Is your iPhone or iPad failing to update apps in the background? Frustrating, right? Background App Refresh keeps your apps current, but glitches happen. This article diagnoses and solves common issues preventing this vital feature from working correctly on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. We'll guide you through troubleshooting steps, from simple fixes to more advanced solutions, getting your apps back on track. Let's get started!
Methods: Enable Background App Refresh in Settings
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Access Screen Time Settings
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on Screen Time.
- Tap on Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Find Background App Activities and tap on it.
Access Screen Time Settings -
Enable Background App Refresh
- Enter your Screen Time passcode.
- Select 'Allow'.
Enable Background App Refresh
Methods: Check for iOS Updates
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Open Settings
- Tap on the Settings app.
-
Navigate to Software Update
- Tap on General.
- Tap on Software Update.
Navigate to Software Update -
Install iOS Update
- Tap on Install Now if an update is available.
Install iOS Update
Methods: Reset All Settings
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Open Settings
- Tap on Settings app.
-
Navigate to Reset Menu
- Tap on General.
- Tap on Transfer or Reset.
- Tap on Reset.
Navigate to Reset Menu -
Reset All Settings
- Tap on Reset All Settings.
Reset All Settings -
Confirm Reset
- Enter your iPhone passcode and Screen Time passcode to confirm.
Confirm Reset
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Low Power Mode Enabled
Reason: Low Power Mode restricts background activity to conserve battery, preventing apps from refreshing.
Solution: Disable Low Power Mode in the Settings app to allow background app refresh.
2. Background App Refresh Turned Off Globally or for Specific Apps
Reason: The Background App Refresh feature might be disabled entirely, or it might be switched off for individual apps.
Solution: Enable Background App Refresh in the Settings app, either globally or for specific apps you want to refresh.
3. Airplane Mode Activated
Reason: Airplane Mode disables all wireless connections, including the ability for apps to refresh in the background.
Solution: Turn off Airplane Mode to re-enable cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity for background app refresh.
FAQs
Why is my Background App Refresh turned off even though I turned it on?
Sometimes, iOS automatically disables Background App Refresh to conserve battery. Check your battery usage settings (Settings > Battery) to see if any apps are consuming excessive power. If an app is a major battery drain, iOS may temporarily or permanently disable its background refresh to improve battery life. You may also need to re-enable Background App Refresh for the specific app in Settings > General > Background App Refresh.
My Background App Refresh is on, but certain apps still aren't updating. What should I do?
Ensure the app itself allows background activity. Many apps have their own internal settings that control background updates. Check the app's settings menu for options related to notifications, data updates, or background processes. Also, make sure the app has the necessary permissions (location, etc.) enabled. Restarting your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch can also sometimes resolve temporary software glitches.