The Double-Edged Sword of Automatic App Updates: A Guide to Taking Control
Many smartphone users rely on the convenience of automatic app updates, allowing their apps to stay current without a single manual touch. While this automatic update system can be a boon, it’s not without its drawbacks. Unexpected bugs, increased data consumption, and a faster-than-expected battery drain are just some of the reasons why you might want to reconsider this default setting. This comprehensive guide will explore the pros and cons of automatic app updates, offering a detailed breakdown of how to manage them on various platforms like Android, iOS, Windows Phone 8.1, and Windows 8.1, empowering you to make informed choices about your app update strategy.
Why You Might Want To Turn Off Automatic App Updates
While the idea of having the latest features and bug fixes sounds tempting, automatic app updates can come with some unexpected downsides. Here are a few compelling reasons why you might want to take control of your update process:
Data Consumption Concerns
Automatic updates, especially when not limited to Wi-Fi, can lead to hefty data bills. It’s not uncommon to find yourself confronted with unexpected charges for downloading seemingly small updates, especially if you have a limited data plan.
Battery Drain
Downloading and installing updates constantly can drain your battery faster than you might expect. This can be particularly frustrating when you need your phone for extended periods, especially when away from a charger.
Unintended Changes & Unexpected Bugs
Sometimes, app updates can introduce new bugs or make unwanted changes to the interface or functionality. It’s not uncommon to find yourself wishing for the previous version after an update, especially if you are used to a particular workflow or enjoy a specific feature that is removed or altered.
Controlling the Update Timeline
Automatic updates can interrupt your workflow at inconvenient times. For instance, you might be in the middle of a crucial meeting or gaming session when an app update begins, causing interruptions and frustration.
Taking Control: How to Manage App Updates on Different Platforms
Let’s dive into the specific steps for managing app updates on popular operating systems.
Android
Android offers a flexible approach to app updates, letting you tailor it to your preferences.
Disabling All Automatic Updates
- Open Google Play.
- Tap the hamburger icon (three horizontal lines) on the top left.
- Select Settings.
- Tap Auto-update apps.
- Choose Do not auto-update apps to disable all automatic updates.
Update Only Over Wi-Fi
- Follow steps 1-4 above.
- Choose Auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only to limit updates to Wi-Fi connections.
Update Specific Apps Automatically
- Go to the app page in the Google Play app.
- Tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner.
- Check Auto-update to enable automatic updates for that specific app.
iOS (iPhone & iPad)
iOS allows you to choose between having automatic updates enabled or disabled. You can also decide whether to use cellular data for app downloads. However, iOS doesn’t offer the ability to selectively update individual apps.
Disabling All Automatic Updates
- Go to Settings > iTunes & App Store.
- Turn off the green switch next to Updates to disable all automatic app updates.
Updating Using Only Wi-Fi
- Leave Updates enabled.
- Turn off Use Mobile Data to limit updates to Wi-Fi connections.
Windows Phone 8.1
Similar to iOS, Windows Phone 8.1 offers the option to update all apps or only when connected to Wi-Fi. You cannot choose to update specific apps.
Disabling All Automatic Updates
- Open the Store app.
- Tap the three horizontal dots icon in the bottom right corner.
- Select Settings.
- Tap the switch next to Update apps automatically to turn it off.
Update Only On Wi-Fi
- Follow steps 1-3 above.
- Turn on Only get updates over Wi-Fi to prevent updates over your cellular data connection.
Windows 8.1
Windows 8.1 offers settings similar to Windows Phone 8.1, enabling you to manage app updates.
Disabling All Automatic Updates
- Open the Store app.
- Swipe from the right edge of the screen (or press the Windows Key + C) to reveal the Charms Bar.
- Select Settings.
- Tap App Updates.
- Change the button below Automatically update my apps from Yes to No.
Conclusion
While automatic app updates provide a level of convenience, understanding the potential downsides and equipping yourself with the knowledge of how to manage them is essential. The power to choose how and when your apps update gives you control over your data, battery life, and your overall mobile experience. By taking steps to disable or tailor automatic updates, you can avoid unexpected costs, optimize battery performance, and ensure that you get the updates you want, when you want them.