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Content:Many smartphone users do not know why to update Android. Most people think that after purchasing it is better to leave the version of the OS that was originally available.
But if you want to use new programs (say, for), and also avoid software failures, then you cannot avoid updating.
Main reasons to update Android
The main factors which OS should be updated:- After installing the new version, the device starts working several times faster, without changing elements inside the device.
- Improving the functionality of the system.
- Errors that appeared in the old version of the OS will disappear.
- New versions of the software run games and applications that did not run on the previous software.
- After updating the OS, you will feel more comfortable working with your device.
Updates for Android there are two types :
- Update
.
Such updates weigh about 500 MB and are freely available on the Internet. When downloading, make sure you have a stable network connection.
It is better to use wired Internet or Wi-Fi when downloading, since with gprs Internet there may be interruptions in the network, which in the future will lead to repeated downloading.
- Micro
.
Such updates weigh about 50 MB, they are aimed at eliminating errors in applications. Most often they are invisible to the user.
Such updates are aimed at changing certain programs, and not at updating the OS as a whole.
Pros and cons of updating Android
If you are in doubt about whether you need to update Android on your gadget, you should know that these actions will lead to the improvement of your device, just like programs for, for example.
If you are tired of system glitches on your phone, then you should update your software version. This is the main advantage of the update.
Cons of updates:
- Possible disappearance of some desktop icons.
- Installing new programs, which are then difficult or not removed at all. This is due to the introduction of certain adjustments by the developers.
- At home, the firmware often fails, and if your device is under warranty, you may lose it.
There is no need to be afraid of this and put it off “for later.” But at the same time, if you don’t want to update on principle, you don’t have to do this and use the old version of the OS.
TV software developers often delight users with the opportunity, or rather, the need, to update their Smart TV. If you do not do this, the device will begin to behave inappropriately, cause system failures, and access to the Internet will deteriorate. In general, all the advantages that distinguished Samsung Smart TV from a device without any additional functionality will practically disappear.
From all this, only one conclusion can be drawn - Smart needs to be updated. But many ordinary users do not quite understand how exactly this is done. All that is required is a little free time, a USB flash drive that will work on a Samsung TV, or access to the Internet from the TV to download programs directly to the device, without the help of additional accessories. But in any case, updates are good because they allow you to correct errors that were made in previous versions, thereby making the device more reliable.
Standby update function
Every experienced user knows that you can update software for a Samsung TV automatically using certain functions. It is difficult to say what comes of this. The good news is that the owner does not have to wonder when the TV firmware will be updated, because everything happens automatically.
But this function also has many disadvantages, which is why professionals do not recommend using it often. For example, this applies to setting incorrect parameters in the temporary search for updates on Samsung TV servers or on the official website. If these are not found, you can use a manual search, which is much more convenient, since it is used only when there is a real need for it.
So, what are the features of this function for Samsung Smart TV:
Due to the fact that the user is not able to control every step of installing updates, they may not be installed correctly, resulting in various problems, malfunctioning of sites and other troubles. To correct such consequences, it sometimes comes down to replacing the motherboard;
Since software updates occur periodically, the TV may find a program in the middle of the night or early in the morning. Naturally, a TV that turns on spontaneously will do little to please the household;
A Samsung TV does not always have a stable Internet connection, so if an update starts or the file, for example, turns out to be too large, the Samsung TV will not be able to load it and will freeze. This is not the most pleasant situation, since there is a high probability that the device will need to be repaired;
The TV may lose connection to Wi-Fi during the update, or the TV may have a timer that will turn off the device at a certain hour. If this happens, even if the firmware is almost installed, then most likely it will not turn on.
If the TV does not turn on after the update, it means that the installation of the program was unsuccessful. It is not recommended to persistently try to do something on your own, as the situation can only worsen.
Firmware update via USB
The latest firmware versions first appear on Samsung servers, and only after that they are posted on the website. Precisely because, in order to stay up to date with events, before you update the software, take it from the website, look at the servers - perhaps the firmware that is available is completely outdated.
