The Unwanted Software Changes
By default, macOS is configured to silently download and install updates for any software you purchased or downloaded through the Mac App Store. These updates happen in the background while your Mac is connected to power and Wi-Fi. While this ensures you always have the latest security patches, it can completely disrupt a professional workflow. A background update might dramatically change the user interface of your favorite video editor, break compatibility with a crucial plugin, or introduce new bugs right before a major project deadline.
How to Disable Automatic App Updates
You can turn off this silent installation feature, forcing the App Store to simply notify you when an update is available so you can choose when to apply it.
1. Click the Apple logo () in the top-left corner of the menu bar.
2. Select System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions).
3. In the left-hand sidebar, click on General.
4. In the main pane, click on Software Update.
5. Look for the section labelled “Automatic Updates” and click the small “i” icon (information button) next to it.
6. A new dialog box will appear with a list of toggle switches.
7. Locate the toggle switch labelled Install application updates from the App Store.
8. Click the toggle switch to turn it Off.
9. Click Done (you may be asked to enter your Mac password or use Touch ID to confirm the change).
Managing Updates Manually
With this setting disabled, the App Store icon in your Dock will display a red notification badge when updates are ready. When you have free time and are not in the middle of critical work, you can open the App Store, click on “Updates” in the left sidebar, read the release notes for each app, and manually click the “Update” button next to the ones you actually want to install.