To turn off automatic app updates on your iPhone, simply go to Settings, tap on the iTunes & App Store, and toggle off the Updates option under Automatic Downloads. Voila! You’ve taken control of your app updates.
After completing this action, your iPhone will no longer automatically download and install app updates. Instead, you’ll have to manually update apps from the App Store whenever you choose.
You can also check out this video about how to turn off automatic app updates on iPhone for more on this topic.
Introduction
We’ve all been there – you’re in the middle of something important when suddenly, your phone decides it’s the perfect time to update a bunch of apps. Or maybe you’re on a limited data plan and you want to ensure that updates don’t eat up your data allowance. Whatever the reason might be, knowing how to turn off automatic app updates on your iPhone can be a handy trick.
This article is relevant to any iPhone user who wants to manage their app updates manually, ensuring they have control over what’s updated and when. Not only does it free you up from unexpected interruptions, but it also makes sure you’re not using up your mobile data without realizing it. Plus, let’s be honest, sometimes those updates come with changes we’re not too thrilled about. Taking control of when and how these updates occur can save you from a lot of frustration.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Turn Off Automatic App Updates on iPhone
The following steps will help you disable automatic app updates on your iPhone, giving you freedom over your app management.
Step 1
Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.
This is where all the magic happens. The Settings app is the control center for your device.
Step 2
Scroll down and tap on App Store.
This will take you to where you can manage everything related to app downloads and updates.
Step 3
Toggle off the Updates option under Automatic Downloads.
This is the final step. Once you toggle this off, automatic updates will be a thing of the past.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Saves Data | Turning off automatic updates can save on your data usage, especially if you’re not on an unlimited plan. Apps can be quite large, and updating them over a cellular network can gobble up data quickly. |
| Control | You have more control over your device and can update apps on your own terms. No more being forced into an update you’re not ready for. |
| Save Battery | Automatic updates can sometimes kick in at inopportune times, like when your battery is low. By managing updates yourself, you can ensure your phone isn’t working overtime when it’s running on fumes. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Time Consuming | Manually updating apps can be time-consuming, especially if you have a lot of them. |
| Forgetfulness | There’s a chance you might forget to update your apps, missing out on important bug fixes or new features. |
| Inconvenient | Automatic updates happen in the background, which can be convenient. Turning them off means you have to remember to go into the App Store and update apps yourself. |
Additional Information
Even though you’ve turned off automatic updates, you’ll still receive notifications when updates are available. This way, you can decide whether to update immediately or wait for a more convenient time. Remember that updates often include important security patches and bug fixes, so it’s a good practice to update your apps regularly.
Another tip is to regularly check the “Updates” tab in the App Store so you can see at a glance which apps need updating. If you ever change your mind and want to enable automatic updates again, just follow the steps above and toggle the Updates option back on. It’s always good to have this knowledge tucked away, just in case you decide that manually updating apps isn’t for you after all.
Summary
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on App Store.
- Toggle off the Updates option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I turn off automatic updates?
Your apps will not update automatically. You’ll have to manually update them from the App Store.
Will I be notified when updates are available?
Yes, you’ll still receive notifications when app updates are available.
Is it easy to turn automatic updates back on?
Absolutely. Just follow the same steps and toggle the Updates option on.
Can I choose which apps update automatically?
No, the automatic updates feature applies to all apps when it’s enabled.
Will my iPhone still update iOS automatically?
Turning off automatic app updates doesn’t affect iOS updates. You can manage those separately in Settings under General > Software Update.
Conclusion
Knowing how to turn off automatic app updates on your iPhone is a simple yet powerful skill. It puts you in control of your app management and ensures that updates happen on your terms. Whether to save data, battery life, or simply to avoid unwelcome changes, taking control of your app updates can make your iPhone experience that much smoother.
Remember, though, to regularly check for updates, as they often contain important security and performance enhancements. Armed with this knowledge, you’re now ready to tackle your app updates like a pro!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.