You can even log in from your phone, as long as you have good internet. But it’s better to download to a computer where you can connect a flash drive, which will connect to the TV via USB. So, searching for firmware is very simple:
To do this, you need to go to the website and enter the name of the model in the special search bar indicated at the top of the page. These symbols are usually indicated on the back of the TV;
Next, a special page will open with a manual and the current software version. To find out, click on the “Built-in Software” line, and you will immediately see a technical description of the model, including what software is on the TV;
You need to find and download the new software, but select the USB download type. In addition, it is important to make sure that the software version is really new, and not download and install old or the same firmware;
It is important to pay attention to the presence of the Russian language in the new software, because not everyone will be comfortable working in English or in a multilingual version;
The file must be uploaded to a blank USB drive, which must be formatted before the material can be transferred to it. If you format it afterwards, all the information on the flash drive will be destroyed, and when you turn on the TV, it will not find the materials to begin the update process.
When unpacking is finished, you need to move the flash drive from the computer to the TV and start the update. This is done like this: “Menu”, “Support”, “Software Update”, item “USB Software”, “Ok” or “Update Now”.
For most Android device owners, the release of a new OS version is a long-awaited event. There is no point in parting with your favorite old phone and buying a new, more functional one if you can “refresh” it with new firmware. Therefore, for this category of users it is important to know how to update Android on your phone quickly and correctly.
This question becomes especially relevant in view of the release of the new Android 8.0, called Oreo. Like previous versions, Oreo opens up a lot of possibilities for gadget owners.
Features of the new OS based on Android 8.0
Even in previous versions, you could experience all the benefits of using the “picture-in-picture” function. But in the latest Android, programmers have improved it: now the user can, while working with the main program, in parallel, not only observe what is happening with the second (for example, correspond with friends in the messenger and watch videos at the same time). There is no need to go to the second window to stop or continue watching the video: when you hover over one of the windows, control buttons appear.
Managing notifications has become much easier. If in the previous version, to block or enable notifications, one had to go to settings, now the user saves time. To block unnecessary messages, just double-click on it and click on the corresponding switch.
Starting with firmware 6.0, when the application was first launched, the system asked the user for permission to access data (contacts, photos, etc.). In the latest OS, the developers paid even more attention to security. Now it is possible to indicate sources from which downloading programs is prohibited.
Which smartphones and tablets will be updated to Android 8.0
Unfortunately, not all gadgets running Google's OS will be able to receive the update to Oreo. Basically, the new firmware will be available for flagship smartphones, tablets and some models in the mid-price segment of almost all well-known brands.
You can update the Android version to 8.0 on the following models of smartphones and tablets:
- Google: Nexus and Pixel;
- Samsung: Galaxy S8, S8+, S7, S7 edge, A and J series smartphones 2017, Tab S3 tablet;
- Sony: XA1, XA1 Ultra, Xperia X, XZ, X Performance;
- Xiaomi: Mi 5S, Mi 5S Plus, Note 2, Mi 6, Mi 6 Plus;
- LG: V10, V20, G6, G5, Q6;
- HTC: U11, U Play, Desire 10 Pro, HTC 10, 10 Evo, U Ultra;
- Nokia: Nokia 3, 5, 6 and 8;
- Motorola: Z Droid, Z Force Droid, Moto G4, G5, Z, X4, G5S;
- OnePlus: models 5, 3, 3T.
The list of devices that will be updated to Oreo may change. To clarify information on the desired device model, you need to go to the manufacturer’s website or contact the support service of an official representative.
How to update Android on your phone over the air
You can update to the latest version in the following ways: make an update using a PC or start the process of changing the firmware on the phone itself.
The last method is the easiest, since the user is not required to install special software or use additional devices.
By default, the phone is configured to receive notifications when a new version of Android is available. When the latest OS version appears, a corresponding message will appear on the gadget screen.
If the owner of the gadget has disabled this function previously, then, accordingly, he will not be notified of the opportunity to download new software.
How to download and install the latest Android, for example from 5.1 to 6.0, without connecting to a computer:
After the software is downloaded, you must either install it or postpone the installation.
How to update Android on your phone manually
Gadget owners have the opportunity to change the firmware, for example to 7.0, using special utilities (Odin, KDZ Updater), even despite the lack of up-to-date software from the manufacturer.
