iOS 26.4: Apple changes App Store update function
Apple has changed a workflow frequently used by users for manually updating iPhone apps. You can find the updates here now.
App Store icon against a cloudy background.
(Image: Tada Images / Shutterstock)
Huh, where have my updates gone? Anyone who installed iOS 26.4 this week will quickly ask themselves this, because Apple has tinkered with the operation of its App Store application. Why this happened now and not, for example, with the introduction of iOS 26 in the fall is unclear. In any case, the scope means that users can only reach an important function with one extra click. Fortunately, however, there is also a faster way.
Well hidden, updates still slow
Previously, iOS app updates were done like this: You went to the App Store, clicked on your icon in the top right – and saw the available updates. If any were missing, it was worth pulling down to refresh the view. You could then update all or individual apps with a click. Since Apple also liked to take its time with active automatic updates for iOS apps, users who had left the operating system to update also used the function frequently.
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Now, when you click on your icon, the update overview doesn't appear immediately. Instead, the settings menu for your App Store profile, existing subscriptions, notification settings, or settings for ratings and reviews are listed, among other things. There are also buttons to, for example, add money, redeem gift codes, give away apps, or change the App Store configuration. The updates themselves are still there, albeit hidden at first glance: you'll find them now in third place on this screen.
It's faster via the Home Screen
Clicking the option brings up the usual update screen, albeit now in full screen. A “pull to refresh” also still works here. Updates work as usual. Apple has also made no changes to the sometimes slow update speed for automatic updates; you often have to check if there are any further updates.
If the extra click seems unnecessary, you're lucky to have a faster way available: As Mac & i describes in its detailed tips for iOS 26.4, it's enough to press and hold the App Store icon on the Home Screen: Place your finger on the App Store icon until the context menu pops up, and then select “Updates” there. This takes you directly to the updates without detours.
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