To stop your iPhone downloading large apps over cellular, open Settings > App Store, tap App Downloads under Cellular Data, and choose Ask If Over 200 MB or Ask First. To stop apps and updates downloading on cellular automatically at all, turn off Automatic Downloads under Cellular Data on the same screen.
Quick Answer
Settings > App Store > App Downloads > Ask If Over 200 MB (or Ask First). Turn off Automatic Downloads under Cellular Data.
Steps
- Open Settings and tap App Store.
- Under Cellular Data, turn off Automatic Downloads so apps and updates wait for Wi-Fi.
- Tap App Downloads and choose:
- Always Allow: downloads anything on cellular.
- Ask If Over 200 MB: asks before big downloads.
- Ask First: asks before every cellular download.
More Ways to Save Data
| Setting | Where |
|---|---|
| Low Data Mode | Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options |
| Turn off cellular for one app | Settings > Cellular > scroll to the app |
| Wi-Fi Assist off | Bottom of Settings > Cellular |
| Automatic app updates off | Settings > App Store > App Updates |
Troubleshooting
- No App Downloads option: Older iOS versions only offer the on/off Automatic Downloads switch. Update iOS.
- Still downloading: Check Low Data Mode and your carrier’s plan settings. See Low Data Mode.
- App Store won’t connect: See fixing App Store connection problems.
- On iPad: See stopping automatic app updates on iPad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still download a big app on cellular?
Yes. With Ask If Over 200 MB, iPhone asks and you can allow it.
Does this affect iOS updates?
No. iOS updates have their own settings under General > Software Update.
Why did the limit used to be fixed?
Older iOS versions blocked large cellular app downloads entirely; newer versions let you choose.
Summary
- Open Settings > App Store.
- Turn off Automatic Downloads under Cellular Data.
- Set App Downloads to Ask If Over 200 MB or Ask First.
- Use Low Data Mode for extra savings.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.