This guide explains how to disable automatic app updates on Galaxy S9 and why you should. Automatic updates happen behind the scenes, but you’ll get notifications about them almost daily. While you don’t always want to see these notifications, if you just want to know what’s updated and changed, we’ll show you how to disable them.
When you first get your Galaxy S9 or S9+, there are dozens of apps that need updating. Then, more updates will surface as you continue to use the device and download apps or games.
You can manually check for updates on your smartphone by turning off automatic app updates. That’s a big reason to turn off automatic updates. Additionally, turning them off can save your mobile data and avoid overtime charges. You will then know what’s going on on your device and see the change logs before accepting the update. It can also help keep the phone’s notification center organized.
How to Disable Automatic App Updates on Galaxy S9
Before we get started, it’s worth mentioning that your phone probably has two app stores. One is the Google Play Store that you use all the time, and the other is Samsung Galaxy Apps. We can quickly manage and disable automatic updates on both platforms.
First, we’ll explain how it fares on the Google Play Store, as it gets the most updates. Next, switch to Samsung’s Galaxy App store.
As you can see above, Google gives you three options to choose from. These are: auto-update apps, auto-update apps never (enabled by default), or auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only. Choose the most suitable option for you. Select Do not auto-update apps to avoid automatic updates.
By disabling auto-update apps, you will have more control over your device. That way, major apps and games won’t be able to update and use your entire data plan before the end of the month. We’ve seen game updates use 1GB in a single update. Not to mention that you won’t be aware of possible changes to your favorite apps. If this is not important to you and you want to get rid of notifications, choose to update apps over Wi-Fi only. This way the apps will update on their own, but only when on WiFi.
I turn off automatic updates. That way I know what’s new, what’s changed, and what to look for. Instead of being surprised when my favorite apps or games suddenly change.
Galaxy App Store Updates
Next, we’ll explain a similar process for Samsung’s Galaxy App Store on the Galaxy S9. This is Samsung’s dedicated store for camera mods, pre-installed apps, and a few other things. Samsung updates the Always-on display, Edge apps panel, Internet browser, additional camera features, and a few other things here.
We recommend leaving them enabled so you’re always on the latest Samsung apps and versions with the latest features. However, the same rules apply for not knowing what has changed when you get the updates. It is worth noting that some carrier models of the S9 do not have the Galaxy App Store. If you don’t see it in the app tray, skip this area and you’re done. Otherwise, here’s how to disable automatic app updates on Samsung’s side.
Samsung has similar options to the Google Play Store. Just choose the right one for you. By default, it only updates when on a WiFi connection. That way you don’t waste your monthly data plan.
You can then choose between allowing apps to update anytime and anywhere, or turning them off entirely. If you turn them off, you’ll get notifications for new app updates so you don’t miss anything. They just won’t be updated automatically.
Other details
Note that if you disable auto-update apps in both stores, you’ll get notifications almost daily that apps have updates. This is very frustrating and can start overloading your notification bar. Choose from persistent notifications, a little more control, or turn everything off.
Personally, I would recommend setting both stores to automatically update over WiFi only. This way you will have the latest features, will not use your data and you will not receive constant notifications to update your apps. While you’re here, check out these tips for improving Galaxy S9 battery life, or get a Galaxy S9+ screen protector and keep your phone safe. Leave a comment below if you have any questions or concerns.