Why Can’t My Device Update into the Marshmallow OS?

When your device fails to update to the Marshmallow OS or any subsequent Android versions, the issue can often stem from two main reasons. Firstly, your carrier or device manufacturers may have not pushed out an update yet. Secondly, in “older” devices, these companies might have discontinued providing Android updates. In the latter case, unless you are skilled in installing custom firmware, you may be left with the version your phone is currently running on.

Device-Specific Update Roadblocks

The type of phone you are using is critical in determining whether or not you can update to Marshmallow or other newer versions. The manufacturer plays a significant role in whether an update will become available for your specific model. If the manufacturer decides to release an update for your phone model, you should be able to proceed; otherwise, you will remain on the OS version your device operates on currently. For example, the Samsung Galaxy J7 is an older device, and Samsung J7 users might find that newer versions like Nougat are not available through standard updates.

Checking for Available Updates

To check for available software updates, navigate to your device's settings and look for the 'About Phone' or 'System Updates' option. If your carrier has released an update, it will appear here. Manufacturers like Samsung often have automatic update features, but not all device makers do. For instance, the older model of the Galaxy J7 running on Metro PCS does not automatically receive updates.

Manual Updates and the Nougat Experience

Samsung has recently rolled out the latest Android Nougat update for its Galaxy J7 2016 smartphone, initially in Russia. However, it is expected to be rolled out to other regions soon. If you are eager to upgrade to Android Nougat, you may need to root your device. This is a necessary step because official updates are not always available unless initiated by the manufacturer.

If official software updates are not available, you can opt for custom firmware. For example, if you want to install Nougat on your device, you may need to download custom software and flash it onto your smartphone. While installing custom firmware can provide the latest OS, it is a risky process and should only be undertaken by users with experience in rooting their devices.

Steps to Install Updates Manually

Open your device's settings. Search for 'About Phone' or 'System Updates'. Select 'Download Updates Manually'. After the download is complete, choose a preferable time to install.

CAUTION: Make sure to have at least 50% battery level or else keep your device connected to a power cord.

As of now, Samsung has already released the Nougat 7.0 update for several models of the Galaxy J Series, including the Galaxy J7 Prime and the Galaxy J7 2016. The Nougat update is now available for these models, providing enhanced usability and performance improvements.

Should you be unsuccessful in updating through official channels, understanding the reasons behind this limitation and exploring custom firmware solutions can be a viable alternative. If you’re not comfortable with the risks involved in rooting your device, it’s best to continue using the version that your phone currently supports.

Conclusion

While not every device receives updates from the manufacturer, staying informed about the availability of official updates and exploring custom solutions can help you maintain the functionality of your device as new Android versions are released. If you have an older phone model like the Samsung Galaxy J7, knowing the steps to check for and install updates is crucial for ensuring a smooth experience.