Android updates often bring new features, security fixes, and performance optimizations. But what if you it is necessary to stop the automatic system update? The reasons may be different: from unstable operation of the new firmware to the desire to keep the current version due to compatibility with applications or custom settings. In some cases, the update can even break the functionality devices - especially on old or unofficially modified devices.

In this article we will look at all possible ways to block updates - from standard settings to deep interventions in the system. You'll learn how to disable OTA updates, remove downloaded packages, limit background activity of Google services, and even block non-root updates. Important: some methods require caution, as incorrect actions can lead to loss of warranty or device inoperability.

Why does the phone update itself and can it be stopped?

Modern smartphones on Android are configured to automatically download and install updates for several reasons:

  • 🔄 Security: Google and manufacturers regularly close vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers.
  • 📱 Compatibility: New versions of Android support the latest application features and standards (for example, Android 14 for Ultra HDR photo).
  • 🔧 Optimization: Bug fixes and performance improvements for specific models (for example, Samsung Exynos or MediaTek Helio).

However, automatic updating is not always convenient. For example:

  • ⚠️ On Samsung Galaxy S22 after updating to One UI 6.1 users complained about increased battery consumption.
  • 🚫 On Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 the new firmware could block unlocking bootloader.
  • 🔒 Some custom firmwares (for example, LineageOS) conflict with official OTA updates.

Is it possible to stop this process? Yes, but the degree of control depends on the manufacturer and version of Android On stock devices. (for example, Google Pixel) blocking is easier than on heavily modified shells like MIUI or ColorOS.

📊 Have you ever encountered problems after updating Android?
Yes, the phone began to slow down
Yes, applications stopped working
Yes, the battery was low
No, there have never been problems
I don’t update at all

Method 1: Disabling automatic updates in settings

The simplest and safest method is deactivate automatic download of updates through the system menu. This method works on most devices, but does not guarantee 100% blocking (the manufacturer can ignore the settings).

Instructions for most smartphones:

  1. Open Settings → System → System update (on some devices the path may differ, for example, Settings → About device → Software update).
  2. Click on the three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner and select Update settings or Auto-update.
  3. Select option Disabled or Only via Wi-Fi (if you want to limit mobile traffic).
  4. Disable the option Automatic download and Automatic installationif available.

On devices Samsung the path may look like this:

Settings → Device maintenance → Software update → Settings (⚙️) → Auto update

On Xiaomi:

Settings → About phone → MIUI update → Three dots (⋮) → Settings → Auto update

Make sure that the settings are "Off"

Reboot your phone to apply the changes

Check if updates are downloading in the background (in Settings → Storage)

Disable mobile data for the service Software Update (if there is one option)-->

⚠️ Attention: On some devices (for example, Huawei or Oppo), the manufacturer can force updates through service centers or when connecting to a PC. In this case, additional measures (see the following methods) are required.

Method 2: Uninstall downloaded update packages

If the update has already been downloaded but not yet installed, you can uninstall manuallyThis will prevent automatic installation the next time you restart the device.

Where look for downloaded update files:

  • 📁 Folder /sdcard/Download — files with the extension .zip or .ota.
  • 📁 Folder /cache —requires root access or access via ADB.
  • 🔍 Via Settings → Memory → Files (look for files 1-3 GB in size with a name like update.zip).

How to delete:

  1. Connect the phone to the PC and use File Explorer (or file manager on the phone, for example Solid Explorer).
  2. Find and delete files with names:
    • update.zip
    • OTA_*.zip
    • bluetooth_firmware_*.zip (sometimes disguised as a Bluetooth update)
  • Clear the application cache Software update or Software Update v Settings → Applications.
    • What to do if the file is not deleted?

    If the system does not allow you to delete the file, try:

    1. Restart the phone in Safe Mode (hold the power button → "Restart in safe mode").

    2. Use the ADB-command:

    adb shell rm /sdcard/Download/update.zip

    3. applications Software Update via Settings → Applications → Three dots → Show system ones.

    After uninstallation, it is recommended turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data for several hours so that the system does not download the update again.

    Method 3: Blocking updates through data restriction

    If disabling in the settings does not help, you can block internet access for services responsible for updates. This works even without root access.

    Steps to restrict:

    1. Go to Settings → Applications → Three dots → Show system ones.
    2. Find applications:
      • Software update (or Software Update)
      • Google Play Services (Google Play Services)
      • Google services framework (Google Services Framework)
    3. For each of them:
      • Click Mobile data and disable the switch.
      • Click Wi-Fi and also disable access.
    Application Function Can it be blocked?
    Software update Download and install OTA Yes, completely
    Google Services Play Checking for security updates Partially (may disrupt the operation of other services)
    Google Services Framework Managing updates via Google Yes, but notifications about new versions of applications may disappear
    ⚠️ Attention: Blocking Google Play Services may lead to problems with Google Pay, YouTube and other services. If you notice any problems, return the settings back.
    💡

    If after blocking the data, updates still do not work. are loaded, check the settings VPN or Private DNS —some manufacturers bypass restrictions through these channels.

