How to Turn Off Auto Update on iPhone 16 (And Why You Might Want To)

Auto updates are supposed to keep your iPhone secure and up to date, but they can also cause problems. I've had auto updates break apps, drain my battery, and even delete my photos. That's why I always turn off auto updates and update my iPhone manually when I'm ready.

Turn Off Auto Update for iOS

This will prevent your iPhone from automatically downloading and installing iOS updates.

Open Settings > General > Software Update
Tap "Automatic Updates"
Toggle off "Download iOS Updates"
Toggle off "Install iOS Updates"

Turn Off Auto Update for Apps

This will prevent your apps from automatically updating.

Open Settings > App Store
Toggle off "App Updates"

Why I Turned Off Auto Updates

I turned off auto updates for three main reasons: 1. I don't want updates to install in the middle of the night and drain my battery 2. I want to wait and see if an update has any bugs before I install it 3. I don't want apps to change without my permission

When You Should Keep Auto Updates On

If you're not tech-savvy, you should probably keep auto updates on. They will keep your iPhone secure and up to date without you having to do anything.

Pro Tip

You can still update your iPhone manually when you want to. Just go to Settings > General > Software Update and tap "Download and Install".

Related Tech Tips

Turning off auto updates gives you more control over your iPhone. It's a personal choice, but I think it's worth it. For more easy tech tips, check out our Tech Tips section or return to home.