How to Undo a Software Update on Android (Complete Guide)
Software updates usually improve your Android phone’s performance, security, and features — but sometimes, they can cause problems like battery drain, lag, or app crashes.
If your phone started acting up after a recent update, you might be wondering:
👉 Can I undo a software update on Android?
The short answer is yes, but it requires some care. Let’s explore how you can roll back or uninstall an Android update safely.
📱 Why You Might Want to Undo a Software Update
Before jumping into the process, here are common reasons users want to downgrade:
- 📉 Slower performance after the update
- 🔋 Battery draining faster than before
- ⚠️ App incompatibility issues
- 💾 Storage space problems
- 😡 User interface (UI) changes you dislike
Whatever your reason, it’s important to proceed cautiously, because undoing an update may erase your data or void warranty if done incorrectly.
⚙️ Step-by-Step Methods to Undo a Software Update on Android
There are a few ways to roll back to a previous Android version depending on your device brand and model.
🧩 Method 1: Use Factory Reset (for Minor Updates)
If your device recently installed a small system patch, a factory reset can help restore stability — though it won’t revert the OS version.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → System → Reset options
- Tap Erase all data (factory reset)
- Confirm the process
👉 Note: This removes personal data but keeps your current Android version. Use this only if the update caused performance issues but you don’t need to fully downgrade.
⚡ Method 2: Flash Older Firmware (Full Rollback)
To truly undo a software update, you’ll need to flash an older version of Android firmware manually.
Steps to flash firmware:
- Backup your data (contacts, media, apps).
- Find and download official firmware for your device model from:
- Samsung Firmware Downloader
- XDA Developers
- [OEM official website]
- Enable USB Debugging:
- Go to Settings → About phone → Tap Build number 7 times
- Then open Developer Options → Turn on USB Debugging
- Connect your phone to PC and use software like:
- Odin (for Samsung)
- SP Flash Tool (for MediaTek phones)
- ADB & Fastboot (for Pixel or OnePlus)
- Load the downloaded firmware and click Start/Flash.
Your device will reboot into the older Android version once flashing completes.
👉 Warning: Flashing firmware incorrectly can brick your device. Follow only trusted guides and ensure you use official firmware files.
🧰 Method 3: Use Manufacturer’s Official Rollback Tool
Many Android manufacturers provide rollback or downgrade utilities.
| Brand | Tool / Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Smart Switch / Odin | Works with official firmware |
| OnePlus | Rollback Build Packages | Download from OnePlus website |
| Xiaomi | Mi Flash Tool | Requires unlocked bootloader |
| Google Pixel | ADB Fastboot Commands | Flash previous factory image |
| Oppo / Realme | Rollback Zip Files | Available on support page |
Using these tools ensures the process is safer and warranty-friendly.
🧩 Method 4: Restore from a Nandroid Backup (Advanced Users)
If you previously made a Nandroid backup via custom recovery (like TWRP), you can restore it to revert your phone to the exact state before the update.
Steps:
- Boot into TWRP Recovery
- Go to Backup → Select saved backup → Restore
- Reboot system
This is ideal for rooted phones or advanced users who tinker with ROMs frequently.
⚠️ Important Precautions Before Downgrading
- Backup everything — contacts, photos, WhatsApp, and app data.
- Ensure enough battery (80%+) before flashing.
- Use official tools and firmware only.
- Unlocking the bootloader may erase all data.
- Updates may re-install automatically, so turn off auto-updates once rolled back.
🧩 How to Disable Automatic Updates on Android
To stop future unwanted updates:
- Go to Settings → About phone → Software updates
- Disable Auto Download over Wi-Fi
- On Google Play Store → Tap Profile → Settings → Network preferences → Auto-update apps → Don’t auto-update apps
This gives you full control over what updates get installed.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I uninstall an Android update without a computer?
Not fully. You can only remove minor app updates through Settings, but for OS rollback, a computer is required.
Is it safe to undo a software update?
Yes — if you use official firmware and follow the correct method. However, it may void warranty if done unofficially.
Will I lose my data when downgrading Android?
Yes. Flashing or rolling back always wipes your device, so make a full backup first.
How long does the downgrade process take?
Usually 10–30 minutes depending on firmware size and your PC speed.
Can I downgrade all Android phones?
No. Some devices (especially carrier-locked models) block downgrades for security reasons.
Conclusion
Undoing a software update on Android isn’t impossible — it just takes patience, caution, and the right tools.
If your latest update caused issues, flashing an older version or using official rollback tools can bring your phone back to smooth performance.