Easy method to check for plugin updates?

[Sovereign Grace Singles]

Is there a way for plugin updates to be checked to see whether new releases have become available like applications?

[Nathan Explosion]

If the developer has used the 'Update check URL' in their plugin/application:

then the check is performed whenever the system performs its own update checks.....or forced by yourself:

...and then you will end up with:

However, if that setting hasn't been used then the 'easy' way is not available...you have to go and check the listing and so on.