# Android version and security patch level

> How to see which Android version and security patch your phone has, how to update, and why the patch date matters.

Every Android phone shows two version numbers: the Android version (for example Android 15) and the Android security patch level, a date such as 2026-09-01 that tells which monthly security fixes are installed. Both are in Settings > About phone > Android version, and updates are installed from Settings > System > Software updates.

## Why the patch date matters

Google publishes the Android Security Bulletin every month with the vulnerabilities fixed in that patch level. A patch date many months old means known security problems remain open on the phone.

## Google Play system updates

Some system components are updated through Google Play system updates, shown separately with their own date under Security & privacy or About phone.

## When updates stop

Manufacturers support each model for a limited number of years. After that, no new patches arrive and the phone is best kept away from sensitive tasks.

## How to check and update

1. Open Settings > About phone > Android version.
2. Note the Android version and the Android security update date.
3. Open Settings > System > Software updates (or Software update on Samsung) and install what is offered.
4. Restart when asked and check the date again.

## Cautions

- Charge the phone and use Wi-Fi before a large update.
- Do not install system updates from unofficial websites.

## Sources

- [Check & update your Android version (Android Help)](https://support.google.com/android/answer/7680439)
- [Android Security Bulletins (Android Open Source Project)](https://source.android.com/docs/security/bulletin)

Last updated: 2026-10-08
URL: https://raincleaner.eu/wiki/android/android-version