How to Update Android TV: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updating your Android TV offers you several benefits, such as smoother performance, enhanced security, and easy access to the latest apps and features. 

Whether you have a TCL, Sony, Hisense, or any other TV brand at your home, updating it will require some simple steps that won’t take you much time. 

Therefore, in this article, we will guide you through how to check and install the latest updates on the Android TV and also what to do if your update fails. So, let’s begin right away!

Why You Should Update Your Android TV

Before you start with the steps, here we have listed some primary reasons why updating the Android TV is important. Take a look attentively. 

1. Enhance Performance: Updates often help you fix the unwanted bugs and glitches that may slow down your system. 

2. Boost Security: Enabling regular security upgrades in your system will protect your device from any potential malware or virus threats. Also, it will keep your streaming activity safe. 

3. Fixes Bugs: Often, updates are to resolve the errors and glitches that may create trouble in your system functionality.

4. Access to Latest Features: Updates can introduce you to new features such as better app interrogation, improved voice controls, and enhanced accessibility options. 

Therefore, by keeping your system up-to-date regularly, you can improve your overall experience while using your Android TV.

How to Update Android TV (Manual Method)

Adhere to the following steps to check and install the latest updates on your system without any difficulty. 

1. Turn on your Android TV and ensure it is connected to Wi-Fi. 

2. Press the Home button on the remote to open the main menu on your device. 

3. Locate the Setting option (a gear-like icon, usually located in the top-right corner). 

4. Go for the Device Preferences >> About. 

5. Select the “System Update” or “Software Update” option. 

6. If there is any update available, you will see a request message. Tap on “Download” or “Install” option to start your updating process. 

7. Wait for a while until the download procedure is completed. Your device may restart automatically after it finishes.

Automatic Updates (Optional)

Nowadays, most Android TV comes with a feature that automatically checks and installs the latest updates on your device. To enable this on your system, follow the steps mentioned below carefully. 

1. Go to the Settings option on your TV. 

2. Navigate to Device Preferences. 

3. Locate About >> System Update. 

4. Turn on the Auto Update option (if available). 

Consequently, in this way, your device will automatically detect updates and install them in your device as they arrive. 

Troubleshooting Update Issues

After performing the aforementioned steps, if your device didn’t get updated or is constantly showing a failed procedure on your screen, try the following instructions to resolve the issue. 

1. Check Your Internet Connectivity: You can try to use an Ethernet cable or switch to another connection to complete the update process. 
2. Restart Your Android TV: Sometimes rebooting the device fixes the small glitches or errors that may be causing the trouble. 
3. Clean the Device Storage: Go to Settings >> Storage and delete the unused apps and clear cache. 
4. Go for the Factory Reset: If nothing works out for you, go for the Settings >> Device Preferences >> Reset.

How to Know If Your TV Is Android TV or Google TV

Both Android TV and Google TV run on the same platform, but they have significantly different layouts. So, to determine which device you have, check the user interface (UI) and settings menu for your system. 

For instance, Android TV typically displays a more basic and app-focused interface for its users. Conversely, Google TV features a content-centered dashboard with recommendations from various streaming platforms.

How Often Should You Check for Updates?

The frequency of checking and installing updates depends on the type of software you are using. Most of the latest brands introduce changes every month, so you might need to perform your updating activity accordingly. 

Likewise, if you are using a model older than 5 to 6 years, updates might become less frequent and eventually stop. 

Thus, generally, you can check for the new enhancements once a month to ensure you are not using an outdated version. 

Final Thoughts 

In the end, updating your Android TV is one of the simplest ways through which you can extend the life of your device and enhance its overall performance. Furthermore, with regular updates, you’ll not only get access to the latest features but also make your TV more secure and compatible. 

Lastly, whether you are new to Android TV or haven’t checked for updates in a long time, give a break to your streaming and take a few minutes to execute the aforementioned updating steps.