Our smartphones regularly notify us when a new software update is available, but sometimes, there is just no right time to install it. In this article, we explore the main benefits of software updates so that you won't miss them next time. Follow along!
What Are Mobile Software Updates?
An operating system (OS) is software that manages hardware and provides essential services for applications. Well-known examples of operating systems include Android, macOS, and Linux. According to StatCounter research from December 2024, Android has the biggest market share in the world—73.52%. Second, by a wide margin, is iOS—26.01%. Other operating systems each have less than a 1% share.
Operating systems evolve continuously, implementing changes and improvements. They are released with updates.
How Software Updates Affect Reselling Used Phones
While software updates offer many benefits, which we’ll explore shortly, chasing the latest OS versions on smartphones intended for resale isn’t always the best approach. On Android devices, apps often need time to adapt to a new OS, which can lead to an imperfect user experience for your clients.
Therefore, in some cases, older operating systems might actually be better for resale.
How Updates Benefit User Experience and Data Protection
The primary purpose of updates is to enhance the system's functionality, security, and alignment with customer needs. Let’s take a closer look at the four key benefits that updates provide.
Enhanced Data Protection
All systems have vulnerabilities—whether hidden or apparent—that require timely fixes. Moreover, these vulnerabilities can worsen over time as hacker tools and techniques evolve. Operating system updates address these threats by reinforcing security measures, fixing weaknesses, and preventing potential data breaches.
Fixed Bugs
Systems may be imperfect and have flaws that only become noticeable after release, during use. Software developers then look for ways to fix them and resolve these problems with the next update. As a result, customers experience better performance and fewer issues.
New Features
In addition to addressing previous mistakes and weaknesses, updates introduce new features and enhanced functionality. Installing updates can significantly enhance your user experience by replacing outdated tools with modern solutions. Updates also ensure access to cutting-edge features.
For example, with updates, NSYS Diagnostics introduces new features such as Browser Testing and Camera Defect Detection that expand user capabilities and elevate phone testing.
Better Interoperability
In addition to operating systems, applications also release updates to enhance their performance. Typically, apps adapt to newer OS versions and may not support older ones. For example, WhatsApp works only on Android versions 5.0 and newer and iOS versions 12 and newer.
Updating your operating system ensures compatibility with the latest application versions, thereby improving the overall user experience.
What Happens If Updates Aren’t Installed?
Choosing not to install updates can lead to several significant drawbacks:
- Security Vulnerability. The most critical consequence is increased exposure to security threats. This can result in data breaches, identity theft, financial loss, or even legal complications.
- Poor Performance. Without updates, your device may become slower, experience frequent crashes, and lack access to new features.
- Issues with Compatibility. Older operating system versions may not support the latest application updates, potentially making some apps unusable.
To avoid these problems, it is crucial to keep your software up to date. Enabling automatic updates ensures you won’t miss the latest releases. If you prefer manual updates, make checking for them a regular habit.
Additionally, always remember to back up your data to prevent losses during updates. Unexpected errors, such as power outages or software conflicts, can sometimes result in data loss. Use cloud storage and external drives to ensure secure data protection and a smooth update process.
How Businesses of Used Devices Can Protect Data
Data protection is extremely important for businesses that operate with large volumes of smartphones. They need to ensure that the data of all previous device owners is wiped securely and irrecoverably, preventing data breaches.
NSYS Data Erasure is a software solution that erases data in accordance with international standards such as NIST and ADISA. Moreover, it significantly speeds up the process, as up to 60 devices can be connected to a single PC.
Try NSYS Data Erasure to ensure safe and secure data maintenance for your inventory!
