How to Turn Off Auto Update on Android Devices

Learning Resources
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If you’re looking to take control of your Android device’s updates, turning off auto updates for your apps and system software is a great way to do so. Whether you want to save data, avoid unexpected changes, or just manage your device’s performance better, this guide will walk you through the steps you need to take.

Disabling Auto Updates for Apps

  1. Open the Google Play Store
    Launch the Google Play Store app on your device.

  2. Access the Menu
    Tap on your profile icon located in the top right corner of the screen.

  3. Go to Settings
    From the dropdown menu, select Settings.

  4. Select Network Preferences
    Under the settings menu, you will see an option for Network preferences. Tap on it.

  5. Choose Auto-update apps
    Here you will find the Auto-update apps option. Tap on it.

  6. Select the Desired Option
    You will see three choices:

    • Over any network
    • Over Wi-Fi only
    • Don’t auto-update apps
      Select Don’t auto-update apps to disable the feature completely.

Disabling System Updates

To prevent your device from auto-updating the system:

  1. Open Settings
    Go to the Settings app on your Android device.

  2. Scroll Down to About Phone
    Find and tap on About phone, or About device depending on your Android version.

  3. System Updates
    Look for System Updates. This option might also appear as Software updates or something similar.

  4. Auto update
    In this section, you might find an option regarding auto-updates. You can toggle it off to prevent automatic system updates on your device.

Important Notes

  • Disabling auto updates means you will need to check for updates manually to keep your apps and system secure.
  • Make sure to regularly check for important updates, especially for security purposes.

By following these steps, you will have better control over what gets updated on your Android device. Happy customizing!

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To turn off auto updates for individual apps, open the Google Play Store. Tap on your profile icon and go to ‘Settings’. From there, select ‘Network preferences’ and choose ‘Auto-update apps’.

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3

That’s super helpful! I always forget where those settings are. Can you explain what to do next? I want to make certain apps update only when I choose.

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4

After selecting ‘Auto-update apps’, choose ‘Don’t auto-update apps’. This will stop all apps from updating automatically. You’ll have control over each one now!

5

Thanks! But can I enable it again later if I change my mind?

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Absolutely! You can always go back to the same settings and choose the option you prefer. It’s all about what works for you at the moment.

7

Great! I’m often worried about my phone running out of space. What if the update is really big?

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That’s a valid concern. Some apps do have large updates. By managing auto-updates, you can ensure you have enough space and only download updates when you’re ready.

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But what if I forget to update an important app? Will I miss critical updates?

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You can always check for updates manually by going to ‘My apps & games’ in the Play Store. It allows you to see what’s available and decide what to update.

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11

That’s reassuring! Anyone else find this setting useful or have had issues with missed updates?

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I found it super useful! I used to have random updates during meetings or when I was low on data. Turning it off has given me peace of mind, honestly.

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I totally agree! The surprises were annoying! It’s nice to have the control.

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And if you’re someone who respects data limits, this feature is your best friend. :smile: Just be ready to update the fun apps manually when you get the chance!

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15

For sure! But sometimes I wonder if I’m missing out on cool new features because I’m too slow to update!

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That’s a real dilemma! I think it’s balance—update when you can but take your time if you need to. Maybe set a reminder for those fun updates?

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A reminder feels practical. But what if I just have a fear of change in apps? Like, is it irrational?

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Not irrational at all! Some updates change the user experience completely. Just approach it with an open mind, and you might discover some cool features you weren’t expecting!

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To turn off auto updates on your Android device, go to Settings > System > Advanced > System Update. From there, select ‘Automatic updates’ and switch it off. That should do it!

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Thanks for the tip! Does this also apply to Samsung devices, or is it different?