I recently downloaded the apk that just came out for AM 3.3.12. I have never recieved an update for the market and was unaware there was another version of it. Do they usually push those updates to your phone or is it typical to update manually through apk files?

Android Market will automatically update to the latest version. You don't have to download the APK or do something specific in this regard. However, it make take up a few weeks for it to hit your device. Now... If you don't feel like waiting a few weeks for it, you can install like a normal app using the APK.

Android Market v3.3.12 changelog:

- Added free songs of the week;
- Designed for Google Music;
- New setting: Auto-update app;
- New setting: Update over Wi-Fi only;
- New setting: Auto-add shortcut;
- Smaller font;
- New app drawer icon;
- Microphone (voice command) button in search menu;
- Star rating chart on app page;
- Minor UI tweak.