The term firmware is still unknown to the general public. And yet without it, smartphones could not work. What is the firmware for? Why are there multiple versions of firmware for the same phone model? How do I update it? We will try to answer all of these questions..
Definition of firmware
If you are reading this article, it is most certainly that you have already heard of the firmware and that you would like to know more. To put it simply, the firmware (also called firmware) corresponds to the program built into the smartphone. The latter includes a set of computer code that will allow you to manage the various components of your smartphone.
Unlike traditional software (such as word processing), the firmware has been specially designed for specific hardware. You will therefore not be able to install or uninstall it as you do with an application. On the other hand, manufacturers regularly offer updates to improve the performance of their phones or to correct security vulnerabilities..
Finally last important point, the firmware is not limited only to the world of Android smartphones. They are found in a whole bunch of electronic devices. DVD players, Wi-Fi routers, connected watches, scanners, cameras also have their own firmware.
How to find the firmware number of your phone
You do not know which firmware version is installed on your mobile? And yet this information can be very useful, especially in the event of a breakdown. When you call the telephone assistant, the technical advisor will ask you to give him the firmware number, also called the build number..
Without this precious sesame, after-sales service will have the greatest difficulty in carrying out a remote diagnosis of your device.
- Open your Android device settings
- Go down the window
- Click on the System section
- Select the About phone option
- Locate the line titled Software Number or Build Number
How to update the firmware software of an Android mobile
Updating the firmware of your smartphone offers many advantages. This allows for example to take advantage of new features, change the appearance of his phone or fix bugs.
There are different ways to update your mobile (automatic or manual). Whichever method is used, it is important to ensure that the device has sufficient autonomy. An incomplete firmware update may affect the operation of your device.
- Connect your smartphone to an electrical outlet
- Open settings
- Click on About and then on System Update
If your device does not have the latest firmware, a message will prompt you to download the latest version. Then follow the information on the screen. Please note that the installation procedure is generally quite long.
Finally, last important point, the deployment of updates depends on the manufacturer and the phone model. So do not be surprised if your machine does not offer any updates.
Manually update firmware
Some smartphone manufacturers offer to manually download updates directly from their website. Before embarking on this adventure, make sure that the downloaded firmware matches your mobile model. Installing the wrong version could damage your device.
- Go to the official website of the manufacturer of your phone
- Click on the Assistance tab
- Download the new firmware version for your device
- Be careful to choose a firmware in French
- Save the Zip file to your computer
- Then follow the information provided by the manufacturer to finalize the installation of the new firmware version