Introduction
LG Velvet is a flagship smartphone from LG offering an elegant design with state-of-the-art features and high performance. To keep the device optimized and for adding new features and security enhancements, updates to the firmware become necessary. Firmware updates are necessary to ensure device efficiency by correcting bugs and conferring compatibility with new applications and features. This comprehensive guide will explain the workings of LG Velvet firmware updates and how important they are, how to update them, common issues faced, and the best practice to adopt for an easy update process.
What is Firmware?
Firmware is a type of program that provides something akin to low-level control for a device’s hardware. In contrast to conventional software applications, firmware is programmed into the device hardware itself so that the processor can perform certain functions. Firmware updates may improve the performance of a device, patch security vulnerabilities, or add new features and functionalities to the device.
Importance of Firmware Updates
Performance Enhancements:
Firmware upgrades tend to optimize the system performance, thereby offering services to battery life, and finally to the user experience.
Bug Fixes:
Updates intend to fix issues and bugs detected in order to ensure smooth and uninterrupted running of the device and lessen probable system crashes or errors.
Security Patches:
Security updates keep the device protected from vulnerabilities and threats, thus protecting personal data and preventing attacks through unauthorized access.
The New Firmware:
The firmware update brings in new functionalities and features to keep the device updated with current advancements in technology.
Compatibility:
Updates make sure that the device will be usable with new applications, technologies, and services, thus ensuring compatibility with new inventions.
How to Check for Firmware Updates on LG Velvet
Before you proceed, it is important to check if an update is available for your LG Velvet. Check for Firmware Updates on LG Velvet:
Steps to Check for Firmware Updates
Connect to Wi-Fi:
Always ensure your LG Velvet connects to an uninterrupted Wi-Fi network. Firmware updates can be sizable, requiring data usage.
Open Settings:
Get into the “Settings” on your LG Velvet.
Go to System Updates:
Now scroll down, tap on “System” or “About phone,” then tap on “Software update” or “System update.”
Check for Updates:
Tap on the option `Check for updates`. Your device acts to search for available updates.
Download and Install:
If any update is present, follow all prompts to download and install it. Keep your LG Velvet connected to Wi-Fi and have ample battery life to complete the update.
Types of Firmware Updates
There are several types of firmware updates that serve various purposes. Knowing the distinctions can help with proper management of your device’s software.
1. Official OTA (Over-The-Air) Updates
These updates are dispatched by LG and transmitted directly to your device wirelessly. Updates of this nature are automatic for the most part, requiring little input from the user.
Pros:
These updates certainly are convenient and easy to install.
Provide important updates regarding security patches, performance, and new features.
Cons:
Need a steady Wi-Fi connection.
Sometimes, the updates take time to appear on all the devices.
2. Manual Update via LG Bridge
This is software that lets the user manually update an LG device’s firmware using a PC. This method of manual updates is beneficial when the OTA update method fails, or if the user simply prefers to install updates manually.
Pros:
Alternative update method if OTA is unavailable.
Allows use of firmware updates to work with the user to backup.
Cons:
Require a PC and LG Bridge software.
Manual may be somewhat involved for some users.
3. Custom ROMs and Firmware
An advanced user may install custom ROMs or firmware that are third-party, unofficial versions of the OS. These ROMs offer further feature additions and customizations.
Pros:
Allows for customization and features that may never appear in official updates.
Enables users to land on different versions of the Android operating system.
Cons:
The possibility of voiding the warranty of your device.
May cause instability or compatibility issues.
How to Update LG Velvet via Firmware Update
The installation of a firmware update is quite easy, but performing it in the wrong way might cause potential issues. Here is a detailed set of instructions on performing a firmware update on your LG Velvet:
Steps for OTA Firmware Update
Backup All Important Data:
Before starting the update, back up all important data to be sure that none will be lost during the update process. You could use the LG backup tool or any third-party backup tool.
Charge Your Device Battery to a Minimum of 50%:
The battery of your device should have a minimum charge level of 50% before you initiate the update. In this case, any interruption arising in the middle of the update will be prevented.
Connect to Wi-Fi:
Make sure your handset is connected to a Wi-Fi network to avoid any data charges and to have a smooth download.
Open Settings:
Access the “Settings” app on your LG Velvet.
Software Update:
Go to “System” or “About phone” and then tap on “Software update” or “System update.”
Check for Updates:
Tap on “Check for updates,” and wait while the device searches for available updates.
Download and Install:
Once an update is available, follow the provided on-screen instructions to download and install it. The device might reboot several times during the installation.
Complete the Installation:
After installation, with the updates available, your device will restart with new firmware.
How to Manually Update Through LG Bridge
LG Bridge Download and Installation:
Download LG Bridge from the official LG website and then install it on your PC.
Connect Your Device:
Connect your LG Velvet to your PC via USB cable.
Launch LG Bridge:
In your PC, launch the LG Bridge application.
Check for Updates:
Go to the “Software Update” section of LG Bridge and check for available updates.
Download and Install:
If updates are available, follow the on-screen procedure for downloading and installing them onto your device.
Complete the Update:
Once updated, your phone will restart with the new firmware.
Common Issues and Solutions Related to Updating the Firmware
Sometimes issues are encountered during the firmware update. Here are some of common ones with their solutions:
1. Update Failed or Stuck
Issue:
The update fails or gets stuck in the middle of the installation.
Solution:
Restart the device and attempt the update again. Ensure that you are connected to an active Wi-Fi connection and that the battery level is sufficient. If the problem persists, do a factory reset and perform the update again.
2. Device Not Recognized by PC (Manual Update)
Issue:
Your LG Velvet is not recognized on your PC when attempting a manual update via LG Bridge.
Solution:
Make sure to check the USB connection; try another USB port or cable. Make sure LG Bridge is fully updated and installed correctly. If necessary, restart the PC and the device.
3. Boot Loop or Unresponsive Device
Issue:
The device might enter a boot loop or be unresponsive after the update.
Solution:
Try booting into recovery mode, and performing a factory reset. If the issue continues, you need to contact LG customer support or find a partner center for the next course of action.
4. Update Not Available
Issue:
The firmware update is yetto-be available on your device.
Solution:
Firmware updates are generally given out in stages. Check for updates regularly and ensure that your device is on a Wi-Fi network that is stable. If the update is still not available, you probably want to reach out to LG support for more information.
Best Practices for a Smooth Firmware Update Experience
To have an errorless and smooth process, make sure to adhere to these best practices during the firmware update:
Backup Your Data:
Always back up your important data before performing an update to avoid losing anything.
Charge Your Device:
Ensure that your device has been fully charged or has been connected to a power source to avoid interruptions during the update.
Ensure Stable Internet Connection:
A dependable Wi-Fi connection is essential to prevent interruption while downloading the updates.
Follow Instructions Carefully:
Always follow the onscreen instructions during the update process, so there are no errors.
Update Regularly:
Check for updates from time to time and install them; this will keep your device secured, healthy, and filled with features.
Can Always Ask Support:
So, if you face an issue or have queries, do not hesitate to ask LG customer support-called into assistance.
Conclusion
Firmware updates maintain and enhance the acting ability of your LG Velvet. And if you know how to check, perform, and troubleshoot firmware updates, you are assured that your device is fully up-to-date, secure, and usable. Whatever methods you go for an OTA update, a manual update through LG Bridge, or custom firmware, best practices and solving common issues will smoothen your update experience. The frequent updates will make sure that your LG Velvet runs at the best and adds the latest features and improvements from LG.