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HOW TO DISABLE AUTOMATIC UPDATES ON PIXEL 4 METHODS

How to Disable Automatic Updates on Pixel [4 Methods]

Automatic updates are a double-edged sword. On one hand, they ensure your Pixel device stays secure and up to date with the latest features. On the other hand, they can sometimes introduce unexpected bugs, drain your battery faster, or even disrupt your workflow if an update installs at an inconvenient time. For many users, the decision to disable automatic updates is a strategic one—whether to avoid potential performance issues, conserve data, or simply maintain control over when and how their device updates. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through four effective methods to disable automatic updates on your Pixel device, ensuring you have full control over your smartphone’s update process.

Why Disable Automatic Updates on Pixel Devices?

Before diving into the methods, it’s important to understand the rationale behind disabling automatic updates. Many Pixel users choose to take this step for several reasons:

By disabling automatic updates, you can mitigate these risks and maintain a smoother, more predictable user experience on your Pixel device.

Method 1: Disable System Updates via Developer Options

The first and most straightforward method to disable automatic updates on your Pixel device is through the Developer Options. This method is ideal for users who want a quick and reversible solution.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Enable Developer Options:

    • Open the Settings app on your Pixel device.
    • Scroll down and tap on About Phone.
    • Locate the Build Number and tap on it seven times consecutively. You will see a message confirming that Developer Options have been enabled.

  2. Access Developer Options:

    • Go back to the main Settings menu.
    • Scroll down and select System.
    • Tap on Developer Options.

  3. Disable Automatic System Updates:

    • In the Developer Options menu, scroll down to find the Automatic System Updates setting.
    • Toggle the switch to Off to disable automatic system updates.

  4. Confirm the Change:

    • A pop-up message will appear, asking you to confirm your choice. Tap Disable to proceed.

By following these steps, you can easily prevent your Pixel device from automatically downloading and installing system updates. This method is particularly useful if you want to retain the ability to manually check for and install updates at your convenience.

Method 2: Disable Google Play Store Auto-Updates

While the first method focuses on system updates, it’s equally important to manage app updates, especially those from the Google Play Store. Automatic app updates can consume data and sometimes introduce unwanted changes to your favorite apps.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Open Google Play Store:

    • Launch the Google Play Store app on your Pixel device.

  2. Access Settings:

    • Tap on your profile icon in the top-right corner of the screen.
    • Select Settings from the dropdown menu.

  3. Navigate to Network Preferences:

    • Scroll down and tap on Network Preferences.

  4. Disable Auto-Update Apps:

    • Select Auto-update apps.
    • Choose Don’t auto-update apps to disable automatic updates for all apps.

  5. Alternative: Selective Updates:

    • If you prefer to update apps manually but want to avoid using mobile data, you can select Auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only. This ensures updates are only downloaded when connected to a Wi-Fi network.

By customizing your Google Play Store settings, you can maintain control over app updates, ensuring they align with your preferences and data usage limits.

Method 3: Use a Third-Party App to Block Updates

For users seeking a more robust solution, third-party apps can provide additional control over automatic updates. These apps often offer features that go beyond the built-in options, allowing you to block specific updates or schedule them for a later time.

StopUpdates10 is a popular tool that can be used to block Windows updates, but similar functionality can be found in Android apps designed to manage updates.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Download a Trusted App:

    • Visit the Google Play Store and search for a reputable app that blocks automatic updates (e.g., Disable Auto Updates or Update Blocker).
    • Download and install the app on your Pixel device.

  2. Grant Necessary Permissions:

    • Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to grant the necessary permissions for it to function effectively.

  3. Configure Update Settings:

    • Use the app’s interface to select which updates you want to block. You can typically choose to block system updates, app updates, or both.

  4. Monitor and Manage Updates:

    • The app will notify you of available updates, allowing you to decide whether to download and install them manually.

Using a third-party app provides an extra layer of control, especially for users who want to fine-tune their update preferences or block specific updates that may cause issues.

Method 4: Use Magisk Modules to Block Updates

For advanced users who have rooted their Pixel devices using Magisk, there are specialized Magisk Modules available that can block automatic updates system-wide. This method is particularly effective for users who want a permanent solution that cannot be easily bypassed by system updates.

The MagiskHide Props Config module allows you to modify your device’s properties, including those related to updates.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Install Magisk:

    • Ensure that Magisk is installed and properly configured on your rooted Pixel device.

  2. Download MagiskHide Props Config:

    • Open the Magisk Manager app.
    • Tap on the Downloads tab and search for MagiskHide Props Config.
    • Download and install the module.

  3. Configure the Module:

    • Open the MagiskHide Props Config module.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to modify your device’s properties to block automatic updates.

  4. Reboot Your Device:

    • After configuring the module, reboot your Pixel device to apply the changes.

  5. Verify the Changes:

    • Once your device restarts, check the Settings app to ensure that automatic updates are disabled.

Using Magisk Modules provides a powerful and permanent solution for blocking updates, but it requires a rooted device and a good understanding of Android system modifications.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While disabling automatic updates can offer numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and considerations:

To mitigate these risks, consider periodically checking for updates manually and installing them when you’re confident they won’t disrupt your device’s performance.

Conclusion

Disabling automatic updates on your Pixel device is a strategic decision that can help you maintain control over your smartphone’s performance, battery life, and data usage. Whether you choose to use Developer Options, customize Google Play Store settings, rely on third-party apps, or leverage Magisk Modules, each method offers a unique approach to managing updates.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your Pixel device remains stable, secure, and tailored to your specific needs. Remember to weigh the benefits and risks of disabling updates, and consider manually checking for updates periodically to stay protected and up to date.

For more tips, tricks, and guides on optimizing your Android device, visit Magisk Modules and explore our comprehensive Magisk Module Repository.

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