The Setting Device to Auto-Update process allows organizations to configure their Android handheld devices to automatically download and install application updates. Its primary purpose is to ensure that the legacy OPS-COM Parking Enforcement app, along with other critical device software, remains on the latest version without requiring manual intervention from field staff. This article is intended for OPS-COM administrators and IT personnel responsible for provisioning enforcement devices.
## Setup and Configuration This configuration is performed directly within the native Google Play Store on the Android operating system. It does not require any backend adjustments within the OPS-COM administrative portal. **Admin Side:** Administrators configuring the field devices prior to deployment should ensure the device is connected to a stable network and logged into an active Google account to access the Play Store settings. **User Side (Enforcement Staff):** Generally, field officers do not need to configure this setting if the device was pre-provisioned by administration. If manual configuration is required in the field, follow the steps below. ## Using this Feature Administrators interact with the native Google Play Store settings to dictate how the device handles application updates. ### Configuring Auto-Update Settings 1. Open the **Google Play Store** application on the handheld device. 2. Tap the **Menu** icon (represented by three horizontal lines) located in the top-left corner of the screen. 3. Tap **Settings** from the slide-out menu. 4. Tap **Auto-update apps** to open the configuration prompt. 5. Select **Auto-update apps at any time** to enable automatic updates, or select **Do not auto-update apps** to strictly disable the automatic updating process.**Data Charges and Connectivity** When selecting the option to update apps at any time, be aware that the device will utilize whatever network connection is currently active. If the device is not on Wi-Fi, cellular data charges may apply based on your organization's mobile carrier plan.
--- ## Best Practices and Considerations - **Maintain up-to-date software:** **Organizations should establish a business rule to keep auto-updates enabled whenever possible.** Allowing the device to update automatically ensures field officers always benefit from the latest bug fixes, security patches, and feature enhancements for the OPS-COM application. - **Monitor cellular data usage:** **If your organization uses strict or limited cellular data plans, consider using the Wi-Fi only update option if available on your device's Android version.** This prevents large app updates from exhausting your monthly cellular data allowance while officers are actively patrolling.