How To Update Minecraft Bedrock: Fix Common Issues And Get The Latest Version

Effie Streich 20 Aug 2025

Getting the newest features and playing with friends often means you need to update Minecraft Bedrock. It's a big part of enjoying the game, as new content, fixes, and sometimes even major changes come with each new version. When your game isn't current, you might find yourself unable to join your favorite realms or access cool new blocks and creatures, which is that a bit frustrating.

Many players, you know, run into situations where their game just won't update, or they keep seeing messages telling them to get the latest version even after trying. Maybe your launcher stops working, or the Microsoft Store seems to be holding back the new files. It's a common worry, especially when everyone else is already building with the fresh additions, so.

This guide, then, will walk you through how to update Minecraft Bedrock across different platforms, and more importantly, how to deal with those tricky moments when things don't go as planned. We'll look at the usual ways to get your game current and some specific steps to try if you're stuck, like your realm is updated to a version you can't reach.

Why Keeping Your Game Current Matters
General Ways to Update Minecraft Bedrock
Troubleshooting Common Update Problems on Windows PC
Managing Console Updates and Older Versions
Helpful Tips for Smooth Updates
Frequently Asked Questions

Why Keeping Your Game Current Matters

Staying up-to-date with Minecraft Bedrock is, actually, pretty important for a few good reasons. For one, new versions bring fresh content. Think about new creatures, building blocks, or even whole new areas to discover. These additions make the game feel exciting and give you more ways to express your creativity, you know.

Another big reason is playing with others. If your friends have the newest version and you don't, you might find yourself unable to join their worlds or realms. As someone mentioned, they were "kicked from the realm because" their game wasn't updated, which is a very common scenario. To keep building and adventuring together, everyone needs to be on the same page, version-wise, essentially.

Updates also fix problems. Game developers work hard to smooth out glitches and make the game run better. Sometimes, an older version might have a bug that causes crashes or strange behavior, and a new update usually sorts these things out. So, keeping your game current often means a more stable and enjoyable playtime, to be honest.

General Ways to Update Minecraft Bedrock

The way you update Minecraft Bedrock usually depends on where you play it. Most systems are designed to make this process fairly simple, sometimes even automatic. Knowing the standard method for your device is, then, the first step.

Updating on Windows PC

For Windows users, the Microsoft Store is your primary spot for getting game updates. When a new version of Minecraft Bedrock becomes available, the Store should, typically, recognize it. Here's how it generally works:

Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows computer.
Look for the "Library" icon or "Downloads and updates" section. It's usually in the bottom left or top right corner, depending on your Store version, so.
Click on "Get updates" or "Check for updates." This makes the Store look for any new software versions for your installed apps, including Minecraft.
If an update for Minecraft Bedrock is available, it should appear in the list and begin downloading automatically, or you might need to click a "Download" button next to it.

Once the download finishes, the game usually updates itself. You might, then, need to restart the Minecraft Launcher or the game itself to see the changes. This is, you know, the most straightforward way.

Updating on Consoles

Console players (like Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch) usually find that their systems handle game updates pretty well. Most consoles are set up to download new game versions automatically, especially if the console is in a low-power rest mode. Here’s a basic run-through:

Make sure your console is connected to the internet.
If automatic updates are turned on (which they often are by default), your console might download and install the update while it's in standby mode or when you turn it on.
If you want to check manually, highlight the Minecraft game icon on your console's home screen.
Press the "Options" or "Menu" button (it varies by console).
Look for an option like "Check for Update" or "Manage Game and Add-ons." If a new version is out, you'll see it there and can start the download, so.

Sometimes, the console might prompt you to update when you try to start the game, especially if a new version is required to play online. This is, actually, a good way to know if you're behind.

Updating on Mobile Devices

For those playing Minecraft Bedrock on phones or tablets, the process is quite similar to other mobile apps. You'll use your device's app store:

Open the Google Play Store (for Android) or the Apple App Store (for iOS).
Search for "Minecraft" or go to your "Apps" or "Games" section within the store.
Look for Minecraft in your list of installed apps. If an update is available, you'll see an "Update" button next to it.
Tap the "Update" button to start the download and installation.

Just like with consoles, many mobile devices have settings for automatic app updates. Turning this on can save you the trouble of checking manually, which is pretty convenient, really.

Troubleshooting Common Update Problems on Windows PC

Even with these general steps, sometimes things don't quite work out. Many players, myself included, have hit snags when trying to update. My text shows that people have tried "searching for an answer online, updated MC via Windows Store, searched forums, and even submitted a ticket to Minecraft support." These issues are, then, very real and common. Here are some specific things to try, especially for Windows PC users, since that's where many of the problems seem to pop up.

