need updating vs need updates

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Need updating' is used when something requires a general update or revision. 'Need updates' is used when specific updates are required.

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Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: October 27, 2024 • 11906 views

need updating

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when something requires a general update or revision. It indicates that a particular item, information, or system needs to be brought up to date.

Examples:

The software on my computer needs updating.
The policy manual needs updating to reflect the new regulations.
The website needs updating to improve its functionality.

Show examples from the web [+]

Knowledge-based and service-based economies require different skills from traditional industries; skills which also constantly need updating in the face of technological change and innovation.
The DriverScanner program makes a report with all the drivers that need updating... download now»»»» Free download SlimDrivers Free!
I have in mind the Europa 2000 Plus study referred to by the rapporteur, though it does of course need updating.
It is theoretically still possible that the extension will need updating if the functionality is modified by Google in a way that breaks it.
actions in support of Member States' policies and initiatives to equip with appropriate skills those at a disadvantage in the labour market, particularly those young people who have no qualifications or people whose qualifications need updating,
The rooms are clean but need updating.
SlimDrivers examines the computer and detects missing or that need updating drivers.
Park structures such as visitor centers and employee housing also need updating to meet increasing demands.
While the proposal does not affect this process, MEPs reminded the Commission that the guidelines need updating.
They need updating, they need streamlining.
I guess that book really does need updating.
The sensor does not need updating, whether for new banknotes new or false.
He thought that since some version changes in the English wml files are merely cosmetic, the translations may not need updating.
Okay, yes the rooms need updating, you don't spend much time in your room.
Driver Checker scans and detects all drivers that need updating, the program supports and recognizes the most PC components.
If you change your database system later, only the database abstraction layer will need updating.
We must not forget that knowledge-based economies require different skills from traditional industries, and that these skills constantly need updating in the face of technological change and innovation.
At the same time, DriverEasy detects the drivers that need updating, missing drivers or unknown drivers.
Perhaps some strange electro-gravitational attraction is occuring between the sun and the space craft when it beams its signal towards us. I can easily imagine our textbooks will be revised and plasma theory will need updating.
There's no one person with a broad view of the entire FAQ, no one to notice when certain items need updating or become obsolete entirely, and no one keeping watch for interdependencies between items.

Alternatives:

needs to be updated
requires updating
needs to be revised

need updates

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when specific updates are needed. It indicates that certain pieces of information, software, or content need to be updated.