How to Turn Off Automatic Updates on iPhone | iOS and App Store Settings

Automatic updates are convenient, but they are not always what you want. Your iPhone may install a new iOS version overnight, or an app may change its interface before you are ready. If you prefer to update manually, you can turn off automatic updates for both iOS and App Store apps. This guide explains the difference between the two settings, how to disable each one, and how to keep your iPhone secure after switching to manual updates.

Table of Contents

1. What Automatic Updates Mean on iPhone
   1. iOS Updates vs. App Updates
   2. Pros and Cons of Turning Them Off
2. How to Turn Off Automatic iOS Updates
   1. Stop Automatic Downloads and Installs
   2. Keep Security Responses in Mind
3. How to Turn Off Automatic App Updates
   1. Disable App Store Auto Updates
   2. Turn Off Cellular Downloads
4. How to Update Manually Afterward
   1. Manually Update iOS
   2. Manually Update Apps
5. FAQ
6. Summary

What Automatic Updates Mean on iPhone

The iPhone has two separate automatic update systems. One updates iOS itself, and the other updates apps installed from the App Store. Turning off one does not automatically turn off the other, so you need to check both settings if you want full manual control.

iOS Updates vs. App Updates

The difference is simple:

• iOS updates update the operating system of the iPhone, such as iOS 17 to iOS 18 or smaller security releases.
• App updates update third-party apps installed from the App Store.

iOS updates can be large and may change system behavior. App updates are usually smaller, but they can arrive frequently and may change an app's layout, pricing, or features.

Pros and Cons of Turning Them Off

Turning off automatic updates can help when you want to:

• Avoid unexpected interface changes.
• Save mobile data.
• Wait a few days before installing a major update.
• Prevent updates from running when battery or storage is low.

The trade-off is security. Updates often fix vulnerabilities and bugs, so manual updates require a habit: check regularly and do not postpone important security fixes for too long.

How to Turn Off Automatic iOS Updates

Use this setting when you do not want the iPhone itself to download or install new iOS versions automatically.

Stop Automatic Downloads and Installs

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General.
3. Tap Software Update.
4. Tap Automatic Updates.
5. Turn off Download iOS Updates.
6. Turn off Install iOS Updates.

After this, your iPhone should not download or install new iOS versions unless you start the update yourself from the Software Update screen.

Keep Security Responses in Mind

Recent iOS versions may show a separate option for security responses and system files. This option can deliver important security fixes without waiting for a full iOS release.

If your reason for disabling automatic updates is only to avoid major version changes, consider leaving security responses enabled. If you turn everything off, make sure you check for updates manually on a regular schedule.

How to Turn Off Automatic App Updates

App updates are controlled separately from iOS updates.

Disable App Store Auto Updates

1. Open Settings.
2. Scroll down and tap App Store.
3. Under Automatic Downloads, turn off App Updates.

Once this is off, App Store apps will not update automatically. You can still update them manually whenever you choose.

Turn Off Cellular Downloads

If you mainly want to prevent data usage, also check the cellular setting:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap App Store.
3. Under Cellular Data, turn off Automatic Downloads.

This prevents app downloads and updates from using mobile data automatically. Wi-Fi behavior depends on the App Updates switch above.

How to Update Manually Afterward

Manual updating is safe if you remember to do it. The goal is not to avoid updates forever, but to choose the timing yourself.

Manually Update iOS

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General.
3. Tap Software Update.
4. Wait for the iPhone to check for updates.
5. If an update is available, review the version and tap Download and Install.

Before a major update, it is a good idea to back up your iPhone, charge the battery, and connect to Wi-Fi.

Manually Update Apps

1. Open the App Store.
2. Tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
3. Scroll to the available updates list.
4. Tap Update next to individual apps, or Update All if you are ready.

If you rely on an app for work, banking, travel, or two-factor authentication, update it sooner rather than later. Delaying too long can cause compatibility or security problems.

FAQ

Will turning off automatic updates delete anything?

No. It only changes whether updates run automatically. Your apps, photos, and data remain in place.

Can I turn automatic updates back on later?

Yes. Go back to the same settings and turn the switches on again.

Is it dangerous to disable iOS automatic updates?

It is not dangerous by itself, but it does put responsibility on you. Check for updates regularly and install important security updates promptly.

Why did my iPhone still show an update notification?

Turning off automatic updates does not hide update notifications. It only stops automatic downloading or installation.

For a related maintenance topic, see how to free up iPhone storage.

Summary

To turn off automatic updates on iPhone, disable Download iOS Updates and Install iOS Updates under Software Update, then turn off App Updates under App Store settings. If you also want to save mobile data, disable App Store automatic downloads over cellular. Afterward, check iOS and app updates manually so you can control timing without falling behind on security fixes.