When using these utilities, you must act strictly according to the instructions, otherwise your phone may malfunction.
In addition to the programs, you need to download the driver and official firmware to the PC (firmware resolution - tar or tar.md5).
Most often, users resort to this method of changing Android when they want to return the previous version (the new firmware with its changes does not always meet their expectations).
Before connecting the smartphone to the computer, you must start it in Download Mode. To do this, you need to hold down 2 or 3 buttons on your phone (depending on the brand).
For example, in order to enter the Download Mode menu on a Samsung phone, you should hold down the power, volume down and home buttons.
If the user has done everything correctly, the following image will appear on the screen:
The last step is to press the volume up button. As a result, the following will appear on the phone:
Installing a new version of Android using the Odin application:
If the folder with the firmware contains not one, but three files at once, then they should be correctly distributed in the “Files" area:
- add the file whose name contains “CODE” to the “PDA” section;
- add the file whose name contains the word “MODEM” to the “PHONE” section;
- in the “CSC” section we indicate the path to the file whose name contains the word “CSC”.
How to update Android on your phone via computer
You can change Android via a computer using a special program from the manufacturer.
There are two applications for Samsung gadgets: Samsung Kies or Smart Switch. The difference between these programs is that you cannot download latest firmware through Samsung Kies (you can update a maximum of Android 4.2.2 to 5.0).
Updating Android using Smart Switch:
- connect the smartphone to the PC;
- if a smartphone with an old software version is connected, the user will receive a message about the opportunity to download a new version. Click on the “Continue” button;
- We are waiting for the new software to install on the phone.
In a similar way, you can update through the Samsung Kies program. In the same way, when connecting the device and launching the program on the screen (if new software is available), the user will be prompted to install the firmware.
What consequences can an Android OS update lead to?
It is strictly prohibited to interfere with the running update of Android 4.4.2 to 5.0 (or to other OS versions). Interrupting the installation may lead to the loss of personal information (photos and contacts may be deleted), incorrect operation of the device or its failure.
Before connecting your smartphone to your PC, you need to make sure that the USB cable is working properly.
Before installing new firmware, you should make a backup copy of your data in any known way (use a backup program, synchronize photos, videos and contacts with your Google account, etc.).
We continue the topic of experimenting with my new phone. From the experience of using routers and other equipment, I have developed a strong habit - first of all, update their “brains”. The thing is that from the moment the device leaves the factory until it falls into your hands, more than one month may pass, and during this time its firmware could undergo significant changes and open up wider possibilities for use for the user. And today we will clearly check how to flash a Samsung phone on Android 4.4 and how safe is it to do it yourself?
Ways to flash a Samsung phone on Android 4.4
There are several ways to flash an Android phone. The first is directly from him through the system. My Samsung was running Android 4.4, and if you go to “Settings > Phone Information > Software Update,” you can configure it to automatically check for new firmware for your model. To do this, check the “Auto-update” box. I also recommend activating the “Wi-Fi Only” option; in this case, the presence of a new version will be checked only when the phone is connected to a wireless network, otherwise it will constantly waste your mobile traffic through the cellular operator, which is fraught with loss of money.
The scan can be started manually by clicking on “Update”.
Flashing a Samsung phone on Android, like any other, can only be started with a 100% charged battery
However, this option for updating the Samsung Galaxy firmware is not entirely convenient and can fail in the middle, as happened to me. Therefore, I recommend performing this task using a special program installed on a computer and with a phone connected to it via a USB cable.
There are also variations here - you can do it using the official Samsung Kies program, or you can use the popular Odin or its equivalent. In the latter case, it is possible to use both official firmware for Samsung phones on Android, and from third-party developers, which are often more convenient and open up wider possibilities for the phone, but it will not be covered by the factory warranty. Therefore, it is recommended to install third-party firmware only after the warranty period has expired.
How to officially flash a Samsung phone on Android?
So, let's start figuring out how to flash Android using the Samsung update as an example, and turn to the Samsung Kies program, which can be downloaded here. By the way, it was created by analogy with Apple's iTunes and with its help you can completely synchronize your phone with your PC - contacts, files, music, etc.
