Background App Refresh lets supported iPhone apps update some information while you are not actively using them. Turning it off can reduce background activity, although it does not prevent apps from using the internet when you open them.
Turn off Background App Refresh
- Open Settings on the iPhone 14.
- Select General.
- Tap Background App Refresh.
- Tap Background App Refresh again at the top of the next screen.
- Select Off to disable it broadly.
If you only want to restrict certain apps, leave the overall feature enabled and turn off the switches beside individual apps instead.
What changes after you disable it
Some apps may take longer to refresh information when you open them. Push notifications are a separate system, so disabling Background App Refresh does not necessarily stop notifications from arriving.
Low Power Mode can also reduce background activity temporarily. If your goal is battery life, review battery usage in Settings before assuming Background App Refresh is the main source of drain.
The iPhone 14 has received several iOS releases since launch, and Apple can reorganize Settings. Search Settings for “Background App Refresh” if the menu path differs on the version currently installed.
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.