Android has matured as an OS, so you might not see radical changes in the latest releases. But you should still pay attention to the Android version on your phone. You should also know the OS’s build number and the monthly Google Play system build, even if it’s one ofour favorite budget Android phones.
Why does your phone’s Android version and build number matter?
It is important to know the Android version your phone is running on, especially when buying a new one. The latest Android release typically packs new features, security improvements, and enhanced privacy to deliver a better user experience. These changes make existing Android phones feel like new and help them perform better.
When purchasing a new Android phone, look for a device running the latest OS version. Google typically releases a new Android build in August or September. Android manufacturers take a few weeks to months to roll out the update to their phones. The best Android phone you buy aroundBlack Fridaymight be running an older version of the OS.
After Google Pixels, Samsung’s flagship phones are among the first to get the latest Android release. This is followed by OnePlus, Sony, and others, which could take two to four months to bring the OS update to your phone. Consider how quickly (and frequently) a device maker rolls out the latest Android release when buying a new phone.
As for the build number, Google rolls out a new version of the latest Android release every month with bug fixes, improvements, security patches, and other enhancements. For example, the initialAndroid 14release for thePixel Foldhas the build number UP1A.231005.007, while the November update carries the build number UP1A.231105.003. This build number varies between devices despite running the same Android version. The same phones can have different build numbers if they are from separate regions or carriers.
How to roll back to an older version of Android
You can pick the method that works best for you
How to find the Android version and build number of your Google Pixel
Your phone should run the latest build of the most recent Android version. A new OS release can ship with unwanted bugs and stability issues, which Google might have resolved in a subsequent build.
Here’s how to find your build number:
Also, check your phone’s monthly security patch. Google (and Samsung) roll out monthly security patches for their compatible devices. These security patches contain bug fixes and patches for critical security issues.Check for software updates on your Google Pixelif it runs an old Android build. Other companies typically roll out security patches on a bi-monthly basis.
How to find the Android version and build number on a Samsung phone
If you have a Samsung Galaxy phone, here’s how to find the build number:
The One UI version listed is also important, as Samsung keeps improving its Android skin with regular updates. For example, theOne UI 5.1.1 updateforSamsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 4and Flip 4 introduced new features and enhancements despite being based onAndroid 13.
How to find the Android version and build number on other Android phones
Almost every Android phone lists the Android version and build number in itsAbout devicesection. Finding this information is similar across devices, though not the same.
TapBuild numberseven times to turn on the hidden Developer options menu.
How to find your Android phone’s Google Play system update build
Besides the Android version and build number, you should know the Google Play system update build your phone runs. This is important as Google pushes new features and fixes through a Play system update instead of releasing a new Android OS build.
To check for an update, tap it and select theCheck for updateoption. Google typically rolls out one Play system update every month. These updates are pushed independently of your carrier or region, allowing faster rollouts. After installing a new Google Play system update build, restart your phone.
Keep Google Play Services updated on your phoneto ensure you don’t have issues with Google’s apps and services.
Always keep your Android phone updated
Always keep your Android phone updated, running the latest OS build, security patch, and Google Play system update. This ensures your phone runs at its optimum level. The newest security patch ensures there isn’t a risk to your privacy. When you’re done updating your phone, check out our guide onhow to update Android apps. If you own a Chromebook, here’show to check for ChromeOS updates.
