How to Stop Apps from Updating Automatically (Android & iPhone Guide)
Automatic app updates can be convenient, ensuring your apps are always up to date with the latest features and security patches. However, they can also drain your data, slow down your device, and introduce changes you might not want. If you’d rather control when and how your apps are updated, this guide will show you how to stop apps from updating automatically on both Android and iPhone.
Why You Might Want to Stop Automatic App Updates
Before diving into the steps, here are a few good reasons to disable auto-updates:
- ⚠️ Save mobile data when using a limited plan
- 🕒 Avoid updates at inconvenient times (like during work or travel)
- 📉 Prevent bugs or unwanted changes in app interfaces
- 👀 Review permissions or changelogs before updating
- 📲 Free up storage space by not installing large updates automatically
How to Stop Apps from Updating Automatically on Android
Method 1: Disable Auto Updates in Google Play Store
- Open the Google Play Store
- Tap your profile icon (top right corner)
- Go to Settings > Network preferences
- Tap Auto-update apps
- Choose “Don’t auto-update apps”
- Tap Done
🔒 Now, no apps will update unless you do it manually.
Method 2: Stop Auto Updates for Specific Apps
If you want to stop auto updates for just a few apps:
- Open Google Play Store
- Search for the app (e.g., WhatsApp)
- Tap the three dots (top right of the app page)
- Uncheck “Enable auto update”
🎯 This lets you update important apps manually while disabling updates for others.
How to Stop Apps from Updating Automatically on iPhone (iOS)
Disable Automatic Downloads in iPhone Settings
- Go to Settings
- Scroll down and tap App Store
- Under Automatic Downloads, toggle off “App Updates”
- Also toggle off “Automatic Downloads” under Cellular Data to avoid updates on mobile data.
🔐 This stops the iPhone from updating apps in the background automatically.
Control Updates Manually on iPhone
When you’re ready to update apps:
- Open the App Store
- Tap your profile icon (top right corner)
- Scroll to see available updates
- Tap Update All or update apps one by one
💡 This method gives you full control over when and how apps are updated.
Extra Tips to Manage App Updates
- 📶 Use Wi-Fi only updates if you’re concerned about mobile data.
- ⏱️ Schedule app checks weekly to keep important apps secure.
- 🔍 Read update notes to avoid unwanted UI changes or features.
- 🧹 Uninstall unused apps to reduce update frequency altogether.
Summary Table: Auto-Update Control (Android vs. iPhone)
| Feature | Android | iPhone (iOS) |
|---|---|---|
| Global Auto-Update Off | Yes (via Play Store) | Yes (via Settings > App Store) |
| Per-App Auto-Update Control | Yes | No (only global control) |
| Wi-Fi Only Updates Option | Yes | Yes |
| Manual Updates | Play Store > My Apps | App Store > Profile |
Final Thoughts
While automatic updates offer convenience, turning them off gives you greater control over your device, saves mobile data, and helps prevent unexpected app behavior. Whether you’re using an Android phone or an iPhone, disabling auto updates is simple and reversible.
Stay in charge of your apps—update when it’s right for you, not when your phone decides.