Ever been in the middle of something important on your phone, only for an app to suddenly start updating in the background, slowing everything down, or consuming your precious mobile data? You're not alone! Many Android users face this frustration regularly.
By default, Android apps are set to auto-update for convenience and security. This ensures apps stay current without manual intervention, but it can cause unexpected issues like data overage or performance lag.
Sometimes, you may want to disable auto-updates for individual apps to save mobile data, avoid unwanted changes, or manage your storage space. This guide will show you how to turn off auto update for specific apps on Android, giving you more control over your device.
Benefits of Disabling Auto Updates for Specific Apps
1. Conserve Mobile Data
Large app updates can quickly eat through your mobile data, especially when you're not connected to Wi-Fi. By disabling auto-updates for specific apps, you can save data and control when updates happen, ensuring you're only updating while connected to a Wi-Fi network.
2. Avoid Unexpected Changes and Bugs
App updates sometimes introduce unwanted UI changes, remove features, or even contain bugs. Disabling auto-updates allows you to avoid app bugs and ensure you’re not surprised by changes you don’t want or need.
3. Manage Storage Space
Frequent updates can cause apps to increase in size, consuming valuable storage on your device. By turning off automatic updates, you can better manage your Android storage and only update apps when you're sure you have the space available.
4. Maintain Compatibility
Some newer app versions might not work well with older Android versions or could cause conflicts with other apps on your device. Disabling updates gives you the flexibility to maintain app compatibility with your current system.
5. Control Update Timing
When you turn off auto-updates, you can choose when to update apps. This is particularly helpful if you prefer updating while connected to Wi-Fi, giving you the time and control to manage the process.
6. Review Permissions Before Updating
Updates can sometimes add new permissions, which you may not want to grant. Disabling auto-updates allows you to review permissions before deciding to update.
By managing your app updates, you can save data, avoid bugs, and manage Android storage more effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide: To Stop Automatic Updates on the Google Play Store
1. How To Stop Automatic Updates for Specific Apps on Google Play Store
Open the Google Play Store: Tap on your profile image at the top right corner of the screen.
Access Manage Apps & Device
Select Manage apps & devices from the dropdown menu.
Manage Apps
Tap on Manage to view your installed apps.
Select the App
Tap on the app you want to change the auto-update settings for.
Modify Auto-Update Settings
Tap the three dots in the top right corner of the app's page.
Uncheck the option Enable auto-update to disable automatic updates for that app.
2. How To Stop Automatic Updates for All Apps on Google Play Store
Open the Google Play Store
Launch the Google Play Store app on your Android device.Tap on Your Profile Image
Tap the profile image in the top right corner of the screen.Access Settings
From the dropdown menu, select “Settings”.Select Network Preferences
Scroll down to the “Network preferences” section.Choose Auto-update Apps
Tap “Auto-update apps”.Disable Auto-Update
Select “Don’t auto-update apps”. This will stop all apps from updating automatically.Confirm the Selection
Tap “Done” to confirm your choice.
Managing App Updates Effectively: Tips and Considerations
Regularly Check for Updates:
Manually check for updates periodically to ensure you have the latest security patches and features for important apps.Prioritize Updates for Security-Sensitive Apps:
Keep apps like banking, payment, and security software on auto-update or update them promptly to ensure your sensitive information remains protected.Monitor Data Usage:
Be mindful of your data usage when manually updating apps over mobile networks. Avoid large updates if you're on a limited data plan.Check Release Notes:
Review the release notes before installing updates. This helps you understand the changes, new features, or bug fixes in the update.Consider Wi-Fi Only Updates:
If you don’t want to disable auto-updates entirely, use the “Over Wi-Fi only” setting. This way, updates will only occur when you're connected to Wi-Fi, saving your mobile data.
Why Should I Keep My Phone Up to Date (Updated)
Security Enhancements:
Updates often include security patches that protect your device from the latest threats and vulnerabilities, keeping your personal data safe.Bug Fixes:
Updates fix bugs or glitches that might cause your phone to slow down, crash, or malfunction, improving overall performance.New Features:
Updates bring new features and improvements to your apps and system, offering you a better and more efficient user experience.App Compatibility:
Keeping your phone updated ensures that it remains compatible with the latest app versions, preventing crashes or performance issues.Battery and Performance Improvements:
Software updates often include optimizations that can extend battery life and enhance your phone's overall performance.
Keeping your phone up to date is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining its security, functionality, and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How do I remove auto update in the App Store?
On iOS, go to Settings > App Store. Under the Automatic Downloads section, toggle off App Updates to disable auto-updates.
How do I get rid of unwanted updates on App Store?
Unfortunately, unwanted updates cannot be removed once installed. You can disable auto-updates to prevent future updates or revert to an older version via third-party methods, though this isn't always recommended.
How do I stop WhatsApp auto update?
On Android, open the Google Play Store, go to WhatsApp's app page, tap the three dots in the top right, and uncheck Enable Auto-Update. On iOS, go to Settings > App Store, and toggle off App Updates to stop all apps, including WhatsApp, from auto-updating.
How do I remove force update from any Android app?
Force updates can't be bypassed directly, but you can disable auto-updates for specific apps via Google Play Store > Manage apps & device > Auto-update apps settings.
How to disable OTA updates on Android?
To disable OTA (Over-the-Air) updates, go to Settings > Software Updates > Auto-download over Wi-Fi or use third-party apps or developer options to block the update process.