Managing app updates on your iPhone or iPad is an essential part of controlling how and when your device updates its applications. While automatic updates can be convenient, they may not always be desirable. Some users prefer to manage updates manually to conserve data, ensure app stability, or prevent unexpected changes in app functionality. In this guide, we’ll explain how to disable automatic updates on the App Store, so you can take full control over when and how your apps update.
Why Disable Automatic App Updates?
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand the reasons why you might want to turn off automatic updates:
- Data Conservation: Automatic updates can consume significant amounts of mobile data, especially if you don’t have an unlimited data plan.
- Device Performance: Updates take up device resources, and automatic updates might slow down your iPhone or iPad at inconvenient times.
- App Stability: New updates can introduce bugs or remove features that you rely on, so manually updating allows you to check for user feedback before installing.
- Storage Management: Some updates increase the app size significantly, taking up valuable storage space on your device.
Step-by-Step Guide to Disabling Automatic App Updates
Turning off automatic updates is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps. Follow the instructions below:
- Unlock your iPhone or iPad and open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on “App Store”.
- Under the “Automatic Downloads” section, locate the option labeled “App Updates”.
- Turn off the toggle switch next to “App Updates” to disable automatic updates.
After completing these steps, apps will no longer update automatically. Instead, you’ll need to manually update them when you choose.
Manually Updating Apps When Needed
Now that automatic updates are turned off, you need to update apps manually. Here’s how:
- Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
- Scroll down to the pending updates section.
- Tap “Update All” to update every app at once, or tap the “Update” button next to individual apps.
This gives you complete control over which apps to update and when.
Additional Settings to Consider
Besides disabling automatic app updates, you may want to adjust additional settings for better control over downloads and updates:
Prevent Automatic Updates on Mobile Data
If you want updates to happen automatically but only when connected to Wi-Fi, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > App Store.
- Scroll to the “Cellular Data” section.
- Toggle off the option for “Automatic Downloads” to prevent updates when using mobile data.
This is a useful setting to save on mobile data consumption while still allowing updates over Wi-Fi.
Disable Automatic Downloads for Other Content
In the same “App Store” settings, you can also manage other automatic downloads:
- Disable automatic installation of app purchases made on other devices.
- Prevent automatic downloads of music, books, and audiobooks.
These settings give you even more control over your device’s content management.
Is It Safe to Turn Off Automatic Updates?
Yes, disabling automatic updates is completely safe. However, it’s important to regularly check for updates and install them manually. App updates often include security patches that protect your device from vulnerabilities. If you disable automatic updates, make it a habit to review your pending updates in the App Store at least once a week.
Conclusion
Disabling automatic updates on the App Store gives you greater control over your iPhone or iPad. Whether you’re looking to save mobile data, avoid unexpected app changes, or prevent excessive storage usage, turning off automatic updates allows you to update apps at your convenience. Just remember to manually check for updates regularly to keep your apps running smoothly and securely.
