In the realm of Android devices, keeping your system software updated is not merely a suggestion; it’s a necessity. These updates are packed with vital bug fixes and security enhancements that bolster your phone’s safety. Additionally, they often introduce exciting new features and interface improvements, ultimately enhancing your device’s performance and responsiveness. Each major revision brings a plethora of new capabilities, making it essential to stay current.
While the update process is generally straightforward, it can occasionally involve more intricate steps that may not be immediately apparent. Many devices do not prompt users to follow these additional procedures, and they often go unmentioned in online forums unless users encounter issues post-update. A prudent practice is to review your device settings after a significant update, as new options may have been added, and existing ones might have been altered or reset. Notably, certain settings related to mobile data preferences and background downloads could revert to defaults, which has previously led to legal scrutiny for companies like Google.
Not clearing your phone’s cache and rebooting
Once a software update is complete, it’s easy to assume everything is functioning optimally. However, it’s wise to cultivate the habit of clearing your device’s system cache and rebooting. During the update process, temporary files accumulate in a dedicated storage area known as the cache. These files can consume unnecessary space and potentially slow down your device. Moreover, remnants from previous app versions may linger, further complicating performance. Therefore, clearing the cache and rebooting ensures a fresh start with the new software version.
To clear the cache, power down your device and access the Android Recovery menu by booting it appropriately. For Samsung Galaxy devices, press and hold the power and volume up buttons simultaneously. Pixel and most Motorola devices require pressing the power and volume down buttons. In the recovery menu, navigate using the volume keys and select options with the power button. Highlight the “Wipe Cache Partition” option, confirm your selection, and wait for the process to complete. Once finished, return to the main recovery menu and select “Reboot System Now.” This procedure will not erase personal data or settings, only the temporary files.
Not doing more after the cache wipe
Following a major update, it’s also prudent to update individual apps through the Google Play Store or your preferred app store, such as Samsung’s Galaxy Store. Certain apps may only show available updates for specific Android builds or versions, meaning additional updates could surface after the system software changes. To check for updates in Google Play, navigate to your profile icon in the top right corner, select “Manage apps & device,” and then choose “Update all” or “See Details” for more information.
While it may not be a primary concern, checking your device’s available storage is also advisable. Software updates can install large data packages, which may reduce available space. A device with less than 10% free storage, as recommended by Google, may experience performance issues. To verify storage, access settings and navigate to “Storage” or “Device care > Storage” on Samsung devices. If space is limited, consider removing some apps, clearing app caches, or deleting old photos and videos, provided they are backed up.
If you continue to experience freezes or crashes, rebooting your device in safe mode can be beneficial. The method varies by manufacturer; for instance, Samsung devices differ from Pixel devices. Google recommends visiting the manufacturer’s support site for specific instructions. Safe mode disables all extra apps running in the background and removes home screen widgets, allowing you to diagnose issues effectively. By booting in safe mode, you can systematically remove recent apps until you identify the source of the problem.
