Android phones running this version must update ASAP — what you need to know

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If you have Android 12 or older, you need to update or get a new phone

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There are numerous Android versions available, and some are less secure than others. While most Android users download the new updates as soon as they're available, some users are reluctant.

But those running Android 12 or older now have a very good reason for hitting that update button. Google is putting an annual security update requirement in place for any phone running Android 13 or higher.

How to update your Android phone

Android 14

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

To check if your Android phone is up to date, go to Settings, then System, and finally Software to look for an update. Update the phone and you'll be secure and locked down.

We have a comprehensive guide that will help you keep your phone up to date. Follow that and you can be sure you have the latest version of Android available to your device.

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Dave LeClair
Dave LeClair
Senior News Editor

Dave LeClair is the Senior News Editor for Tom's Guide, keeping his finger on the pulse of all things technology. He loves taking the complicated happenings in the tech world and explaining why they matter. Whether Apple is announcing the next big thing in the mobile space or a small startup advancing generative AI, Dave will apply his experience to help you figure out what's happening and why it's relevant to your life.

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