Smartphone applications update frequently, often pushing out massive 50MB to 100MB patches several times a week. By default, the Google Play Store on Android is configured to automatically download and install these app updates in the background to ensure you always have the latest features and security fixes.
However, if your phone initiates a batch update of 20 different apps while you are riding the bus to work, it will pull several gigabytes of data over your cellular network. If you are on a restricted mobile data plan, this automated background process can easily consume your entire monthly data cap in a single morning, resulting in severe throttling or expensive overage fees from your carrier.
You can configure the Google Play Store to strictly forbid downloading app updates unless you are connected to a free, unmetered Wi-Fi connection.
How to Restrict App Updates to Wi-Fi Only
You must change this setting directly within the Google Play Store application.
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
- Tap on your Profile Picture (or initial) in the top-right corner of the screen.
- Tap on Settings from the drop-down menu.
- Tap to expand the Network preferences section.
- Tap on Auto-update apps.
- A popup menu will appear. Change the selection from “Over any network” to Over Wi-Fi only. (You can also select “Don’t auto-update apps” if you prefer completely manual control).
- Tap OK to save your changes.
The Play Store will now patiently queue your pending app updates. It will wait indefinitely until it detects a stable Wi-Fi connection before it begins downloading the heavy installation files, completely shielding your cellular data plan.