The difference between "can't update" and "can't be updated" lies in the focus of the action and the subject performing it. 1. "Can't update": This means the subject is unable to perform the action of updating something. The focus is on the subject's inability to take action. * Example: "I can't update the software." (I am unable to do the updating.) 2. "Can't be updated": This means that the thing in question cannot undergo the action of being updated. The focus is on the thing itself, which is not capable of being updated. * Example: "The software can't be updated." (The software itself cannot be updated.) In summary: * "Can't update" = The subject can't perform the action. * "Can't be updated" = The object can't undergo the action.

Can't update colloquially in daily speaking, means something is broken. You tried to update the software, but the computer screen froze. Can't be updated implies that whatever needs to be updated is no longer available or is (deprecated) the supplier , manufacturer or producer no longer makes the product nor does it any longer offer servicing renewals or spare parts. Can't update something is broken or preventing the update. Can't be updated = impossible to update, usually because of one of the reasons outline above.

The phrases "can't update" and "can't be updated" have different meanings because of how the subject and verb are structured. One is in the active voice, and the other is in the passive voice. "Can't update" (Active Voice) This means that someone or something is unable to carry out the update. The subject—the person or thing responsible for updating—is either mentioned or understood from the context. "Can't be updated" (Passive Voice) This means that an update isn't possible, even if someone tries. Here, the focus is on the thing that needs updating, rather than the person or system attempting to update it.

The difference lies in who or what is doing the action: "Can't update" → Someone is unable to perform the update. Example: "I can't update my phone because I don’t have enough storage." This means you (or whoever is responsible) are unable to update something. "Can't be updated" → The thing is unable to be updated. Example: "This app can't be updated because it’s no longer supported." This means the update is not possible, regardless of who tries. So, "can't update" focuses on the person’s ability, while "can't be updated" focuses on whether the update is even possible.