This article shows how to update the operating system of an Android Tablet. Read on to find out how.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Use Wi-Fi Connection
Step 1. Connect the tablet to the Wi-Fi network
To do this, swipe the screen from top to bottom to display the quick settings and notification bar, then tap the "Wi-Fi" icon.
- If your device does not automatically connect to a Wi-Fi network, select the one you want and provide the login password if prompted.
- Using a Wi-Fi network to update the operating system of an Android device is the easiest way to do this and also the one recommended by manufacturers and developers.
Step 2. Launch your tablet's "Settings" app
It features a gear icon (⚙️) and is usually located within the "Applications" panel.
Step 3. Go to the General tab
It is located at the top of the screen.
Step 4. Scroll down the list to locate and select the Device Info item
It should be the last one on the menu.
Step 5. Tap Update
It is located at the top of the menu. Depending on the version of Android you are using, this option may be listed as "Software Update" or "System Firmware Update".
Step 6. Select the Check for Updates option
The tablet will start automatically searching for new updates for the operating system.
Many versions of Android are customized by the manufacturer of the device you are using, so your tablet will only search for updates that are compatible with the version of Android installed
Step 7. Press the Update button
If new software updates are found, the button to download and install them will be shown at the top of the menu.
Step 8. Press the Install button
The latter may also be referred to as "Reboot and Install" or "Install System Software". This will start downloading the files needed to complete the update installation.
After the installation is complete, the tablet will automatically restart for the new update to take effect
Method 2 of 3: Using a Desktop Computer
Step 1. Access your tablet manufacturer's website using a desktop computer's internet browser
Once you have reached the correct web page, follow the links present to access the technical support section and then to the one relating to the download of the software components.
In order to download software updates for your tablet you may need to provide the relevant technical information (model and serial number) or register it in your name by creating an account
Step 2. Download and install the device management program from your computer
The name and the functions performed by this type of tool vary according to the manufacturer of the tablet.
For example, in the case of devices manufactured by Samsung the management software is called "Kies", while in the case of Motorola devices it is called "MDM"
Step 3. Return to the official website of the company that manufactured the tablet, then go to the technical support and software download section
Step 4. Search for new available updates
Operating system updates are normally distributed in the form of compressed archives, which can be downloaded and installed via the management program developed by the device manufacturer.
Step 5. Connect the tablet to the computer
To do this, use the USB cable supplied at the time of purchase. In most cases it will be equipped with a standard USB connector and a micro-USB connector.
Step 6. Run the program to connect the computer and the device
Step 7. Find the section and controls to upgrade
They are usually located within a dedicated tab or drop-down menu located at the top of the program window.
For example, if you are using the Kies program, you will need to access the "Tools" drop-down menu
Step 8. Select the command to update
This will start the download and installation of the necessary files. At this point you just have to follow the instructions that appear on the screen and wait for the process to complete.
Method 3 of 3: Root the Tablet
Step 1. Back up your device completely
This step is necessary in case you want to restore the original software at a later time.
- The "root" of an Android device allows you to install a version of the operating system that is not supported and officially distributed by the manufacturer.
- The versions of Android customized by the manufacturers of tablets and smartphones have limitations. For example, they do not allow the installation of programs that are not suitable for the specific model of tablet in use. If the version of Android you want to install is not compatible with your tablet, having the original software backup will allow you to restore the device to factory settings without losing the personal information contained within.
Step 2. Search online to find the right software to "root" your device
Use a desktop computer browser to locate a program made specifically to "root" your specific tablet model.
Step 3. Download the installation file
Once the download is complete, run it, then follow the instructions that appear on the screen to install the chosen program on your computer.
Step 4. Connect the tablet to the computer
To do this, use the USB cable supplied at the time of purchase. In most cases it will be equipped with a standard USB connector and a micro-USB connector.
Step 5. Open the program to "root"
Step 6. Start the "rooting" process
Again, follow the instructions that appear on the screen to "root" the tablet in total safety.
If your chosen program does not come with a wizard, search online for a video tutorial or written document that contains detailed instructions for "root" your tablet model
Step 7. Reboot the device
At the end of the "rooting" procedure, restart the tablet to make the changes effective and to be able to use the new version of Android installed.
Advice
- Updating the Android operating system of a rooted tablet is done in the same way as a regular device. You need to connect it to your computer and use specific software and the version of Android you want to install.
- Before proceeding with the Android update, it is always a good idea to back up your personal data on your Google account or on your computer.
Warnings
- Remember that rooting your device voids the manufacturer's warranty.
- Root allows you to install any version of Android on your device, but remember that installing a version of the operating system not designed for your device model could slow down its normal operation or, in extreme cases, damage it.
- Since the electronic components of a tablet are not replaceable with more modern versions (as is the case for example in desktop computers), you may not be able to install the latest Android versions.
