Update required
Our developers regularly release software updates that improve the security, reliability, and user experience of Proton Mail. Most of these new versions are recommended but not strictly required.
On some occasions, however, we will release versions of our software that are required for all users. A required update means that any older versions of our apps will no longer work, and to continue using our service all users will have to update to the latest version at that time.
This article explains why required updates are necessary and how to complete an update when it is available.
Why we have required updates
We are constantly working to improve the Proton Mail web, mobile, and desktop apps, adding new features and fixing bugs from previous versions.
Many of these improvements are noticeable to users, while some are only apparent in the code that the apps are built on. Apart from this, operating systems and browsers are also being updated and improved.
Over time, these updates can affect the Proton Mail software. This can sometimes mean that the app becomes slower or functions no longer work as expected.
Periodically, we release a version of Proton Mail that contains all the features and fixes up to that time, allowing us to discontinue old and unnecessary things.
These required updates allow us to deliver new features, improvements, and security patches to everyone.
How to update Proton Mail versions
When a required update is available, you will receive a notification telling you that you must update. In the Proton Mail web app, simply refresh the page to get the latest version.
To update the Android app, go to the Play Store and tap your account image (top right of screen). Go to Manage apps and device→Updates available and either tap Update all to update all your apps that updates are available for, or just locate Proton Mail and tap the Update button next to it.
To update the iOS app, go to the App Store and tap your account image (top right of screen). Scroll down to Upcoming automatic updates section and either tap Update All to update all your apps that updates are available for, or just locate Proton Mail and tap the Update button next to it.
To update any of the desktop apps, follow the in-app instructions.