Last Updated on September 18, 2023 by Ernests Embutnieks
I get it. Some of your iPad apps are not updating, or they are updating, but you don’t want them to update but you want to keep them exactly where they are. Sometimes, updates bring new features and fix bugs. Sometimes, they mess things up. There are two methods how to update apps on iPad.
You can do it manually by going to the App Store and updating each app or all together, or you can also set your iPad to update apps automatically. To do this, go to “Settings” and then tap on “App Store.” Under the “Automatic Downloads” section, toggle “on “App Updates.” Toggle On.
With this setting enabled, your apps will automatically update whenever updates are available, and your iPad is connected to Wi-Fi.
Let me show you how to do this step-by-step.
How To Update Apps on iPad Automatically
By default, the iPad has an inbuilt superpower – it automatically updates your apps. That’s right, no heavy lifting is required!
However, this superpower might be turned off if you’ve been fiddling around in your settings or trying to save data and battery. But no worries, I’ve got you covered if you have turned the auto updates off.
How to Turn On Automatic Updates on iPad
- Open Settings on iPad
- Navigate to the App Store.
- Under the ‘Automatic Downloads’ section, there’s a sweet little toggle for ‘App Updates.’ Flip it on!
Remember, these updates follow their own schedule, like a superhero with a secret identity. They might not download immediately, but they’ll save the day when the time is right.
How To Update Apps on iPad Manually
Occasionally, you may find that there’s an important app update you need, but the automatic updates aren’t quite doing their job. In such cases, you might need to take matters into your own hands and update these apps manually.
Don’t worry. I’m here to guide you through the process step by step.
Updating Apps Through the App Store
1. Fire up the App Store and tap your profile icon. It’s chilling in the top-right corner.
2. Under the “Available Updates” or “Upcoming Automatic Updates” section, you have two choices:
- Become an updating wizard by tapping ‘Update All’
- Select your updates carefully by tapping ‘Update’ next to each app
Want another magical trick? Long-press the App Store icon from your Home Screen and select ‘Updates’ to view all pending updates. Boom! All your updates, right there!
Search and Update
For apps with mega followings (like WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat etc.), updates roll out in batches. Sometimes, automatic updates might not catch these until a broader release. But hey, who doesn’t like early access to new features, right? Let’s go on a hunt!
1. Open the App Store and hit the Search tab.
2. Type in the name of the app you want to update.
3. If an update is available, you’ll spot an ‘Update’ button. If not, you’ll see an ‘Open’ button.
4. Tap ‘Update’ and voila! You’re downloading the latest update!
Ask Siri To Update Apps
What’s the point of having a smart assistant if you are unwilling to use it? Well, Siri can lend a hand (or voice?). Just ask Siri to check for updates and let it work for you!
1. Invoke Siri (the usual ‘Hey, Siri!’ works)
2. Say, ‘Check the update for the App. Let’s take ‘Instagram’ as an example.
3. Siri will take you to the App Store’s search page for the app.
4. Tap ‘Update’ next to the app.
How to Pause an Update on iPad
We’ve all been in a situation where we start something only to realize we need to stop. Be it running out of battery or data or simply having second thoughts.
When an app is updating, you’ll see a progress circle next to it in the App Store and a similar circle over its icon on the Home Screen. To pause an update, just tap the progress circle. Want to restart the update? Tap the circle again. Easy peasy!
Why My iPad Cannot Update Apps?
If your iPad is unable to update apps, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check your internet connection.
- Ensure you have sufficient storage space available.
- Restart your iPad.
- Update iOS to the latest version.
- Sign in with the correct Apple ID.
- Reset the App Store cache.
- Disable any restrictions that may prevent app updates.
- Contact the app developer or Apple Support if the issue persists.
Why Are Apps Not Updating in App Store Automatically?
Apps might not update on their own in the App Store for a few reasons:
- Auto-Update Off: Sometimes, the automatic update feature is turned off. You can turn it on in your phone’s settings.
- No Wi-Fi: Apps may wait for Wi-Fi to update to save your mobile data. Make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi.
- Account Issues: If there’s a problem with your App Store account, updates might not work. Try signing out and back in.
- No Update Available: If the app doesn’t have an update from the developer, it won’t update automatically.
- Not Enough Space: If your phone is full, it can’t update apps. Delete things you don’t need.
- App-Specific Issue: Sometimes, a particular app won’t update automatically. You can check manually in the App Store.
- Old Software: Make sure your phone’s software is up to date.
- Permissions: Apps may need special permissions to update. Check your phone’s settings.
- Background Refresh: On iPhones, make sure “Background App Refresh” is turned on for the App Store.
- Restart Your Phone: Sometimes, just restarting your phone can help.
Related Articles:
Where Are Downloads on iPad?
How to Hide Apps on iPad & iPhone
How To Delete Google History on iPad & iPhone