When the Update Isn't Showing in the Microsoft Store

One of the most reported problems is when "your bedrock update isn’t showing in the Windows Store." It's like the Store doesn't even know there's a new version out. This can be pretty puzzling, especially when you know an update has been released. Here's what you can do:

Clear the Store Cache: Sometimes the Microsoft Store's temporary files get a bit mixed up. You can clear its cache by pressing the Windows key + R, typing wsreset.exe, and then pressing Enter. A blank command prompt window will open for a few moments, and then the Store should relaunch. This, usually, helps refresh its view.
Check for Windows Updates: Make sure your Windows operating system itself is fully updated. Sometimes, game updates rely on underlying system improvements. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click "Check for updates," you know.
Restart Your Computer: It sounds simple, but a full system restart can often fix many temporary glitches that prevent apps from updating correctly. It's, honestly, a good first step for many computer problems.

These steps help to make sure your system and the Store are in good working order, which is pretty much essential for smooth updates.

Dealing with Microsoft Store Account Issues

Another common piece of advice, as mentioned in my text, is to "Log out of your Microsoft Store account and log back in." This can often kick-start the Store into recognizing new updates. Your account ties into your game licenses and update eligibility, so a fresh login can sometimes resolve things. Here's how:

Open the Microsoft Store app.
Click on your profile picture or account icon in the top right corner.
Select "Sign out."
Close the Microsoft Store completely.
Reopen the Microsoft Store.
Click on the profile picture again and select "Sign in," then choose your account or enter your details.

After logging back in, try checking for updates again in your Library. This process, basically, refreshes your account's connection to the Store's services, which can be surprisingly effective.

Using the Apps Troubleshooter

Windows has built-in tools to help fix problems with apps, and these can be very useful for update issues. My text suggests, "Use the troubleshooter for apps by going to..." and while it doesn't finish the sentence, the path is usually through Windows Settings. Here's how to find it:

Go to your Windows Settings (you can find it by searching for "Settings" in the Start Menu).
Click on "Update & Security" (or "System" then "Troubleshoot" on newer Windows versions).
Select "Troubleshoot" from the left-hand menu.
Click on "Additional troubleshooters" or "Other troubleshooters."
Look for "Windows Store Apps" or "Microsoft Store Apps" in the list and run the troubleshooter.

The troubleshooter will, then, try to find and fix common problems that stop apps from working or updating correctly. It might, for instance, reset some settings or clear a cache that's causing trouble, which is pretty handy, you know.

Launcher Update Stuck or "Unable to Update" Message

Sometimes, the problem isn't the game itself, but the Minecraft Launcher. As one user noted, "When running Minecraft Launcher, the update launcher bar stops somewhere around 90%, and an unable to update the Microsoft native launcher message box pops." This is a specific issue with the launcher's own update process. Here's what you can try if this happens:

Reinstall the Launcher: If the launcher itself is stuck, a fresh installation can often clear things up. Uninstall the Minecraft Launcher from your "Apps & features" in Windows Settings, then download and install it again from the Microsoft Store or the official Minecraft website. This usually gives you a clean, working launcher.
Check Your Internet Connection: While it seems obvious, a spotty internet connection can cause downloads to stall. Make sure your connection is stable and fast enough, you know.
Disable Antivirus/Firewall (Temporarily): Very occasionally, security software can interfere with game updates. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall, then attempt the launcher update again. Remember to turn your security software back on immediately afterward, though, for safety, pretty much.

These steps aim to resolve issues specific to the launcher, which is, essentially, the gateway to your game.

Realm Version Mismatch: "I'm Stuck on an Older Version!"

This is a particularly frustrating problem: "I'm currently stuck on 1.20.41 and can't get into my realm b/c the realm is updated to 1.20.50." This happens when the realm server has updated to a newer version than your local game client. The game won't let you join because the versions don't match. If you've tried all the general update steps and the Microsoft Store still isn't showing the update, here are some thoughts:

Patience, Sometimes: As one user asked, "Do I have to wait?" Sometimes, yes, you do. There can be delays in updates rolling out to all regions or specific platforms. If a major update just came out, it might take a little while for it to reach everyone, so.
Check Official Announcements: Follow Minecraft's official social media channels or website. They often announce update rollout schedules or any known delays. If there's a widespread issue, they'll usually talk about it there, you know.
Consider a Reinstall (as a last resort): If absolutely nothing else works, and you've backed up your worlds, uninstalling and reinstalling Minecraft Bedrock might force it to download the latest version. This is a big step, though, and should only be done if you're sure your worlds are safe, pretty much.

This situation is tough because it often relies on factors outside your direct control, like the update rollout itself. It's a bit like waiting for a delivery, honestly.

