How to Disable Automatic App Updates on Android

Automatic app updates on Android can be convenient, but sometimes they lead to unexpected issues: increased mobile data usage, reduced device performance, or bugs introduced by new versions. If you prefer to control updates manually, follow this guide to disable automatic app updates on your Android device.

1. Disabling Updates via Google Play

Google Play allows you to disable automatic updates for all apps or just for specific ones. To turn off automatic updates for all apps:

  1. Open the Google Play Store app.
  2. Tap on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  3. Select Settings → Network Preferences → Auto-update apps.
  4. Choose the option Don’t auto-update apps.

Now, apps will only update when you manually initiate the update process.

2. Turning Off Updates for Specific Apps

If you only want to disable automatic updates for a particular app, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Google Play Store and search for the app you want to manage.
  2. Go to the app's page and tap the three dots in the top right corner.
  3. Uncheck the box for Enable auto-update.

This app will no longer update automatically, even if automatic updates are enabled for other apps.

3. Disabling Auto-updates Through System Settings

Some Android devices allow you to control auto-updates through the system settings:

  1. Open your device’s Settings app.
  2. Navigate to Apps or Apps & Notifications.
  3. Find and open Google Play Store settings.
  4. Select Permissions and disable Mobile data if you want to prevent updates over cellular networks.

4. Using Data Restrictions

If you want to restrict updates to Wi-Fi only and avoid updates on mobile data:

  1. Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Data Usage.
  2. Select Google Play Store and disable the option for Mobile data usage.

This way, updates will only be downloaded when you’re connected to Wi-Fi.