macOS · System
Auto-update apps from the App Store
Control whether apps downloaded from the Mac App Store update automatically in the background as new versions become available.
How to open App Store Automatic App Updates
- Open System Settings
- Select General, then Software Update
- Click the info button next to Automatic Updates
- Toggle 'Install app updates from the App Store' as desired
What you should know
- Toggle located under System Settings → General → Software Update → Advanced, or in App Store preferences
- Applies only to apps installed via the Mac App Store
- Independent from macOS system update settings
- Updates can still be checked and installed manually from the App Store's Updates tab
Why it matters
Keeping App Store apps current ensures users benefit from bug fixes, security patches, and new features without needing to remember to check manually. Because this setting is separate from macOS system updates, users can choose different automation levels for the operating system versus individual apps. For apps with frequent updates, disabling auto-update can also be a deliberate choice to avoid unexpected interface or behavior changes mid-workflow.
Best practices
- Leave automatic app updates on for most users to stay current on security fixes
- Disable it only for apps where version stability is critical, and update those manually with review
- Check the App Store's Updates tab periodically even with auto-update enabled
Common problems and fixes
- An app updated unexpectedly and changed behavior
- Disable automatic updates and manage that app's updates manually going forward.
- Updates aren't installing automatically
- Confirm the toggle is enabled and the Mac has an active internet connection.
- An update fails repeatedly
- Delete and reinstall the app from the App Store, or check available disk space.
Tips and tricks
- Check the App Store's Purchased tab to see update history for installed apps
- Use Launchpad or the App Store icon badge to spot pending updates quickly
Frequently asked questions
Does this update macOS itself?
No, macOS system updates are controlled separately under Software Update.
Can I update just one app manually while leaving auto-update on for others?
Yes, manual updates from the App Store work regardless of the automatic setting.
Do updates download over cellular on a Mac?
Macs don't use cellular by default, but updates will use whatever active network connection is available.
Related settings
- Software UpdateSoftware Update in System Settings keeps macOS current with the latest security fixes, features, and app compatibility improvements. Regular updates help keep your Mac fast, stable, and protected.
- Automatic UpdatesThis is the set of individual toggles inside Software Update that decide whether macOS checks for updates, downloads them, and installs security responses, system files, and app updates without asking you each time. You can automate the whole pipeline or keep manual approval at any step.
More System guides for macOS
- Update HistoryUpdate History lists every macOS update, security response, and Apple software update that has ever been installed on this Mac, along with the date and version number. It's the fastest way to confirm exactly what's been patched and when.
- Beta UpdatesBeta Updates lets you opt this Mac into pre-release macOS software — either the public beta or, with a developer account, the developer beta — so you can try upcoming features before they're officially released. Beta software is less stable and should only run on a Mac you don't depend on daily.
- Rapid Security ResponsesRapid Security Responses are small, fast-turnaround updates Apple issues between full macOS releases to patch urgent, actively exploited security issues. They install quickly, often without a restart, and are labeled with a letter suffix like 'macOS Sonoma 14.5 (a)'.
- Update Now vs. Upgrade LaterWhen both are available, decide whether to install just the latest security or point update for your current macOS version, or perform a full upgrade to the newest major macOS release.
- Update Installation SchedulingFine-tune whether macOS installs downloaded updates immediately, overnight, or only after explicit confirmation, minimizing disruption during active work sessions.
- Managed Updates (Enterprise/School)See when an employer or school's device management policy is deferring, restricting, or controlling macOS update availability on a managed Mac.