Why Google Play System Updates are Vital for Your Android Device

Android receives both a significant annual firmware update and regular monthly updates. Among these, Google Play Security Updates stand out as they serve a distinct purpose from the monthly security patches. Discover more about their role in this Cybersecurity Awareness Week article, presented in partnership with Incogni.

What Is a Google Play System Update?

Starting from the fragment "Google Play System Updates were introduced in Android 10 (originally known as Project Mainline).":

In Android 10 (originally referred to as Project Mainline), Google introduced Google Play System Updates. It is mandatory for all devices running Android 10 or newer to have these updates. While phone and tablet manufacturers are responsible for delivering security patches, Google is in charge of distributing the Google Play System Updates.

With Android 10, Google transformed 12 core elements into separate "modules." As a result, Google can now independently address these modules without the need for a complete firmware update or involvement from the phone manufacturer.

Google Play System Updates primarily focus on addressing security issues, whereas monthly security patches serve a distinct purpose. It is important to note that all devices running Android 10 and above are eligible to receive Google Play Security Updates, regardless of their latest security patch status.

An illustrative instance where the implementation of Google Play System Updates would have been beneficial is the Stagefright security vulnerability discovered in 2015. Stagefright targeted a multimedia player component within the Android operating system. The media framework represents just one of the twelve components that can be updated through Google Play System Updates. Unfortunately, numerous devices were left unpatched against Stagefright as it necessitated a firmware update, which was not widely provided.

Check Which Version of the Google Play System You Have

The key advantage of Google Play System Updates is that they eliminate the need for firmware updates or phone manufacturers. It is important to note that this doesn't imply Google can bypass your phone's manufacturer entirely and immediately provide you with the latest features. However, it does ensure that you can be free from concerns related to certain significant security vulnerabilities.

To determine your current Google Play Security Update version or to check for any available updates, simply swipe down from the top of your screen (once or twice, depending on your device's manufacturer). Following that, tap on the gear icon to access the Settings menu.

Tap "Security & Privacy."

Scroll down to "System & Updates."

Now, you can see the date for the Google Play System update on your device.

You can tap the Google Play System update to check for an update. If one is available, you'll be able to tap "Restart Now" to apply it.

Note that the "Security Update" and "Google Play System Update" won't necessarily have the same date. They both aim to address different parts of keeping your phone secure.