An outdated streaming app is one of the most common, and most overlooked, causes of crashes, missing features, and playback problems. Most platforms handle updates automatically by default, but it’s worth understanding how to check and manage this manually across every major device.
Why Keeping Apps Updated Matters
Streaming apps update frequently to patch bugs, adjust to changes in the underlying streaming protocols and DRM systems, and roll out new features and interface changes. An app running an outdated version can experience anything from minor visual glitches to complete failure to launch, particularly after a platform-wide backend change on the provider’s end that a very old app version isn’t equipped to handle.
Updating Apps on Fire TV
Fire TV apps update automatically by default. To check manually, go to Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications, select the app in question, and choose Update if one is available. You can also confirm auto-updates are enabled under Settings > Applications > Appstore > Automatic Updates.
Updating Apps on Android TV and Google TV
Open the Google Play Store, select your profile icon, then Manage apps and device, where you’ll see a list of apps with pending updates. Auto-updates can be toggled under Play Store > Settings > Network preferences > Auto-update apps.
Updating Apps on Apple TV
Apple TV updates apps automatically by default. To check manually, open the App Store app, select your profile, and scroll to see recently updated apps or any pending updates. Automatic updates can be toggled under Settings > Apps.
Updating Apps on Roku
Roku devices generally update apps (called “channels” on Roku) automatically overnight. To force an immediate check, go to Settings > System > System update, and note that individual channel updates typically happen in the background without a dedicated manual-check menu.
Updating Apps on Smart TVs
Built-in smart TV apps update through the TV’s own app store interface, generally under a “My Apps” or similar section in the settings menu. Update frequency and manual-check availability vary meaningfully by TV brand and platform, so consult your specific TV’s support documentation if you can’t locate the option.
Updating Apps on Windows and Mac
Apps installed through the Microsoft Store or Mac App Store update automatically by default, checkable manually within each respective store app. Browser-based streaming doesn’t require app updates at all, since the service is delivered fresh through the browser each time, though keeping your browser itself updated is equally important for compatibility and security.
What to Do If an App Won’t Update
If an app update repeatedly fails, try restarting the device first, then confirm there’s sufficient storage space available, since insufficient storage is a common and often overlooked cause of failed updates. If problems persist, uninstalling and reinstalling the app entirely typically resolves it, though this requires signing back into your account afterward. Our related troubleshooting guide on fixing an app that won’t load covers additional steps if issues continue after updating.
Updating the Device’s Operating System, Not Just Apps
Beyond individual app updates, it’s worth periodically checking for and installing operating system updates for the streaming device or smart TV itself, since some app compatibility issues are actually resolved at the OS level rather than the individual app level. This is usually found under a general “About” or “System” section in the device’s main settings menu.
How to Tell If an Outdated App Is Causing a Specific Problem
If a streaming app suddenly stops working correctly after a provider announces a broader platform change or redesign, an outdated local app version is a strong suspect, particularly if the issue affects only that one app while others continue working normally. Checking the app’s version number against its official release notes or support page, where available, can confirm whether you’re running a current build before pursuing other troubleshooting steps.
Managing Updates on a Limited or Metered Internet Connection
If your internet connection has a data cap, be aware that automatic app updates consume bandwidth in the background, sometimes at inconvenient times. Most platforms allow scheduling updates to occur only over Wi-Fi rather than cellular data on mobile devices, and some also allow limiting background update timing on smart TVs and streaming boxes under their respective network or data usage settings.
Setting Reminders for Devices That Don’t Auto-Update Reliably
A small number of older devices or less common platforms don’t support fully automatic updates, requiring a periodic manual check instead. If you know your specific device falls into this category, setting a recurring monthly reminder to check for app and system updates manually is a simple habit that prevents most update-related issues before they start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do streaming apps need to be updated so often?
Apps update frequently to patch bugs, adapt to changes in underlying streaming and security protocols, and add new features, all of which require the app to stay current with the provider’s backend systems.
Will updating a streaming app delete my saved data or login?
No, standard app updates preserve your login and saved preferences. A full uninstall and reinstall, however, typically does require signing back in.
Can outdated apps cause security risks?
Yes, outdated apps can miss important security patches, making them more vulnerable to potential exploits compared to a fully updated version.
How do I know if auto-updates are turned on for my device?
Check the app store or settings menu specific to your platform — Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, and Roku all include a toggle for automatic app updates within their respective app store settings.
Conclusion
Keeping streaming apps updated is one of the simplest, most overlooked maintenance tasks for a smooth streaming experience, and most platforms handle it automatically once configured correctly. Periodically checking manually, particularly when troubleshooting an unexplained issue, remains a worthwhile habit. If an app continues misbehaving after confirming it’s fully updated, see our guide on fixing crashing streaming apps for further steps.