What is the process of updating the core software that controls hardware components of mobile devices?

Firmware updates refer specifically to the process of updating the core software that controls hardware components in mobile devices. Firmware is embedded software that is closely tied to the hardware; it provides the necessary control, monitoring, and management functions for the hardware components. These updates can enhance functionality, improve performance, fix bugs, or address security vulnerabilities.

In contrast, system updates generally relate to the overall operating system of the device, which may include various applications and utilities beyond just the core hardware management software. Application updates involve changes or improvements to individual software applications installed on the device, addressing enhancements, new features, or security patches for those applications rather than for the foundational software layer. Software patches typically involve small updates designed to fix specific issues or vulnerabilities within applications or the operating system as a whole, rather than the core firmware that directly manages hardware operations. Therefore, the option that explicitly deals with updates to the low-level software controlling hardware is identified correctly as firmware updates.