Australian consumers are increasingly sceptical of software updates, with new research revealing widespread concerns that updates may slow devices, complicate everyday tasks or push users towards paid upgrades.

A study commissioned by UserTesting and conducted by Talker Research among 1,000 Australian adults found that 26% have delayed or avoided software updates because they feared the update would slow their device or make it unusable to the point of replacement.

More than half of Australians surveyed (55%) believe technology companies release software updates too frequently, while 53% believe apps and software are deliberately made worse over time to encourage users to pay for upgrades or premium features.

The research also highlighted a perceived generational divide, with 61% of Australians believing software updates are designed to make sense only to younger users.

Despite concerns about updates, security remains a major driver of adoption.

The study found 77% of Australians would install an update if it improved security while making only minor design changes.

UserTesting Vice President of Solution Marketing Bobby Meixner said companies risk damaging customer trust if updates fail to deliver clear value.

“We’re entering an era where AI is going to compress product cycles dramatically, which means more updates, more changes, and more chances to either build or break trust with your customers,” Meixner said.

The study also found 47% of Australians become frustrated when software updates require additional steps to complete everyday tasks, while 37% feel anxious before updating and 22% report feeling annoyed.

The research surveyed 4,000 adults across Australia, the US and the UK between April 8 and April 14, 2026.