If you are having issues updating apps from the Google Play Store, there are a few common reasons why this may happen and some steps you can try to resolve it.
App Not Compatible with Your Device
One of the most common reasons an app won’t update is that the new version is not compatible with your device. App developers sometimes release updates that only support newer versions of Android or devices with specific hardware. If your device is too old or missing certain capabilities, the Play Store will prevent you from updating.
You can check if compatibility is the issue by looking at the app’s Play Store listing. Scroll down to the “Requirements” section and it will tell you if your device matches the app’s current minimum specifications. If your device falls below the requirements, you will not be able to update unless you get a newer compatible device.
Connection Issues
Problems with your internet connection can also lead to update failures. If you have a weak WiFi signal, poor cellular data coverage, or an unstable connection, the Play Store may not be able to download the updates reliably.
Try switching to a stronger internet connection and retry updating over WiFi if possible. Disconnect and reconnect to the WiFi or cellular data to refresh the connection. If you are still having trouble, check if other apps are updating properly – if not, there may be a temporary issue with your device’s ability to connect to the Play Store.
Play Store Errors
Sometimes the Play Store itself runs into errors that prevent updating. This could be due to a problem on Google’s servers or a bug in the latest version of the Play Store app.
Opening the Play Store app and checking for updates there may help resolve any errors. You can also try clearing the Play Store app’s cache and data through your device settings, which forces the app to re-sync with Google’s servers. As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall updates for the Play Store app.
App Requires Manual Update
In rare cases, an app developer may disable automatic updates and require users to manually update. This is usually done for major version updates that the developer wants users to opt into intentionally.
Navigate to the app’s Play Store listing and if there is an “Update” button available, tap it to manually trigger the latest update. If no update button is shown, you will have to wait for the developer to enable auto-updates again in a future release.
Device Has Auto-Update Restrictions
Some devices or profiles may have the Play Store’s auto-update feature restricted. For example, parental control settings could block updates or a device managed by an organization may limit auto-updates.
Check any parental control or device management apps on your device and look for settings related to the Play Store or app updates. If auto-updates are disabled, you will need to request they are re-enabled or manually trigger updates yourself.
App is No Longer Supported
In some cases, an app may no longer receive updates from the developer. This usually occurs when an app is discontinued and removed from active development. Even if newer versions appear on the Play Store, non-supported apps will fail to update.
Check the app’s Play Store listing for a notice indicating it is no longer supported or search online to confirm its development status. For non-supported apps, updating is not possible – you will have to find an alternative app to switch to instead.
Steps to Fix Play Store Update Issues
If you are unable to update your apps from the Play Store, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check app compatibility – Make sure your device meets the app’s minimum requirements.
- Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
- Force close and clear cache/data for the Play Store app.
- Try updating the app manually from its Play Store listing.
- Temporarily disable any auto-update restrictions.
- Confirm the app is still supported and in active development.
- Restart your device.
These steps should cover most common update issues. In some cases, you may need to contact the app developer for further assistance if all else fails.
Why Updates Are Important
It’s important to keep your apps updated through the Play Store for a few key reasons:
- Bug fixes – App updates often contain fixes for bugs and glitches in the current version.
- Security patches – Outdated apps may have vulnerabilities that are addressed in newer versions.
- New features – Updates add useful new capabilities and improvements to the app experience.
- Compatibility – Updates keep the app working with the latest OS and device releases.
- Compliance – Some apps must maintain updated versions to keep providing service.
Updating frequently is recommended for all apps, especially critical ones like messaging, email, banking, security, and utility apps. Using outdated app versions can introduce stability or security risks.
How to Update Apps Manually
When the Play Store is not automatically updating apps, you can trigger updates manually:
- Open the Play Store app.
- Tap the hamburger menu icon in the top left corner.
- Select “My apps & games.”
- Tap the “Update” button next to any app to update it.
- Tap “Accept” to proceed with the update.
- The update will download and install.
You can also update apps directly from their Play Store listing – look for the “Update” button on the listing page. Manual updates allow you to update any essential apps even when auto-updates fail.
Alternative App Stores
While the Google Play Store is the main way to update Android apps, there are some alternative stores you can use in certain situations:
Amazon Appstore
The Amazon Appstore offers many popular Android apps. You can install it on most Android devices and manage app updates through Amazon’s store instead.
ApkMirror
ApkMirror is a repository of APK installer files for Android apps. You can download the latest version of apps manually as APK files to update without using an app store.
F-Droid
F-Droid is an app store that offers open source Android apps. It provides another way to update free apps outside of the main Play Store.
Manufacturer App Store
Some device manufacturers run their own app stores for their devices. For example, Samsung devices can update apps through the Galaxy Store.
While less convenient than the Play Store, these alternative stores can help update apps if you are unable to use the Play Store for any reason.
Resetting the Play Store App
If all else fails, resetting the Play Store app itself may resolve stubborn update issues. Here are the steps to reset the Play Store app:
- Go to your device Settings > Apps.
- Select Google Play Store.
- Choose Storage.
- Tap Clear Cache and Clear Data.
- Confirm clearing the data.
- Open the Play Store app again.
Resetting will sign you out, clear data, and force the app to re-sync everything from Google’s servers. This process often fixes update problems caused by Play Store errors or connectivity issues.
Get Help from the Play Store Team
If you still cannot resolve Play Store update problems, you can contact Google’s Play Store support team for additional help:
- Open the Play Store app.
- Tap the hamburger menu icon.
- Go to Help & Support > Get Help.
- Choose the issue you are having.
- Select contact options to get assistance from Google.
Google can further troubleshoot the specific update issue you are experiencing and may have additional solutions to suggest.
Conclusion
Updating your apps through the Google Play Store is important to maintain performance, security, and compatibility. If you are unable to update, try the troubleshooting steps outlined to identify and resolve the underlying issue. Reach out to Google’s support team if you need extra help getting app updates working again.
Keeping your apps up-to-date will ensure you have the best experience and take full advantage of the latest features and improvements from developers. Make app updates a regular part of your device maintenance.