How To Make Apps Update Automatically on Your Android Phone
Allow your apps to update themselves in the background.
It is important to keep your Android apps updated.
Developers are constantly improving apps by fixing bugs, adding new features, and enhancing security. Keeping apps updated ensures that you have the best experience, and can take advantage of the latest capabilities.
App updates often address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware. By updating regularly, you help protect your device and personal information from potential security threats.
Updated apps are designed to be compatible with the newest version of Android, while outdated apps may not function properly, or fully utilize your phone’s operating system.
We hate to see your apps get left behind, so let them auto-update without you lifting a finger. This article will serve as a comprehensiveguide on how to make apps update automatically on your Android.
How To Make Apps Update Automatically: 2 Ways
There are a couple of ways to enable automatic app updates on your Android device.
Using Third-Party Apps for Enhanced Control
The easiest way is to let the Google Play Store handle updates automatically:
Open the Google Play Store app.
Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
Select Settings.
Tap on ‘auto-updates’ under ‘Network preferances’
Under “Auto-update apps,” choose your preferred setting:
- Auto-update apps at any time (uses mobile data)
- Auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only
- Don’t auto-update apps
The Google Play Store can then keep your apps up-to-date based on your selected option.
Using Third-Party Apps for Enhanced Control
Third-party auto-update apps can provide more customization options compared to the Google Play Store’s built-in auto-update feature. They are useful if you want greater control over which apps get updated and when.
Some reliable third-party auto-updater apps available on the Google Play Store include Updater for Google Play Store, Auto Update Apps, and Auto Update All Apps. These apps allow you to select specific apps to auto-update, schedule update times, and set data usage limits for updates.
In general, they work by monitoring your installed apps in the background, and automatically downloading and installing any available updates based on your configured settings. The advantage of using a third-party app is the ability to fine-tune update preferences on an app-by-app basis instead of having a one-size-fits-all auto-update approach.
Common Reasons for Failure in Automatic App Updates
While automatic app updates are designed to simplify your Android experience, there are instances where they might not work as expected. Here are some common reasons for failure when allowing auto-updates and how to address them:
Limited Storage Space: Insufficient storage on your device can hinder automatic updates. If there isn’t enough room for the updated app, the process can fail. To resolve this, consider deleting unused apps or files to free up space.
Background Data Restrictions: If you’ve restricted background data for certain apps, they may not automatically update. To fix this, go to your device’s settings, navigate to “Data usage,” and ensure that background data is enabled for the specific apps you want to update.
Battery Saver Mode: Battery saver mode can restrict background activities, including automatic updates. While this helps conserve battery, it can lead to update failures. You can temporarily disable battery saver mode to allow updates or adjust its settings to permit certain activities.
Unstable Internet Connections: Automatic updates require a stable internet connection, preferably over Wi-Fi. If your connection is weak or intermittent, updates may fail. Make sure you are connected to a reliable network before initiating updates.
Google Play Store Errors: At times, errors within the Google Play Store itself can prevent automatic updates. Clearing the Google Play Store’s cache and data, or updating the Google Play Store app can help resolve these issues.
App Compatibility: Some apps may not be compatible with the latest version of your Android OS, causing update failures. Developers usually address these compatibility issues in subsequent updates. In the meantime, you may need to wait for the app to become compatible, or contact the developer for assistance.
Disabled App Services: Certain apps require specific services to be enabled for updates to work. If you have disabled any such services, it can lead to update failures. Check your device’s app-related settings to ensure necessary services are enabled.
Google Play Store Updates: If the Google Play Store itself isn’t updated, it might have trouble managing app updates. Regularly check for Play Store updates in the Play Store app to ensure it’s functioning optimally.
Auto-Update Settings: Double-check your auto-update settings in both the Google Play Store and system settings to ensure you haven’t accidentally disabled them. Sometimes, users unknowingly change settings that impact automatic updates.
Account Issues: Issues with your Google account, such as syncing problems, can hinder automatic updates. Try signing out and signing back in to your Google account to refresh the connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I disable automatic updates temporarily?
Yes, you can disable automatic updates at any time. For apps obtained from the Google Play Store, you can follow the same steps mentioned earlier and select “Don’t auto-update apps.” If you’re managing updates through system settings or third-party apps, you can toggle off the auto-update option.
Will automatic updates consume a lot of data?
It depends on your settings. If you choose to allow updates over mobile data, frequent automatic updates can consume a significant amount of data. To save data, consider enabling updates only over Wi-Fi, or scheduling updates during times when you have access to a stable Wi-Fi connection.
What if an app’s new update has bugs or issues?
Sometimes, updates might introduce new problems. If you encounter issues with an updated app, you can try clearing the app’s cache or data, or even uninstall and reinstall the app. If the problem persists, you can contact the app’s developer for assistance, or wait for a subsequent update that addresses the issue.
The Bottom Line
With this guide on how to make apps update automatically, you can make sure your Android apps stay updated and provide the best experience. Let me know if you have any other questions!
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