Background Knowledge
The Apple’s iTunes software shows notifications of updates available for apps (applications) for iPhones, iPad and iPod Touch by placing a small numeric value in a box beside “Apps” under “Library” within iTunes. As time goes by it appears this numeric value becomes inaccurate as it reports that there is updates yet when you click on “Updates Available” under “Apps” (bottom right corner) there is no updates or only a few updates that does not add up to what it is reporting is available. It should be noted that though this maybe anonying to some it is not in any way harmful to iTunes or the device.
Solution – One
This issue occurs when one or more apps are purchased using more then one iTunes account. Login to each iTunes account and check for app updates. If there are any then allow the updates to be downloaded and installed. One other option would be to delete the app in iTunes and on the device and then download and install under the preferred iTunes account. In most cases this will resolve the problem.
Solution – Two
Be warned this this step is only necessary if the above does not work. Also be aware the steps below will delete all apps (applications) in your iTunes library. Make sure to have the applications backed up before proceeding.
- If the first solution didn’t work try going in iTunes under “Library” -> “Apps”.
- Highligh one random application and then select all applications by pressing CTRL-A or click on the menu “Edit” -> “Select All”.
- Right mouse click on the an application and click on “Delete” or click on the menu “Edit” -> “Delete”.
- Click on the device under “Devices” on the left hand side and then click on “Sync” at the bottom right hand corner.
When the sync is completed all the applications installed on the device will be back in the iTunes Library and the Apps update notification should now be corrected.