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How to Troubleshoot a Phone That Won’t Update Apps
Edited 1 day ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
App UpdatesMobileSmartphoneTroubleshootingDevice ManagementSoftware MaintenancePhone SettingsAndroidAppleApp ManagementGoogle Play StoreUser InterfaceApp TroubleshootingGoogle ServicesDevice PerformanceDevice ConfigurationApp IssuesDevice CustomizationSoftware IssuesApp Settings
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In today's digital age, smartphones have become essential tools for communication, productivity, and entertainment. These devices rely heavily on mobile apps to provide a variety of functionalities. However, there are times when the phone refuses to update these apps, making it difficult for users to enjoy the latest features, improvements, and security patches. If you're having trouble updating apps on your phone, don't worry. This detailed guide will guide you through various troubleshooting steps to effectively resolve this issue.
Understanding the problem: why apps won't update
Before moving on to the resolution, it’s important to understand why your phone might fail to update apps. There can be several aspects to this:
- Internet connection: A stable internet connection is required to download app updates. Poor or intermittent connectivity may hamper the process.
- Storage space: Insufficient storage space on your phone may prevent apps from updating.
- Device software issues: Outdated or buggy system software may interfere with the app update process.
- App Store problems: Problems with the Google Play Store or Apple App Store may cause the update to fail.
- App bugs: The app might have bugs that prevent it from downloading the latest updates.
Basic troubleshooting steps
Verify internet connection
The first step to resolving app update issues is to make sure your phone is connected to a stable internet source. Here’s how you can check:
- Make sure Wi-Fi or cellular data is enabled.
- Try loading a web page in your browser to test connectivity.
- If you're using Wi-Fi, restart your router.
- If your internet is slow, move closer to the router or disconnect other devices using the network.
Check storage space
Apps can't update due to lack of space. Follow these steps to check and free up storage:
- Go to the Settings app.
- Select Storage to view available space.
- If space is low, delete unused apps, files, or photos.
Restart the device
A simple restart can often resolve various software glitches:
- Press and hold the Power button until you see the options to power off or restart.
- Select Restart, or turn the power off and turn it on again after a few seconds.
Update device software
Make sure your operating system is up to date:
- Open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Software Update or System Update.
- If any update is available then download and install it.
Advanced troubleshooting steps
Clear the app cache and data
Clearing the cache and data may resolve app-specific issues. Here's how:
On Android:
- Open settings.
- Select Apps or Application Manager.
- Find the App Store app (e.g., Google Play Store) and tap it.
- Tap Storage and then Clear cache and Clear data.
On iOS:
iOS doesn't allow manual cache clearing. However, uninstalling and reinstalling the app may help.
Delete and re-add a Google account (Android)
If you're using an Android phone, try removing your Google account and then re-adding it:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Accounts or Users & accounts.
- Select your Google account and tap Remove account.
- Add your Google account back by tapping Add account.
Reset app preferences
Sometimes, resetting app preferences can help as it brings the settings back to their defaults without data loss:
On Android:
- Go to Settings.
- Select Apps or Application Manager.
- Tap the menu icon (three dots) and select Reset app preferences.
- Confirm the action.
App Store specific issues
Google Play Store problems (Android)
If you believe that the Google Play Store is the root of the problem, try the following:
- Force Stop: Go to Settings → Apps → Google Play Store. Tap Force Stop.
- Uninstall updates: In the same menu, select Uninstall updates to revert the Play Store app to its factory version.
- Check Download Manager: Make sure it is enabled. Go to Settings → Apps → Show system apps → Download Manager. If it is disabled, enable it.
Apple App Store problems (iOS)
If you're having problems with the Apple App Store, try these steps:
- Check restrictions: Go to Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions and make sure App Restrictions are not blocking updates.
- Sign out and sign back in: Go to Settings → your name → Sign out. After signing out, restart your device and sign back in.
Common issues and their solutions
Error code
Both Android and iOS devices can display error codes when an app update fails. These codes are important to understand and resolve:
Android error codes:
- Error 492: Clear cache and data for Google Play Store and Google services.
- Error 910: Uninstall Play Store updates or remove/re-add your Google account.
iOS error codes:
- Error 1009: Often associated with network restrictions, consider using VPN services.
Insufficient funds or payment problems
If the app requires payment and updates aren't going through, make sure the payment methods are valid:
- Check your payment methods in your App Store or Play Store account settings.
- Update or change the payment method if necessary.
Additional solutions
Interference of third-party apps
Sometimes third-party apps or services can interfere with app functionality. Try updating your apps in safe mode, where only essential system apps are active:
Safe mode on Android:
- Press and hold the Power button until the option appears.
- Press and hold Power Off until Safe Mode appears.
- Select OK. The device will restart in safe mode.
Reset network settings
Resetting network settings can help resolve connection-related update issues:
On Android:
- Go to Settings → System → Reset options.
- Select Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
On iOS:
- Go to Settings → General → Reset → Reset Network Settings.
Factory reset
As a last resort, consider performing a factory reset. This action will erase all data on your device, so back up important information before proceeding:
On Android:
- Go to Settings → System → Reset options.
- Tap Erase all data (factory reset) and confirm the action.
On iOS:
- Go to Settings → General → Reset → Erase All Content and Settings.
Conclusion
Updating apps on your phone should normally be a seamless experience. However, when problems prevent updates, it can be frustrating. The comprehensive troubleshooting steps outlined above should help you troubleshoot app update failures on both Android and iOS devices. Remember to check basic aspects such as network connectivity, storage space, and update settings before moving on to advanced solutions. Keep your device software current and your app store accounts in good standing to ensure smooth app functionality. If problems persist, it may be necessary to reach out to professional customer support or visit an authorized service center.
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