Upgrade Python to Version 3.7 on Ubuntu

Version Check

Run the following command to check the current version of Python installed:

python3 --version

Output:

Python 3.6.9

Download and Install Python 3.7

Update the packages list:

sudo apt update

Install Python 3.7:

sudo apt-get install python3.7 -y

Add Python 3.6 & Python 3.7 to update-alternatives

Add Python 3.6 and Python 3.7 to the update-alternatives system:

sudo update-alternatives --install /usr/bin/python3 python3 /usr/bin/python3.6 1

sudo update-alternatives --install /usr/bin/python3 python3 /usr/bin/python3.7 2

Update Python 3 to Point to Python 3.7

Configure Python 3 to use Python 3.7:

sudo update-alternatives --config python3

Choose the selection number corresponding to Python 3.7.

Alternative: Update Python 3 to Point to Python 3.7

If you prefer a direct symlink update, run the following commands:

sudo rm /usr/bin/python3
sudo ln -s python3.7 /usr/bin/python3

Test the New Version of Python3

Check the new Python 3 version:

python3 -V

Output:

Python 3.7.5

Now you have successfully upgraded Python to version 3.7 on your Ubuntu system. This is particularly useful for accessing the latest features and improvements in Python 3.7.