If your iPhone 11 Pro refuses to update apps through the App Store, you’re not the only one. This issue can happen after a software update, due to network glitches, or even minor system bugs. The good news? You can usually fix it with a few simple steps.
Here’s a complete list of troubleshooting methods to help you get your apps updating again.
1. Force Close the App Store
A quick reset of the App Store can fix temporary glitches.
How to do it:
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle.
- Swipe side to side to find the App Store.
- Swipe up on it to force close.
- Reopen the App Store and try updating again.
Or use the quick shortcut:
- Long-press the App Store icon on your Home Screen.
- Tap Updates from the pop-up menu.
2. Restart Your iPhone (Soft Reset)
A system reboot clears memory and refreshes services that might be misbehaving.
Steps:
- Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button.
- When the power-off slider appears, drag it.
- Wait 30 seconds, then press the Side button again to power back on.
After restarting, open the App Store and see if updates go through.
3. Refresh Your Internet Connection
App Store updates rely on a stable connection. A weak or unstable Wi-Fi signal can block downloads.
Option 1 – Toggle Wi-Fi:
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Turn Wi-Fi off, wait 10–30 seconds, then turn it back on.
Option 2 – Use Airplane Mode Trick:
- Go to Settings > Airplane Mode and toggle it on.
- Restart your iPhone while it’s enabled.
- After rebooting, turn Airplane Mode off.
Option 3 – Forget and Rejoin Wi-Fi Network:
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Tap the “i” icon next to your network name.
- Tap Forget This Network.
- Reconnect and re-enter your Wi-Fi password.
4. Check for Content & Privacy Restrictions
Restrictions might be preventing downloads or updates from the App Store.
How to disable them:
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases.
- Set Installing Apps, Deleting Apps, and In-app Purchases to Allow.
- Make sure password settings are also configured to Require After 15 Minutes or similar.
5. Sign Out of App Store and Back In
Sometimes your Apple ID session needs to be refreshed.
To sign out and back in:
- Go to Settings > [your name] > Sign Out.
- Enter your Apple ID password.
- Choose data to keep on the device, then confirm sign-out.
- Restart your iPhone.
- Go back to Settings and Sign In again.
Try updating apps once you’re signed back in.
6. Check for iOS Updates
An outdated version of iOS can cause compatibility issues.
To check for updates:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Download and install if a new version is available.
- Restart your phone once the update is complete.
Still Can’t Update Apps?
- Check Apple’s System Status page to make sure App Store services are up and running.
- If the issue persists, reach out to Apple Support for deeper troubleshooting.