Purpose Statement
This article explains how to enable automatic app updates on an Android device to ensure the First Due Mobile Response App stays current with the latest features, improvements, and bug fixes. Keeping auto updates enabled helps provide a reliable and optimized experience for field users.
Background Information
The First Due Android Mobile Response App is regularly updated to introduce enhancements, performance improvements, and critical fixes. The Google Play Store includes a built-in setting that allows apps to update automatically without requiring manual intervention from the user.
Auto updates are especially important for Fire and EMS personnel, as they help ensure compatibility with backend updates, reduce troubleshooting issues in the field, and minimize downtime caused by outdated app versions.
Prerequisites:
- An Android device
- Access to the Google Play Store
- The First Due Mobile Response App installed
- An active Google account with Google Play Store access
Required Permissions
- Admin > Allow mobile app sign in: Allows user to sign into the Mobile App
- Admin > Allow Offline Sign in: Allows user to sign into the Mobile App while Offline
Video
Step-by-Step Guide (First Due App Only)
Step 1: Access the Android Home Screen
- Return to the Android Home Screen. Then locate and select the Google Play Store app on the device.
Step 2: Navigate to First Due
- Search for First Due Mobile Response App in the Google Play Store.
- The First Due App will be selected and appear in the right side window
Step 3: Enable Auto Update
- Select the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner.
- Select Enable auto update.
When enabled, Android will automatically download and install updates for the First Due Mobile Response App as they are released.
Step-by-Step Guide (All Apps)
Open the Google Play Store
On the Android device, open the Google Play Store.
Open Your Profile
Tap your profile picture in the upper-right corner.
Open Settings
Scroll down and select Settings.
Open Network Preferences
Select Network preferences.
Select Auto-Update Apps
Tap Auto-update apps.
Choose an Update Preference
Select the desired automatic update option. Depending on the Android device and Google Play Store version, available options may include:
updating apps using Wi-Fi or mobile data,
using a limited amount of mobile data,
using Wi-Fi only,
or not automatically updating apps.
Confirm the Setting
Save or confirm the selected option if prompted. The selected preference will apply to automatic app updates on the Android device.
Best Practices
Do’s
- Do keep Enable auto update selected on all department-issued Android devices.
- Do connect devices to Wi-Fi regularly to allow updates to download automatically.
- Do verify updates are installed after major First Due feature releases.
Don’ts
- Don’t disable automatic updates unless directed by IT or department policy.
- Don’t rely on outdated app versions during emergency response operations.
Tips & Recommendations
- Enable automatic updates to help ensure the latest First Due version is installed.
- Encourage field users to restart their devices periodically to ensure updates are fully applied.
- Departments with managed devices should align this setting with their Mobile Device Management (MDM) policies.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q. The First Due app is not updating automatically. What should I check?
A. Confirm that Enable auto update is selected for First Due in the Google Play Store and that the device has an active internet connection.
Q. Do I need to open the Google Play Store to update First Due?
A. No. When auto updates are enabled, updates install automatically.
Q. Will automatic updates affect app data or settings?
A. No. Updates do not remove user data or configuration within the First Due app.
Q. Can departments force this setting on devices?
A. Yes. Departments using an MDM solution can enforce auto-update behavior across managed devices.