Ever been irritated by apps updating at inconvenient times on your Android device? Well, you can easily stop apps from updating automatically with a few taps in your device’s settings. Let’s get to it!
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Stop Apps from Updating Automatically in Android
Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what we’re trying to achieve. Turning off automatic updates allows you to manually choose when and which apps to update. It’s perfect for those who prefer to have control over the changes made to their apps or want to save data usage.
Step 1: Open Google Play Store
Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device. This is where all your app updates happen.
After opening the Play Store, you’ll typically land on the home screen where you can search for apps or browse categories.
Step 2: Tap on the Menu Icon
Tap on the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top left corner of the screen to access the Play Store menu.
The menu icon opens up a list of options such as My apps & games, Subscriptions, Wishlist, and Settings.
Step 3: Select ‘Settings’
In the menu, scroll down and select ‘Settings’ to access the Play Store settings.
The Settings menu is where you can tweak various aspects of how the Play Store operates on your device, including notifications and update settings.
Step 4: Tap on ‘Auto-update apps’
In the Settings menu, tap on ‘Auto-update apps’ to change your update preferences.
‘Auto-update apps’ is the option that controls whether apps update automatically or not.
Step 5: Choose ‘Don’t auto-update apps’
Finally, select ‘Don’t auto-update apps’ in the pop-up window and then tap ‘Done’ to save your preference.
Choosing ‘Don’t auto-update apps’ means you’ll have to update your apps manually from now on, giving you full control over the process.
After completing these steps, your apps will no longer update without your permission. You can now update them at your convenience, ensuring that you always have the latest version when you choose to do so.
Tips on How to Stop Apps from Updating Automatically in Android
- Make sure to regularly check for updates manually to keep your apps secure and up-to-date.
- Consider updating over Wi-Fi to save on mobile data usage.
- Be cautious when updating apps, as new versions can sometimes introduce bugs or unwanted features.
- Remember that some apps may not function correctly without the latest update.
- If you have limited storage, manual updates allow you to prioritize which apps to update first.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I manually update my apps?
To manually update your apps, open the Google Play Store, go to ‘My apps & games’, and tap ‘Update’ next to the app you want to update.
Will disabling auto-updates affect app functionality?
Disabling auto-updates won’t immediately affect app functionality, but over time, outdated apps may not work as intended or may become less secure.
Can I set auto-updates for Wi-Fi only?
Yes, you can set your device to auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only to save on data usage. This option is available in the ‘Auto-update apps’ settings.
What if I want to re-enable auto-updates later?
You can easily re-enable auto-updates by following the steps above and selecting ‘Auto-update apps at any time’ or ‘Auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only’.
Can I choose which apps to auto-update?
While you can’t selectively auto-update apps within the Play Store settings, you can manually update specific apps as you choose.
Summary
- Open Google Play Store.
- Tap on the Menu Icon.
- Select ‘Settings’.
- Tap on ‘Auto-update apps’.
- Choose ‘Don’t auto-update apps’.
Conclusion
Keeping your Android apps up-to-date is important, but sometimes automatic updates can be more of a hassle than a help. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can stop apps from updating automatically and gain back control over when and how your apps are updated. This can be particularly useful if you’re trying to conserve data, save battery life, or avoid interruptions during important tasks.
Remember that while turning off automatic updates can be convenient, it also means taking on the responsibility of regularly checking for and installing updates manually. It’s a small trade-off for having control over your device’s performance and storage. So, go ahead and make the change. Your Android experience is yours to tailor to your preferences, and now you know just how to do that when it comes to app updates. Happy updating, or not updating, as the case may be!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.