Frustrated by “Google Play Services Has Stopped”?
The dreaded “Google Play Services has stopped” error can leave you stranded without access to essential apps and features. But fear not, Android user! This guide provides various solutions to get your Google Play Services back on track.
If the Google Play services has stopped working and you cannot install Apps from Google Play, you may need to reset the app on your Android phone or tablet. Frequent updates to Google Play services may have corrupted the files.
Be sure you have the correct Google Gmail account set up in your Accounts on your Android device and when you access Google Play, you are using the correct Gmail account. Sometimes an app can become corrupted with missing or damaged files. When this happens, you should reinstall the app.
Understanding the Problem:
While the exact cause can vary, common culprits include:
- Temporary glitches: Minor software hiccups can trigger the error.
- Outdated apps: Google Play Services and related apps need regular updates.
- Corrupted data: Damaged app data can disrupt normal functioning.
- Storage issues: Insufficient storage space can cause conflicts.
Solutions to Get You Back on Track:
1. Restart Your Device:
This simple step often resolves temporary glitches. Simply power off your device and restart it.
2. Update Google Play Services and Related Apps:
Open the Google Play Store, tap your profile icon, and select “Manage apps & device.” Update Google Play Services, Google Play Store, and other Play Services-dependent apps like Gmail or Maps.
3. Clear Cache and Data:
For Google Play Services and Google Play Store:
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Search for the app and tap on it.
- Tap “Storage” and then “Clear Cache” and “Clear Data.”
- Restart your device.
4. Check Your Internet Connection:
Ensure you have a stable internet connection, as Google Play Services relies on it to function properly.
5. Check Your Device’s Date and Time:
Incorrect date and time settings can cause conflicts with certain apps. Set them to automatic for accuracy. How to set date and time on Android?
6. Force Stop Google Play Services:
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Search for Google Play Services and tap on it.
- Tap “Force Stop”.
- Restart your device.
7. Uninstall Updates for Google Play Services (Advanced):
Since this app is usually pre-installed on most Android phones and tablets, you cannot fix it by simply doing a reinstall. First you need to clear out any updated files, cache and data. – How to delete or uninstall apps on Android?
Caution: Proceed with caution as this might require re-downloading large files.
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Search for Google Play Services and tap on it.
- Tap the three dots at the top right corner and select “Uninstall updates.”
- Restart your device.
8. Check Available Storage:
Make sure you have enough free storage space on your device. Delete unnecessary files or consider expanding storage if needed. How to free up space on Android?
9. Factory Reset (Last Resort):
This erases all your data. Back up your important files before proceeding. Only use this option if all else fails. How to factory reset Android?
Additional Tips:
- Search online for solutions specific to your device model and Android version.
- Consult the official Google Play Help Center for detailed troubleshooting steps.
- Consider seeking professional help if the issue persists.
Remember, patience is key! Try these solutions one by one and restart your device after each step. With a little troubleshooting, you should be back to enjoying your Android experience in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Google Play Services Has Stopped
This frustrating error can leave you confused and unable to access important apps. Here are some answers to common questions:
General:
- Q: What does this error mean?
- A: It indicates a problem with Google Play Services, a core component for many Android apps and features.
- Q: Why did this happen?
- A: Common causes include temporary glitches, outdated apps, corrupted data, storage issues, or incorrect settings.
- Q: Will I lose my data?
- A: Most solutions won’t affect your data. However, a factory reset (last resort) will erase everything, so back up first.
Troubleshooting:
- Q: What should I try first?
- A: Restart your device. This often resolves minor glitches.
- Q: How do I update apps?
- A: Open the Play Store, tap your profile, then “Manage apps & device.” Update Google Play Services, Play Store, and related apps.
- Q: How do I clear cache and data?
- A: Go to Settings > Apps, find the app (e.g., Play Store), tap Storage, then “Clear Cache” and “Clear Data.” Restart your device.
- Q: What if I have internet connection issues?
- A: Ensure you have a stable WIFI or mobile data connection, as Google Play Services relies on it.
- Q: Should I check the date and time settings?
- A: Yes, incorrect settings can cause conflicts. Set them to automatic for accuracy.
- Q: What’s force stopping?
- A: It temporarily shuts down the app. Go to Settings > Apps, find the app, and tap “Force Stop.” Restart your device.
- Q: When should I consider a factory reset?
- A: Only as a last resort after trying other solutions. Remember to back up your data first!
Advanced:
- Q: Can I uninstall updates for Google Play Services?
- A: Yes, but with caution. Go to Settings > Apps, find the app, tap the three dots, and select “Uninstall updates.” Restart your device. However, this might require re-downloading large files.