    Method 4: Disabling system services via ADB (without root)

    For advanced users there is a method disabling system componentsresponsible for updates using ADB (Android Debug Bridge). This does not require root access, but will require connecting the phone to the PC.

    What you will need:

    • 🖥️ A computer with ADB drivers installed.
    • 📱 Enabled USB debugging on the phone (Settings → About phone → Number build (press 7 times) → Developer settings → USB debugging).
    • 🔌 Cable USB-Type C (preferably original).

    Commands to disable updates:

    adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.android.updater

    adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.google.android.gsf.update
    

    adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.miui.updaters (for Xiaomi)
    

    adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.samsung.sdm (for Samsung)

    To return everything back, use:

    adb shell pm enable com.android.updater

    These commands disable system applicationsresponsible for checking and installing updates. After completion, reboot the phone.

    💡

    The ADB method works on most devices, but after resetting the settings or updating the firmware you will have to repeat the procedure.

    Method 5: Changing the build.prop file (for root only)

    If you have root access, you can make changes to the system file build.propto "trick" the system into thinking that the device has already been updated to the latest version.

    Step-by-step guide:

    1. Install a file manager with root support (for example, Root Explorer or FX File Explorer).
    2. Go to the path /system/build.prop.
    3. Find the lines: 
      ro.build.version.release=

      ro.build.version.sdk=

    4. Change the values to current version of Android (for example, if you Android 12and updating to 13 is not needed, leave 12).
    5. Save the file and reboot the device.

    Example of a modified file:

    ro.build.version.release=12

    ro.build.version.sdk=31
    

    ro.build.version.incremental=SP2A.220505.008

    ⚠️ Attention: Incorrect editing build.prop can lead to loss of device functionality. Always make a backup copy of the file before making changes!

    This method effectively blocks OTA updates, since the system "thinks" it is already running on the latest version. However, it requires caution and is only suitable for experienced users.

    What to do if the update has already started?

    If the phone has already started installing the update, interrupting the process is highly recommended —this can lead to “brick” (inoperability) of the device. But there are several ways to minimize risks.:

    • ⏳ Wait for completionIf the update is running in the background, do not turn off the phone and do not remove the battery.
    • 🔌 Connect to charging. Many devices cancel the update if the charge level is below 30%.
    • 📴 Disconnect the Internet. If the update is downloading but not yet installed, quickly switch the phone to airplane mode.

    If the update frozen during the installation phase:

    1. Hold the power button for 10-15 seconds to force a reboot.
    2. If the phone does not turn on, try going to Recovery Mode (usually Power + Volume Up) and select Wipe Cache Partition.
    3. In extreme cases, you may need to flash it via Odin (for Samsung) or Fastboot (for Pixel/Xiaomi).
    How to enter Recovery Mode on different devices?

    Samsung: Turn off the phone → Power + Volume Up + Bixby (hold for 10 seconds). Xiaomi: Turn off → Power + Volume Up (Mi Bunny will appear). Google Pixel: Turn off → Power + Volume Down → in the menu select Recovery Mode. OnePlus: Turn off → Power + Volume Down (in the fastboot menu select Recovery).

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about stopping Android updates

    Is it possible to roll back an Android update if it has already been installed?

    On most devices rollback is possible, but requires manual flashing via Fastboot or Odin. To do this you need:

    • Official firmware for your model (downloaded from the manufacturer's website).
    • An unlocked bootloader (on some devices, for example, Xiaomithis blocks encryption data).
    • Tools like SP Flash Tool (for MediaTek) or QFil (for Qualcomm).

    ⚠️ After a rollback, you may need factory reset (full reset).

    Will the phone work without updates?

    Yes, the phone will work, but:

    • ✅ Applications may stop updating (if they require a new version of Android).
    • ⚠️ Some functions (for example, Google Pay or Widevine L1 for Netflix in HD) may be refused.
    • 🔒 Security vulnerabilities will not be fixed, which increases the risk of hacking.

    If you are satisfied with the current functionality, the lack of updates is not critical.

    How to check if updates are downloading in the background?

    Check the following places:

    1. Settings → Memory → Files - look for large files (1-3 GB) with the extension .zip.
    2. Settings → Applications → Software Update → Memory —see how much space the cache takes up.
    3. Use Network Monitor (application from Play Market) to track service traffic updates.
    Is it possible to disable updates on a phone with a corporate policy (MDM)?

    If the device is controlled through Mobile Device Management (for example, a work phone), then:

    • 🚫 Most of the methods from this article will not work — the administrator can force install updates.
    • 🔧 Try deleting the MDM profile in Settings → Accounts → Delete account (if allowed by policy).
    • ⚠️ Illegal bypass of MDM may violate company rules and lead to device blocking.
    Is it true that disabling updates speeds up the phone?

    Not always. The speed depends on:

    • 📉 Optimizations of the current firmware: Old versions of Android (for example, Android 9) can work faster on weak devices (for example, Samsung Galaxy J6).
    • 🔄 Background activity: New versions often add processes that consume resources.
    • 🔋 Application compatibility: Some apps (for example, Instagram or Banking applications) require the latest versions of Android and may be slow on older ones.

    Test performance using Geekbench or AnTuTu before and after disabling updates.