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10 Tech How-To

App Updates Slow App Store iOS 12? Fixes

Guide 10-13205 · Updated · Step by step

Yes, app updates can slow down the App Store on iOS 12, but the slowdown is usually not caused by the updates themselves—it’s typically due to the device’s older hardware, limited storage, or network congestion. This article explains why updates feel sluggish on iOS 12 and provides practical fixes to speed things up.

Why iOS 12 Devices Struggle with App Updates

iOS 12 was released in 2018 and runs on devices as old as the iPhone 5s and iPad Air. While Apple optimized iOS 12 to be faster than iOS 11, the App Store has since evolved with heavier metadata, larger app binaries, and more complex update processes. Older devices have less RAM and slower processors, so the App Store’s interface and update downloads take longer. Additionally, iOS 12 lacks some newer background optimization features found in later versions, making the update process feel more laborious.

Common Culprits Behind Slow App Store on iOS 12

  • Low storage space: Updates require temporary space to download and install. If your device has less than 1-2 GB free, the system may struggle.
  • Network issues: Wi-Fi interference, weak signal, or a slow internet connection directly affects download speeds.
  • Outdated app versions: Some apps are no longer optimized for iOS 12, causing compatibility checks to take longer.
  • Background app refresh: Too many apps refreshing in the background can compete for system resources.
  • Corrupted cache: The App Store’s cache can become stale, leading to delays when loading update lists.

How to Speed Up App Updates on iOS 12

  1. Free up storage: Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Delete unused apps, old photos, or large videos. Aim for at least 2-3 GB free.
  2. Restart your device: A simple reboot clears temporary files and refreshes system processes.
  3. Check your network: Toggle Wi-Fi off and on, or switch to a different network. If using cellular, ensure Settings > iTunes & App Store > Use Cellular Data is enabled for updates.
  4. Sign out and back into the App Store: Go to Settings > iTunes & App Store, tap your Apple ID, choose Sign Out, then sign back in. This refreshes your session.
  5. Clear the App Store cache: Open the App Store, tap any of the bottom tabs 10 times rapidly. This forces a cache refresh (works on iOS 12).
  6. Update apps individually: Instead of updating all at once, tap Update next to each app one by one. This reduces simultaneous load.

Is It Safe to Keep Using iOS 12?

Apple stopped releasing security updates for iOS 12 after September 2021 (except for a few critical patches). This means your device is vulnerable to new threats. While the App Store still works, some apps may require a newer iOS version to function. If you can upgrade to a newer iOS (e.g., iOS 15 on iPhone 6s or later), do so for better performance and security. If your device cannot upgrade, consider limiting sensitive activities like banking.

Comparing iOS 12 to Newer iOS Versions for App Updates

Newer iOS versions (13-17) have more efficient update mechanisms, such as delta updates (only downloading changed parts) and better background scheduling. They also handle storage more intelligently. On iOS 12, updates are often full downloads, which are larger and slower. Additionally, newer versions have improved networking stacks that reduce latency when communicating with Apple’s servers.

When to Consider Replacing the Device

If your iPhone or iPad is older than the iPhone 6s (released 2015), it likely has 1 GB or less RAM, which makes the App Store painfully slow regardless of tweaks. Even after trying all fixes, if updates take over 5 minutes to download a 100 MB app, it may be time to upgrade. However, for occasional use, a factory reset (backup first) can restore performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do app updates take so long to start on iOS 12?

The App Store on iOS 12 often waits to verify your Apple ID and check compatibility, which can take 10-30 seconds on older devices. This is normal but can be sped up by ensuring you have a stable internet connection and are signed in correctly.

Can I stop automatic updates on iOS 12 to speed things up?

Yes. Go to Settings > iTunes & App Store and turn off Updates under Automatic Downloads. This prevents background downloads from hogging bandwidth and storage, so when you manually update, it may be faster.

Will deleting apps help the App Store run faster?

Yes, freeing up storage reduces the system’s workload. The App Store needs space to download and install updates; if the device is nearly full, it may even fail to update. Deleting unused apps also reduces background activity.

Does using a VPN slow down app updates on iOS 12?

Yes, a VPN can add overhead and increase latency, making updates slower. If you use a VPN, try disabling it temporarily to see if update speeds improve.

Is it worth upgrading to a newer iPhone just for faster App Store?

If the App Store is your primary issue, a newer device will dramatically improve speed. But first try the fixes above—they resolve most slowdowns without needing new hardware.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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