In the info centre, you'll regularly see notifications informing you of available updates. Many smartphone users wonder what these mean and whether they need to do anything with regard to them.

The word update obviously implies that something is being brought into line with the latest standards. Both the Android operating system, which is the basis of your smartphone, and all apps are continuously being developed further. These adjustments are then made available as updates in the Play Store and all users are informed of their availability by notifications.

It always makes sense to keep your operating system and apps up to date. Updates don't just improve functionality, but also often close security holes that may not yet have been present when you purchased your phone.

Tip: Remember that the development of malware such as spyware and viruses also never ceases – so updates are first and foremost for your security.

The symbol and text line in the notification will tell you what the update is for.

• The symbol will often refer to the Google Play Store , because updateswill be offered for every app you have installed from the Play Store.
• The text will indicate which app the update is for.

Tip: Some apps, especially those for the operating system, will be performed automatically. When this happens, you will receive a notification that says Update performed. When updates are installed automatically, you don't need to do anything else and can delete the notification.

To perform an update, simply tap on the notification. The data for the update will then be sent to the phone via your Internet connection and installed.

Tip: It is best to use a Wi-Fi connection to perform updates, so that they don't use your mobile data.