If you’ve installed a MOD APK, you’ve probably noticed something frustrating — Google Play Store sometimes automatically updates your app back to the original version, removing the modded features.
To keep your MOD APKs working properly in 2025, it’s critical to disable auto-updates, both globally and on a per-app basis.
This guide will show you exactly how to stop Play Store from replacing your MOD APKs and ensure your modified apps stay intact.
Why MOD APKs Get Replaced
Google Play doesn’t recognize MOD APKs as official versions. If it detects an app installed on your phone that matches one in the Play Store (same package name), it assumes it can update it.
This results in:
- MOD replaced with official version
- Features removed
- Paid restrictions back
- App crashes (if signatures don’t match)
How to Stop MOD APKs from Auto-Updating (2025)
You have three main methods to prevent this. Use one or more, depending on how you manage your apps.
1. Disable Auto-Updates for a Specific App
Use this method if you only want to block updates for one MOD APK (e.g., Spotify, YouTube Vanced).
Steps:
- Open Google Play Store
- Tap your profile icon in the top-right
- Go to “Manage apps & device”
- Tap “Manage”, then find your MOD APK app
- Tap the app to open its details
- Tap the 3-dot menu in the top-right corner
- Uncheck “Enable auto-update”
This stops Play Store from auto-updating that one app.
2. Disable Auto-Updates Globally
Want to stop updates for all apps, including MODs? Use this method.
Steps:
- Open Google Play Store
- Tap your profile > Settings
- Go to Network Preferences > Auto-update apps
- Select “Don’t auto-update apps”
This ensures no app — modded or official — gets auto-updated without your permission.
You can still update manually when needed.
3. Use a Different Package Name (Advanced Users)
Some MOD developers change the package name so that the Play Store won’t recognize the app at all.
Example:
- Original YouTube:
com.google.android.youtube - MOD version:
com.vanced.android.youtube
If the MOD has a different package name:
- Google Play won’t auto-update it
- But you can’t sign in using Google (unless the app allows workarounds)
You can also clone the app with a new package name using tools like App Cloner or Lucky Patcher (root required).
What NOT to Do
- Don’t try to disable Play Store entirely — it’s needed for other apps
- Don’t update a MOD APK from Play Store — you’ll lose features
- Avoid apps that don’t allow you to disable auto-update
What If Your MOD APK Was Already Updated?
If you accidentally updated your MOD APK via Play Store:
- Uninstall the official version
- Download and install the MOD APK again from namoapk.com
- Disable auto-update as shown above
✅ This will restore your modded features
Bonus: Use a MOD APK Manager App
Some apps like “Updater Control” or “App Manager” allow you to:
- View apps with auto-update enabled
- Disable/enable Play Store interactions
- Back up MOD APKs before updates
Use these tools to stay in control of your modded apps in 2025.
Which MOD APKs Commonly Get Auto-Updated?
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| YouTube MODs | Frequently auto-updated by Play Store |
| Spotify Premium MOD | Often overwritten with original |
| Instagram MOD | Signature mismatch issues |
| Netflix/Hotstar MODs | Prone to login errors after update |
Always disable auto-update for these apps immediately after installation.
Final Thoughts
If you love using MOD APKs for premium features, don’t let Google Play ruin it.
Auto-updates may seem convenient, but they’re a MOD user’s worst enemy. By taking 2 minutes to disable them, you’ll enjoy:
- Permanent MOD functionality
- No surprise app resets
- Full control over your app versions