How to Update Minecraft (Every Platform)

Guide Java Bedrock

Quick answer: Java updates itself through the launcher: just pick the Latest Release installation and play. Bedrock updates through your device's app store (Microsoft Store, Play Store, App Store or the console's game menu). Servers must be updated separately with the new server JAR.

What you need

Internet connection
The official launcher (Java) or your device's store (Bedrock)
A world backup before big updates (recommended)

Step by step

Java: open the Minecraft Launcher - it downloads new versions automatically. In the Installations tab, the Latest Release installation always points at the newest version.
Java, stay on an old version: create a separate installation pinned to your version (useful for mods and servers that have not updated).
Bedrock on Windows: open the Microsoft Store > Library > Get updates.
Bedrock on mobile: update from the Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS) like any app.
Bedrock on consoles: highlight the game, press the options/menu button and choose Check for Updates - consoles usually auto-update when online.
Servers: the server does not update with your client. Download the new server JAR (Java) or Bedrock server build, stop the server, swap the file and start it again. Clients and server must match versions to play together.
Before updating a world you care about: back it up. Worlds upgraded to a new version usually cannot go back to the old one.

Java vs Bedrock

Java updates live in the launcher; Bedrock updates live in each platform's store. There is no in-game update button on Bedrock.

Versions: Applies to the current release channels. Java snapshots and Bedrock previews are separate opt-in tracks for testing upcoming updates.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my game not updating?

Java: make sure you launch the Latest Release installation, not a pinned old one. Bedrock: stores sometimes hold updates for hours by region - check the store page manually and restart the device.

Will updating break my mods?

Usually yes, temporarily: mods are built per version. Keep a pinned installation on your modded version until your mods update - this is exactly what the Installations tab is for.

My friends updated and I cannot join their world?

Versions must match. Either update to their version or ask them to host on yours. Realms always runs the latest version, so Realms players must stay current.