This guide explains how to disable automatic app updates on the Galaxy Note 8 and why you might want to. Automatic updates take place behind the scenes and you don’t get notifications every day that they’re available. However, you also don’t know what’s changing, when, or how those changes may impact your device.
When you first get the Galaxy Note 8 there will be dozens of apps that need updates. Then, as you continue to use the device and download apps or games, more updates will surface.
Read: How to Delete Your Note 8 Browser History
There are a few important reasons you might want to manually control updates on your smartphone. Turning off automatic updates can help the Galaxy Note 8 use less mobile data. You’ll know what’s going on with your device, and see changelogs before accepting the update. It can also help keep the phone’s notification center organized.
How to Disable Galaxy Note 8 Automatic App Updates
In case you didn’t know, there are actually two app stores that update automatically on most Galaxy Note 8 phones. The Google Play Store and Samsung Galaxy Apps. We can quickly manage and disable automatic updates on both platforms.
First, we’ll explain the Google Play Store as it gets updates the most. Then, move on to Samsung’s Galaxy App store.
Google Play Updates
- Find and open the Google Play Store on your home screen or app tray
- Tap the top left (3-lines) menu button where it says “Google Play”
- Select Settings from the slide-out menu
- Under General settings click Auto-update apps
- Now select one of the three options
From here you can choose between do not auto-update apps, auto-update apps at any time (enabled by default) or auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only. Choose the option that works best for you. Select do not auto-update apps to get rid of automatic updates.
Keep in mind that if you keep auto turned on, the Google Play Store can quickly use up your monthly data limit. Especially if big games or lots of apps get updates. Not to mention you won’t be aware of any potential changes. If that’s not a concern and you want to get rid of the notifications, select to update apps over Wi-Fi only. We recommend most users select update over Wi-Fi only. This means you don’t have to do anything, and won’t worry about data usage.
While you’re in the Google Play Store settings menu, the second setting automatically adds app icons to the home screen after downloads. Uncheck the box to turn this off and keep your phone clean and organized.
We turn auto-updates off. That way I know what’s new, what’s changing, and what to look for. Instead of just being surprised when my favorite apps or games change at a moments notice.
Galaxy App Store Updates
As we said above, don’t forget about the Samsung Galaxy App Store. Most of the special features or camera enhancements you love on the Galaxy Note 8 come from the Galaxy App Store. These include the Always-on display, Edge apps panel, Samsung’s browser, add-on camera features, and the S-Pen suite.
Samsung improves these over time, so it’s good to keep these turned on. However, the same rules apply to not knowing what’s changing. It’s worth noting that some carrier models of the Note 8 do not have the Galaxy App Store. If you don’t see it in the app tray, skip this area, and you’re all done. Otherwise, here’s how to disable automatic app updates on the Samsung side.
- Find and open Galaxy Apps in the app tray
- Tap the (3-lines) menu button near the top right of the screen
- Select Settings from the pop-up menu
- Click the first option labeled Auto-update apps
- Now select Turn Off or choose from the options
Samsung’s Galaxy App store only updates apps when you’re on a WiFi connection, like at home, so data usage isn’t a concern. Then, you have the choice between letting apps update whenever and wherever, or turning them off completely.
If you turn them off, you’ll get notifications occasionally regarding app updates, and will get to manually choose what you do and don’t update.
Turn off auto-update on both the Google and Galaxy app stores to have full control over your device.
Other Details
Keep in mind that if you disable auto updates on both stores, you’ll get notifications almost daily that apps have updates available, which is frustrating at times. You need to choose between constant notifications or apps updating on their own. If so, follow the same steps above and turn automatic updates back on. We recommend settings both to update over Wi-Fi only, to ensure you don’t use your monthly data limit.
Remember, if you enable auto-update you won’t know what’s new or about changes in your favorite apps. You’ll simply notice changes to popular apps like Facebook, YouTube, or even games you enjoy. It’s all a personal preference, so choose what works best for you. While you’re here, take a peek at these 25 best Galaxy Note 8 cases.
