Updates fix bugs, add features and keep you able to play with friends. Skipping them leads to strange problems: you cannot join a server, an add-on refuses to load or the game crashes after the store silently changes something. This guide explains how to update Minecraft PE on both Android and iOS, what to do before you tap Update and how to handle updates that get stuck.
Why updating matters
- Multiplayer. Players on different versions often cannot join each other.
- Add-ons and worlds. Content is designed for recent versions. Newer packs may not load on old builds.
- Stability and fixes. Updates address crashes and performance issues.
- New features. Seasonal and major releases introduce blocks, mobs and mechanics.
- Security. Staying current keeps the app supported through its official store.
Before you update: protect your worlds
Updates rarely damage worlds, but nothing beats a backup. Do this first:
- Open Minecraft and go to the world list.
- Tap the pencil icon next to an important world.
- Scroll to the bottom and choose the option to export the world.
- Save the exported file somewhere safe, such as cloud storage.
If the world uses a lot of add-ons, note which packs and versions you use. After an update, an add-on might need its own refresh.
Also check that you have enough free storage. Updates can need extra temporary space, sometimes more than the final size. If space is low, see our storage guide.
How to Free Up Storage for Minecraft on Your Phone
How to update on Android
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Tap your profile picture and choose Manage apps and device.
- Under Updates available, look for Minecraft. If it is not there, you may already be on the latest version.
- Tap Update, or open the Minecraft listing and tap Update from there.
- Wait until the progress bar finishes, then open the game.
To make this automatic, open the Minecraft listing in the Play Store, tap the three-dot menu in the top right and enable auto-update. You can also set Wi-Fi-only updates in the Play Store settings under Network preferences, which stops the game from using mobile data.
How to update on iPhone and iPad
- Open the App Store.
- Tap your profile picture at the top right.
- Scroll to the Upcoming Automatic Updates and Available Updates sections.
- Find Minecraft and tap Update.
- When the download completes, open the game.
For automatic updates, open the Settings app, choose App Store and switch on App Updates. If you prefer to update manually before key play sessions, leave it off and check the App Store regularly.
How to confirm which version you have
Inside Minecraft, open Settings and look for an “About” or version display. The location can differ between releases. You can also check the app information in your device settings. Compare it with the version number on the store listing to see if they match.
Beta and preview versions
Some platforms offer opt-in beta or preview builds that give early access to upcoming features. They can be unstable, may use separate worlds and sometimes require different steps to enroll. Beta builds can corrupt worlds or break add-ons, so never use your main world in a preview. For regular players, the standard store version is the best choice.
Troubleshooting stuck or failed updates
The update stays on “Pending” or “Waiting”
Check that you are on a stable connection and that other downloads are not blocking the queue. Pause or cancel them, restart the store app and try again.
“Not enough storage” error
Remove unused apps and large files. Clear the store’s cache on Android through settings. On iOS, offload unused apps from Settings.
The update installs but the game crashes
Restart the phone, then open the game again. If crashes persist, check whether a recently installed add-on or texture pack is the cause by disabling it. As a last resort, reinstall the game from the official store after exporting your worlds.
How to Fix Add-Ons That Won’t Load in Minecraft PE
The store doesn’t show an update, but friends have a newer version
Updates sometimes roll out in stages by region and device. Wait a day or so, then refresh the store. Do not install the newer version from other websites to “jump the queue”.
My add-ons stopped working after the update
The pack may need a newer version to match changes in the game. Check the creator’s page for updates and test with content from the official Marketplace.
Keeping updates safe
- Update only through Google Play or the App Store.
- Ignore pop-ups or websites saying “Update Minecraft now” with a download button, which are often scams.
- Do not install APKs to get a newer version early.
- Keep your device’s operating system updated, since newer game versions may require it.
To understand why unofficial files are risky, see our safety FAQ.
Why Avoid Unofficial Minecraft APKs? Safety FAQ
Making update day painless
- Update at a time when you are on Wi-Fi with a decent battery level.
- Read the release notes in the store listing to see what changed.
- Warn friends or server members so everyone updates together.
- Test your main world briefly on a duplicate before a long session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will updating delete my worlds?
It should not, but accidents happen, so export your key worlds beforehand.
Can I go back to an older version?
Official stores generally do not support downgrades. Avoid unofficial methods.
How often does Minecraft update?
Releases vary, with bigger updates and smaller fixes at different times. Check the store or official announcements.
Do I need to pay for updates?
Normally updates are free for owners of the game. Optional content like Marketplace items is separate.
Conclusion
To update Minecraft PE, open the Play Store or App Store, find Minecraft in the updates list and tap Update, after exporting any worlds you care about. Turn on automatic updates if you want convenience, and keep storage free so installs do not fail. Staying current keeps multiplayer, add-ons and fixes working smoothly.