How to Fix a Phone That Won’t Update Apps

Edited 6 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

App UpdatesMobileSmartphoneTroubleshootingDevice ManagementSoftware MaintenancePhone SettingsAndroidAppleApp ManagementGoogle Play StoreUser InterfaceApp TroubleshootingGoogle ServicesDevice PerformanceDevice ConfigurationApp IssuesDevice CustomizationSoftware IssuesApp Settings

In the modern world, smartphones are an integral part of our daily lives. They provide us with communication, entertainment, productivity tools, and more. However, a common problem that frustrates many users is when their phone won’t update apps. This problem can hinder our routine and productivity, as updated apps often come with new features, security enhancements, and critical bug fixes.

Understanding the problem

Before diving into the solutions, it is essential to understand why this problem can occur. The most common causes include lack of storage space, poor Internet connection, software conflicts, and setting-related issues. Sometimes, the problem might be with the App Store itself. Knowing the root cause can go a long way in dealing with the problem effectively.

1. Check your internet connection

The first step is to make sure your internet connection is stable. Apps need a reliable connection to download updates. If you're using Wi-Fi, make sure you're within range of the router and the signal is strong. Alternatively, if you're using mobile data, make sure your data plan hasn’t run out.
To verify your Internet connection:

• Open any web browser on your phone.
• Try visiting a normal website like Google or Facebook.
• If the page loads, your internet connection is working fine. Otherwise, try restarting your Wi-Fi connection or mobile data.

Troubleshooting internet problems

If there is an Internet-related problem, try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Turn off Wi-Fi or mobile data and turn it on again after a few seconds.
2. Restart the router if you are connected to Wi-Fi.
3. Move closer to your Wi-Fi router.
4. Try connecting to a different network, if possible.
5. Contact your Internet service provider if the problem persists.

2. Check the storage space

Lack of storage space prevents apps from updating. Apps temporarily require additional space while they are updating.

How to check storage on Android

• Open Settings.
• Navigate to Storage.
• Check how much space is available. If space is low, consider deleting unused apps, photos, or other files to free up space.

How to check storage on iOS

• Open Settings.
• Tap General > iPhone Storage.
• Review how much free space is available. If necessary, delete unused apps or files to increase space.

3. Restart your phone

A simple restart can solve many temporary problems. This can help clear any software glitches or processes that might be interfering with app updates.

How to restart an Android phone

• Press and hold the Power button until you see the Power menu.
• Select Restart or Power Off.
• If you choose Power Off, wait a few seconds after the phone turns off and then turn it back on by pressing the Power button.

How to restart iPhone

• Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button until you see the Slide to power off slider.
• Drag the slider to turn off the phone.
• Once the phone turns off, press the Side button again to turn it on again.

App store troubleshooting

Sometimes, the problem may lie in the App Store itself. Let’s explore the steps to troubleshoot App Store problems on both Android and iOS.

For Android devices

Clear the cache and data of the Google Play Store

Sometimes, clearing the cache and data of the Google Play Store can resolve app update-related issues.

• Go to Settings > Apps > Google Play Store.
• Tap Storage.
• First, select Clear cache.
• If the problem persists, also select Clear data.

Update Google Play Store

Make sure the Google Play Store app is up to date.

• Open the Google Play Store app.
• Tap on the profile icon in the top right corner.
• Go to Settings > About.
• Under Play Store version, tap the option. If an update is available, it should start automatically.

For iOS devices

Sign out and sign back in to the App Store

Re-authenticating your account can sometimes resolve issues.

• Open Settings and tap your name at the top.
• Scroll down and tap Sign out.
• Reboot your iPhone.
• Sign in again by going to Settings > Sign In on your iPhone.

Update iOS

Keeping your iOS updated can solve many problems since updates often include bug fixes.

• Open Settings.
• Go to General > Software Update.
• If an update is available, tap Download and install.

Additional solutions

4. Check the date and time settings

Incorrect date and time settings can interfere with app updates. Make sure these are set correctly.

Set the date and time automatically on Android

• Go to Settings.
• Navigate to the Date and Time.
• Enable Automatic date and time.

Set the date and time automatically on iOS

• Open Settings.
• Tap General > Date & Time.
• Enable Set Automatically.

5. Uninstall and reinstall the app

If a particular app isn’t updating, try uninstalling and reinstalling it.

Steps to uninstall an app on Android

• Open Google Play Store.
• Search for the relevant app.
• Tap Uninstall.
• Once it's uninstalled, tap Install.

Steps to uninstall an app on iOS

• Find the app icon on the home screen.
• Press and hold the app icon until a menu appears.
• Select Remove App, then confirm by tapping Remove App.
• Reinstall the app from the App Store.

Final investigation and conclusion

After trying the above methods, your apps should update without any further issues. However, if the problem persists, further investigation may be needed. You may consider resetting your device’s network settings, as this can often resolve underlying issues without erasing personal data.

Reset network settings on Android

• Go to Settings > System > Reset options.
• Select Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
• Confirm by tapping Reset Settings.

Reset network settings on iOS

• Open Settings.
• Go to General > Reset.
• Tap Reset network settings.

In extreme cases where a software bug is suspected, a factory reset may be necessary although this should be considered a last resort after backing up important data. Additionally, reaching out to customer support for the phone or specific app may provide further assistance.

Dealing with app update problems can be frustrating, but with the right steps and a little patience, your phone will start working again and all your favorite apps will be updated to the latest versions. Remember to keep your device software updated as well, as manufacturers constantly improve system stability and compatibility with apps.

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