How to update iPad Apps

Software is constantly changing. People discover and report new bugs (software problems) or technology improves and the software developers decide to add new features to existing Apps.

Digital Globe

This is why the iPad operating system (iOS) allows you to update the Apps you have installed. Note, this is different from an iOS update where the whole operating system is renewed. Updating an App only changes that particular App, usually for better. Although sometimes with the update the software developer introduces new problems. People usually notice them right away and then the developer releases a new version. The dance continues over time. New features, new fixes, new updates, new problems, new fixes…

Applicable to:
iPad versions: iPad, iPad 2, the New iPad, iPad mini, iPad with Retina Display
iOS versions: iOS 5, iOS 6 and up

Why isn’t this process automated? Why do we have to bother updating the App versions ourselves?

There’s several reasons for this. Maybe the App is working fine for us and we don’t want to update it for now or maybe we are connected through a cellular network and would like to update later on when connected through Wi-Fi.

How do I update my Apps?

The App Store icon usually displays a number next to it that indicates how many App updates are available.

ipad-app-store-icon

Tap on the App Store icon and then tap on Updates (lower right)

ipad-app-store-updates

Search for the App that you would like to update and then tap the Update button next to it. In this example I’m tapping on the Google App.

google-app-update

On iOS 5 or previous, updating an app required to enter your Apple ID password. On iOS 6 there’s no need to enter a password when updating an App.

The Update button changes from Update to Installing and once it’s done, it changes to Open. That’s it. Your App has been updated.

google-app-installing
google-app-open

Let me know how it goes by posting a comment on the form below.