Table of Contents
Prerequisites
Before you get started, make sure you have these things set up:
- Root Access: Your device should already be rooted. If you’re unsure, you can check it with an app like Root Checker.
- Titanium Backup: You’ll need Titanium Backup to freeze system apps. Download it here.
- Magisk and TWRP: If you plan to use Magisk, make sure both Magisk and TWRP Recovery are installed on your device.
These methods will work for most rooted Android devices, whether you’re using stock Android or a custom ROM.
Turn Off OTA Updates Using Developer Options
First, let’s start with the easiest way to stop automatic updates using your phone’s Developer Options.
Enable Developer Options
Go to Settings > About Phone and tap the Build Number seven times. This enables Developer Options on your device.
Turn Off Automatic System Updates
Once Developer Options is active, go to Settings > System > Advanced > Developer Options and turn off Automatic System Updates. This stops your phone from checking for updates in the background.
Blocking OTA Updates with Titanium Backup
Another way to stop updates is by using Titanium Backup to freeze the apps that handle OTA updates.
Install Titanium Backup
Download Titanium Backup and allow it to access root permissions.
Freeze System Apps
Open Titanium Backup and search for system apps like ConfigUpdater or SystemUpdater. Tap Freeze on these apps to prevent them from working. This stops your phone from receiving or installing OTA updates.
Using Magisk and TWRP
Magisk and TWRP offer another reliable method to prevent OTA updates from breaking your root access.
Install TWRP Recovery
If you don’t already have TWRP, download it from here and install it on your device.
Flash Magisk Using TWRP
After installing TWRP, reboot into recovery mode by pressing Volume Down + Power. Then, install the latest Magisk zip file from here.
Turn Off Systemless OTA in Magisk
Once Magisk is installed, open Magisk Manager, go to Settings, and turn off Systemless OTA. This stops any future updates from interfering with your root.
Blocking OTA URLs
If you’re looking for a more advanced way to block updates, you can stop your phone from connecting to the servers that provide OTA updates.
Use AdAway to Block Update URLs
Download AdAway and use it to block OTA update URLs. A common one to block is:
redirector.gvt1.com
By blocking these URLs, your phone won’t be able to download updates from the server.
Freezing OTA Apps with Ice Box
Another simple way to stop OTA updates is by using Ice Box or similar apps to freeze the system apps responsible for the updates.
Install Ice Box
Download Ice Box from the Google Play Store.
Freeze OTA-Related Apps
Use Ice Box to freeze apps like SystemUpdater and Google Services Framework. This stops these apps from checking for or downloading updates.
Disabling OTA Updates Without Root
Yes, you can disable OTA updates on Android devices without rooting, though the options may be limited depending on the device and software version. Here are some methods you can try without needing root access:
Disable Automatic System Updates via Developer Options
1. Go to Settings > About Phone and tap Build Number seven times to enable Developer Options.
2. Once enabled, go to Settings > System > Advanced > Developer Options.
3. Scroll down and find Automatic System Updates and toggle it off.
Disable System Updates via Settings (for some devices)
1. On some devices, you can directly disable automatic updates in Settings > Software Update.
2. Look for options like Auto Download over Wi-Fi or Auto-update system and turn them off.
Set Wi-Fi as a Metered Connection
1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
2. Select your Wi-Fi network, tap Advanced settings, and toggle on Metered Connection.
This prevents large updates from downloading automatically over Wi-Fi.
Turn Off Notifications for System Updates
1. Go to Settings > Apps & Notifications > See All Apps.
2. Find System Update or Software Update.
3. Disable notifications for this app, which will stop you from receiving update prompts.
Use a Custom ROM or Third-Party App
Some custom ROMs or third-party apps allow you to block system updates, but these typically require more advanced knowledge and are not always a permanent solution without root access.
By following any of these steps, you can say goodbye to unwanted OTA updates on your Android device. No more waking up to surprises! Choose the method that works best for you and enjoy your device without interruptions.