How to Update TomTom Sat Nav on Android

Updating your TomTom sat nav on Android ensures you have the latest maps, software, and features, which helps improve navigation accuracy, optimize routes, and enhance overall driving safety. Unlike traditional TomTom GPS devices, TomTom apps on Android rely on the app itself for updates rather than physical device firmware. This guide explains step by step how to update your TomTom GPS app on Android, manage maps, and troubleshoot common issues.

Why Updating TomTom on Android Is Important

Keeping your TomTom app updated is crucial for several reasons:

1. Accurate Navigation – Roads, traffic patterns, and points of interest are constantly changing. Updates ensure your maps and routing are current.
2. Improved Performance – Updates often fix bugs, improve app speed, and enhance device compatibility.
3. Access to New Features – Some updates add functionalities like real-time traffic alerts, lane guidance, or improved route planning.
4. Safety – Updated maps include the latest speed limits, speed camera locations, and hazard warnings.

Prerequisites for Updating TomTom on Android

Before starting the update process, make sure you have the following:

• An Android smartphone or tablet with the TomTom GPS app installed.
• A stable internet connection, either Wi-Fi or mobile data.
• Sufficient storage space on your device for new maps and app updates.
• The latest version of the Google Play Store to manage updates efficiently.

Step 1: Check for App Updates

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Tap on your profile icon in the top-right corner and select Manage apps & device.
3. Under Updates available, look for the TomTom app.
4. Tap Update if an update is available.

Updating the app through Google Play ensures you have the latest app features, security patches, and general improvements.

Step 2: Update TomTom Maps

Updating maps on Android is slightly different from updating the app itself. Most TomTom apps allow offline map downloads for regions or countries:

1. Open the TomTom app on your Android device.
2. Navigate to Menu > Settings > Maps.
3. Select the region or country you want to update.
4. Tap Update to download the latest map version.

Depending on your internet speed, map downloads may take a few minutes to several hours, as maps can be large files. Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi to avoid excessive mobile data usage.

Step 3: Enable Automatic Updates

For convenience, you can allow your TomTom app to update automatically:

1. Open Google Play Store, tap your profile, then Settings > Network Preferences > Auto-update apps.
2. Choose Over Wi-Fi only or Over any network, depending on your preference.

This ensures your TomTom app and maps remain current without manual intervention.

Step 4: Free Up Storage Space

Updating the TomTom app and maps may require significant storage:

• Delete old or unused maps.
• Clear cache for the TomTom app under Settings > Apps > TomTom > Storage > Clear cache.
• Move media files or apps to an SD card if available.

Freeing up space prevents installation errors and ensures smoother updates.

Step 5: Backup Important Data

Although updates typically don’t affect saved routes, favorites, or preferences, it’s wise to back up your data:

1. Open the TomTom app and go to Settings > Backup & Restore.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to save your favorites, recent routes, and personal settings to your TomTom account.

Backing up ensures you can restore your data in case of an app crash or failed update.

Step 6: Troubleshoot Update Issues

Even on Android, some issues may arise during updates:

• App not updating – Clear Google Play Store cache or restart your device.
• Map download fails – Ensure sufficient storage, a strong Wi-Fi connection, and no VPN restrictions.
• Device runs slow – Close background apps or restart the device before updating.

Keeping both your Android OS and TomTom app updated minimizes these issues.

Step 7: Verify the Update

After updating the app and maps:

1. Open the TomTom app.
2. Navigate to Menu > Settings > About or Maps.
3. Check the app version and map version to confirm the update was successful.
4. Test navigation by planning a short route to ensure the updated maps and app features work correctly.

Tips for Smooth Updates on Android

• Use Wi-Fi for Large Downloads – Map updates can be several gigabytes. Wi-Fi ensures faster downloads and avoids mobile data charges.
• Regular Updates – Check for updates monthly or enable automatic updates.
• Keep Device Charged – Updates may take time; ensure your Android device has sufficient battery.
• Clear Cache Periodically – Helps prevent installation errors and improves app performance.

Conclusion

Knowing how to update TomTom sat nav on Android keeps your device accurate, safe, and efficient. By following these steps—updating the app, downloading maps, managing storage, backing up data, and troubleshooting—you ensure your TomTom GPS remains fully functional. Regular updates improve navigation reliability, provide access to new features, and keep your driving experience smooth and stress-free.