or Google Drive for Android.

Do I have to update my tablet?

Updates are not required, but they add security fixes and new features. Older tablets may not receive updates at all if the manufacturer has stopped supporting them. Check your tablet's age and model to see how long the manufacturer typically provides updates.

Why does my tablet say there is not enough storage for the update?

Updates need temporary space to read and install. If your tablet is almost full, delete photos, videos, or apps you no longer use, then try again. You need at least 2 to 3 gigabytes of free space for most updates.

Can I cancel an update after it starts installing?

Once the installation begins and your tablet restarts, you cannot cancel it safely. Let it finish. If you turn off the tablet during installation, it may not restart properly. If the installation seems stuck, wait at least 10 minutes before forcing a restart.