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Tips for managing Android apps

Learn ways to manage Android apps on your tablet or smartphone.

Learn how to solve common Android app issues.

Before you begin

If you're experiencing issues with an app you installed on your device that is crashing, won't open or respond, or isn't working properly try the following steps:

Note: Always use a strong Wi-Fi connection and connect device to power source when updating your device software.

Details

Update an app to provide security enhancements and performance improvements
To check to see if there’s an app update:
  1. Open the Play Store app. 
  2. To view your downloaded apps, select Menu > My apps & games. Apps with available updates are labeled Update.
  3. If there's an update available, select Update or Update All. 

Force stop an app to completely shut it down
Force stopping an app completely shuts it down, including any background services that may be causing your issue. To force stop an app:
  1. From your device screen, select Settings. 
  2. Select Apps or Application manager (this may vary by device type).
  3. Select the app from the list and Force stop.

Clear the app cache to free up space
Clearing cached data can free up needed space by removing temporary files from your device. This is a short-term solution and, over time, cached data will build up again and will need to be cleared.
  1. From your device screen, select Settings.
  2. Select Apps or Application manager (this may vary by device type).
  3. Select the app, then select Clear cache.

Clear the app’s data
Clearing all of an app's data may resolve some issues. Caution: Any data saved in this app will be erased.
  1. From your device screen, select Settings.
  2. Select Apps or Application manager (may vary by device type).
  3. Select the app from the list, then select Storage > Clear data.

Uninstall and reinstall latest app version
If you continue to have issues, you can uninstall the app. Any data saved in it will be erased.
  1. Select and hold the desired app.
  2. Drag the app up to Uninstall at the top of the screen, then release.
  3. Select Uninstall to confirm.
  4. Go to the Google Play store to download app.
  5. Install latest version, then open the app.

Speeding up a slow device
See options below to improve a slow device.
  1. Restart the device every day.
  2. Uninstall apps that you're no longer using.
  3. Disable apps that are rarely used.
  4. Clear the cache and cookies.
  5. To free up space:
    • Store files and apps on to the SD card if the device allows one.
    • Store files in a cloud storage service.
  6. Avoid having too many apps or widgets on the home screens.
  7. Backup and restore your device. Visit Device Support and look under Backup & restore to view tutorials.

Additional steps

Apps support and troubleshooting
For help with downloading apps and games, removing an app, or viewing or closing running apps:
Last updated: December 7, 2022

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