Blocked Updates Due to Game Bugs

In some rare but serious cases, an update might be temporarily pulled or blocked by the developers themselves. My text mentions, "The update for the Windows version of Minecraft Bedrock Edition has been blocked until further notice due to a bug that was deleting some users worlds." This is a very important piece of information. If you hear about an update being blocked:

Don't Force It: If an update is known to cause problems, trying to force it can lead to bigger issues, like losing your game progress. It's better to wait.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on official Minecraft announcements. They will tell you when the bug is fixed and when the update is safe to download again.
Understand the Reason: Developers block updates like this to protect players. Losing worlds is a major issue, so they'd rather pause the update than let more people experience that problem, which is very understandable, really.

This situation is, then, an exception to the rule of always trying to get the newest version. Sometimes, waiting is the safest option.

Managing Console Updates and Older Versions

Console players sometimes have different concerns. One user asked, "Is it possible to disable the newest console update and play the version before it, I can not stand tu31 or whatever you want to call it, The worlds just generate as 90% ocean." This highlights a desire to stick with an older, preferred version. However, with most modern games and consoles, going back to an older version is, generally, not possible for several reasons:

Online Play Requirements: To play online, all players must be on the same game version. Allowing older versions would create compatibility nightmares for servers and multiplayer experiences, you know.
Developer Support: Developers typically only support the latest version of their games. Older versions don't receive bug fixes or new content.
System Integration: Console operating systems are designed to manage game files in a way that often makes reverting to previous versions difficult or impossible without significant system manipulation, which is not recommended.

While the desire to avoid changes you don't like is totally valid, game updates, especially for popular online titles like Minecraft Bedrock, are usually mandatory for continued play. The "90% ocean" world generation issue sounds like a specific bug that would likely be addressed in subsequent updates, rather than a permanent feature of a new version, so.

Helpful Tips for Smooth Updates

To make your update experience as smooth as possible, there are a few general practices you can adopt, you know. These steps can help prevent many of the common headaches players run into.

Keep Your Operating System Current: Whether you're on Windows, a console, or mobile, make sure your device's operating system is fully updated. Game updates often rely on the latest system software to work correctly.
Ensure a Stable Internet Connection: Large game updates need a good, consistent internet connection. If your connection is spotty, downloads might fail or get corrupted.
Free Up Storage Space: Updates, especially big ones, need enough free space on your device to download and install. Check your storage and clear out old files or apps if needed.
Back Up Your Worlds: This is a really important one. Before any major update, it's a very good idea to back up your Minecraft worlds. This way, if something goes wrong (like the "bug that was deleting some users worlds" mentioned in my text), you won't lose all your hard work. You can usually export worlds from within the game itself, or copy the game files on PC, pretty much.
Restart Your Device Regularly: A simple restart can often clear temporary issues that might be blocking updates. It's a quick fix that often works wonders.
Check Official Channels for News: If you're having trouble, look at the official Minecraft website, forums, or social media accounts. They often post about known issues, solutions, or delayed updates. This is where you'd find out if an update has been "blocked until further notice," for instance.

Following these tips can, in a way, make the whole update process less of a chore and more of a routine part of enjoying your game, you know. Learn more about game maintenance and troubleshooting on our site for more helpful advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people ask about updating Minecraft Bedrock:

Why is my Minecraft Bedrock not updating on Windows 10/11?

There are several reasons your Minecraft Bedrock might not update on Windows. It could be that the Microsoft Store isn't showing the update, perhaps due to a cache problem or an account issue. Your game launcher might also be stuck, or Windows itself might need an update. In some cases, like one mentioned, the update could be temporarily blocked by developers due to a bug that was deleting worlds. Trying to log out and back into your Microsoft Store account, running the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter, or even reinstalling the launcher can often help. You know, it's usually one of these things.

How do I force a Minecraft Bedrock update?

You can't really "force" an update beyond checking for it in the official app stores. For Windows, go to the Microsoft Store, open your Library, and click "Get updates." On consoles, highlight the game and choose "Check for Update." For mobile, look for Minecraft in your device's app store and tap "Update." If the update isn't appearing, it's usually because it hasn't rolled out to your region yet, or there's a system-level issue preventing its detection, which is why troubleshooting steps are important. Basically, you're trying to prompt the system to recognize the update, rather than making it appear out of nowhere.

Can I play an older version of Minecraft Bedrock if I don't like the new update?

Generally, no. For Minecraft Bedrock, especially if you want to play online or join realms, you need to be on the latest version. Game developers typically do not support older versions for online play, and console/mobile platforms often make it very difficult or impossible to revert to previous game builds. While some players might prefer an older version due to changes they dislike (like "worlds just generate as 90% ocean"), staying current is usually required for a full and connected experience. It's pretty much a standard practice in modern gaming, you know, to keep everyone on the same page.

Hopefully, with these steps and insights, you can get your Minecraft Bedrock updated and back to building, exploring, and playing with your friends. It's, then, all about getting back to the fun stuff in the newest versions. You can find more specific guides and tips to keep your game running smoothly by visiting this page .

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