Automatic app updates on an iPhone can be convenient, ensuring that you always have the latest features and security patches. However, they can also use up storage space, drain your battery, or consume mobile data without your consent. If you prefer to update apps manually, you can easily turn off automatic updates. This guide will show you step by step how to stop apps from updating automatically on any iPhone.
Why Stop Automatic App Updates?
There are several reasons you might want to disable automatic updates:
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Save Mobile Data: Updates can be large and quickly eat through cellular data.
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Control Storage: Automatic updates can fill your storage without notice.
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Battery Preservation: Constant background updates can drain your battery.
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Avoid Unwanted Features: Some updates may remove features or change the interface unexpectedly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Turn Off Automatic Updates
Step 1: Open Settings
Tap the Settings app on your iPhone home screen.
Step 2: Go to App Store Settings
Scroll down and tap App Store.
This section controls how apps are downloaded and updated.
Step 3: Toggle Off Automatic Updates
Under the Automatic Downloads section, you’ll see App Updates.
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Switch the toggle off (gray) to stop apps from updating automatically.
Step 4: Optional – Disable Use of Cellular Data
If you only want updates on Wi-Fi, make sure Automatic Downloads under Cellular Data is disabled.
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Tap App Store → Automatic Downloads → Use Cellular Data and toggle it off.
How to Manually Update Apps
Even with automatic updates turned off, you can still keep your apps current:
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Open the App Store.
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Tap your profile picture in the top-right corner.
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Scroll down to Available Updates.
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Tap Update next to the app you want to update or Update All to update multiple apps at once.
This gives you full control over which apps get updated and when.
Tips for Managing App Updates Efficiently
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Check Updates Weekly: Set a reminder to manually update apps regularly.
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Enable Wi-Fi Only: If storage or data usage is a concern, update apps only when connected to Wi-Fi.
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Review App Permissions: Sometimes updates request new permissions—manual updates let you check these before installing.
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Keep Critical Apps Updated: Prioritize updates for apps with security patches like banking apps.
Final Thoughts
Stopping automatic app updates on your iPhone gives you control over storage, battery, and data usage. By following the steps above, you can prevent apps from updating on their own while still updating important apps manually when convenient. It’s a simple adjustment that can make a big difference in managing your iPhone effectively.