Before you start updating the Samsung firmware to a new Android, it is recommended to make a backup copy using your phone or via Kies to avoid possible data loss
First we install the program. At the same time, drivers for all kinds of devices from this company will be added to the computer, including yours. We launch it, connect the phone to the computer via USB and wait until it is recognized.
Next, after a window opens with all the basic data about your phone, select “Firmware update” and if it is available, this will be reported in an additional window that opens.
Click the “Update” button, agree to the rules and confirm our desire. And we wait for the end.. Do not touch the phone during this time and under no circumstances disconnect it from the cable from the computer. By the way, I don’t recommend leaving for a long time either, since your antivirus or firewall may crash a couple of times, in which you will need to allow Kies to perform its functions. Also disable the antivirus on the mobile phone itself, otherwise it will not allow the system to update.
As a result, we get this and confirm the end of the software update.
Updating Android Firmware on Samsung Phone via Odin
Now let's turn to the “gray” firmware. I suggest you watch the step-by-step video first, and then we’ll continue.
First of all, you need to put the phone into download mode (“Downloading”), which is done by simultaneously pressing the “Home”, “Power” and “Volume minus” (or “Volume plus” depending on the model) key combination. If done correctly, the Android logo and an inscription about boot mode will appear on the screen.
Next, download and install the Odin MultiDownloader program (you can easily find it on any thematic website or Google it in a search engine) - this is a professional program intended for service centers, so you don’t have to be scared, if you do everything correctly in it, then nothing bad will happen to your phone.
And you will also need the firmware files that you downloaded from the official website or any third-party firmware support forum. As a rule, there are four of them - PDA, the main firmware file; PHONE, which is responsible for working with the cellular operator’s network; CSC – phone settings; and PIT – service information storage. Make sure they are all included in the set. However, there are also single-file versions, in which case it will need to be imported in place of the main one - PDA.
If you are working on a computer with Windows 7 or higher installed, then this will be enough. If you have XP, then you will also have to install the Kies program that we have already disassembled, which will install drivers for your Android phone on Windows, or separately the drivers themselves - Samsung USB Driver for Mobile Phones. On the same site you can also select firewood specifically for your model and version of the computer OS.
Now you must first of all kill all Kies processes if you installed and launched it. To do this, press the key combination Ctrl+Alt+Del on your computer and look for processes that have the word “Kies” in their names. And we complete them. Then we launch Odin - our smartphone is already in download mode - connect it via a USB cable and press the “Volume Up” button (in relation to the Samsung Galaxy S2).
Now you can start updating the software.
In the Odin program, one (first) ID:COM section should be displayed in yellow (there are several of them for simultaneous work with several phones). In the program, check the boxes for “Re-Partition”, “Autoreboot” and “F.Reset Time”.
Now press the “Start” button and wait for the process to complete until the process graph reaches the end, lights up green and the word “Pass” appears.
After this, the phone will reboot and start working on the new software version. Additionally, you can use the *#1234# command to check the current version. You can also completely clear all data using the service code *2767*3855#.
This completes the firmware for a Samsung phone based on Android OS, thank you all for your attention!
Update the software in a timely manner, this will help you ensure the stability of your smartphone and also use new functionality of the programs. In addition, it increases the security and safety of data on your device.
Update via Wi-fi
If possible, use a wi-fi connection - this will avoid installation failures and save mobile traffic.
- Before updating, check the battery charge (50% or more is required), do not turn off the phone or remove the battery during the update process.
- Go to the menu "Settings" - "Advanced" - "About device" - "Software update"
- Select "Update" and wait for the process to complete. Read notifications carefully; some system updates may delete your data or contacts.
other methods
Automatic update
When new versions of applications are detected, your phone will display a notification. Open the Quick Access Toolbar and confirm to download new components. After the download is complete, select install updates.
Updating using a computer
- Install the Kies (or Kies3) program to synchronize your PC with your phone.
- Connect your phone to your computer using a USB cable and launch the program.
- Select the "Updates" menu item and follow the instructions.
Update in the store
You can also contact a Samsung service center or a company store and use “smart updates”.
