These instructions apply to iPads running iPadOS 13 and up and iPhones using iOS 9 and later.

After you turn it on, your iOS devices download updates to any apps as they become available.

With App Updates turned on, the updates occur as they become available.

iPad with Settings app highlighted in iOS 14

You no longer need to update each app on each gadget manually.

Some apps, especially games, could use a good chunk of your monthly data allotment.

Even with an unlimited plan, cellular downloads may slow down your equipment for other services.

iPad settings with App Store highlighted

It works differently from the App Updates feature.

It does not check for updates to those apps.

In iOS 12 through iOS 9, the Automatic Downloads section also includes On/Off sliders forMusicandBooks & Audiobooks.

App Store settings with App Updates highlighted

Turning them on syncs your new music or book downloads across your devices.

Synchronizing music to all devices can also quickly fill the storage space.

The App Store Automatic Downloads section with Apps highlighted

Automatic updates section in iPad settings

FaceID & Passcode settings with iTunes & App Store highlighted