Turning off background app refresh on iOS 17 is a simple process that can help save battery life and reduce data usage. By following a few quick steps, you can prevent apps from updating content in the background when they are not in use.
You can also watch this video about how to turn off background app refresh on an iPhone for more on this subject.
Step by Step Tutorial to Turn Off Background App Refresh on iOS 17
When you turn off background app refresh, your apps won’t update in the background, which can help conserve battery life and reduce data usage. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Navigate to your home screen and tap on the Settings app icon.
The Settings app is where you can adjust all sorts of preferences on your iPhone, from Wi-Fi to privacy settings.
Step 2: Scroll Down and Select “General”
Swipe up or down until you find the “General” option, then tap on it.
The General settings include various options such as software updates, device management, and background app refresh.
Step 3: Tap on “Background App Refresh”
Look for the “Background App Refresh” option in the list and select it.
This is the setting that controls whether apps can refresh in the background.
Step 4: Choose Your Preferred Option
You can turn off background app refresh entirely by selecting “Off,” or you can choose to have it on only when connected to Wi-Fi by selecting “Wi-Fi.”
Choosing “Wi-Fi” will still allow apps to update in the background but will prevent them from using your mobile data.
After you complete these steps, apps will no longer refresh in the background, which can help your battery last longer and keep your data usage in check.
Tips for Managing Background App Refresh on iOS 17
- Regularly check which apps have background app refresh enabled and disable it for those you don’t use often.
- If you notice an app is draining your battery, consider turning off background app refresh for that specific app.
- Keep in mind that some apps may not function as intended without background app refresh, such as messaging apps that need to update with new messages.
- Remember that disabling background app refresh does not prevent apps from refreshing when you open them.
- Use Low Power Mode to temporarily reduce background activity, including app refreshes, to save battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is background app refresh?
Background app refresh allows apps to update content in the background when they’re not actively in use.
Does turning off background app refresh affect app notifications?
No, you will still receive notifications from apps even if you turn off background app refresh.
Can I choose which apps to disable background app refresh for?
Yes, you can manage the setting individually for each app in the Background App Refresh settings.
Will disabling background app refresh save data?
Yes, turning off this setting can help reduce data usage, especially if you are not connected to Wi-Fi.
Is it recommended to turn off background app refresh?
It depends on your usage. If you want to conserve battery life and data, it can be beneficial to turn it off.
Summary
- Open the Settings app.
- Select “General.”
- Tap on “Background App Refresh.”
- Choose “Off” or “Wi-Fi” to disable the feature.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a straightforward guide on how to turn off background app refresh on iOS 17. By now, you should have a good grasp of the steps involved and the benefits of disabling this feature. Whether you’re looking to save battery life, reduce data usage, or simply take more control over how your apps operate, turning off background app refresh is a smart move. Remember, you can always tweak these settings to fit your needs, and it’s worth taking a few minutes to explore which apps you want refreshing in the background. If you ever find yourself questioning whether an app needs to be constantly updated, consider giving it the chop from your background refresh list. Happy optimizing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing technology how-to articles and tutorials for over a decade. He has extensive experience in information technology both in small business and as a consultant.
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