Is there a way to reliably disable automatic app updates?

[GwenH]

I'm constantly running out of storage space on my phone. Automatic app updates seem to be the biggest culprit. I've tried the settings, but it still updates without warning, which is incredibly frustrating. Does anyone know a specific method or app that can completely prevent these updates from happening automatically, and how to revert the changes if needed?

 

[energie8]

Just use the firewall of your anti-virus software to block your apps from calling home.

Depending on the app, you may also need to block the update.dll file.

 

[energie8]

Oops, you are referring to a cell. I thought you meant a computer. My bad!

 

[mariabbuzdar]

On Android you can disable auto-updates for individual apps: open the app's page in the Play Store, tap the three-dot menu, and uncheck 'Enable auto update'. You can also turn off auto-updates globally under Play Store settings if storage is tight. I keep mine manual because I run a feature-rich Instagram app with extra customization options, and automatic updates would wipe those out.

 

[DMC]

If it’s Android, set Play Store > profile picture > Settings > Network preferences > Auto-update apps > Don’t auto-update apps. Also check each app’s Play Store page, since its individual auto-update setting can override what you expect, and check the phone maker’s store (such as Galaxy Store) separately. You can turn updates back on in the same menus later. Updates usually replace older app files, so check Settings > Storage for large app caches, downloads, photos or videos too. Is your phone Android or iPhone?