Are you tired of your Android apps closing unexpectedly? It can be frustrating when you’re in the middle of something important and suddenly your app crashes. Luckily, there are several simple fixes you can try before giving up on your favorite apps.
To fix Android apps that keep crashing, first update both the problematic app and your Android System WebView through the Google Play Store, then restart your device to apply the changes. This solution has helped many users who experienced widespread app crashes, as updating Android System WebView can fix issues that affect multiple apps at once.
If updating doesn’t solve the problem, try clearing the app’s cache and data or uninstalling and reinstalling the app. These steps often fix corrupted files that cause crashes. For more stubborn issues, checking for system updates might be necessary as outdated Android software can sometimes conflict with newer apps.
Why Android Apps Keep Crashing
App crashes are common and can happen for several reasons:
- Corrupted app cache or data
- Outdated app version
- Low storage or memory
- Software bugs after a system update
- Network connectivity issues
- Conflicting background apps
(Source: Android Authority, iMobie)
🧩 Quick Fixes for Crashing Apps
1. Restart Your Device
A simple restart can fix temporary system glitches that cause apps to crash.
- Hold the power button → Tap “Restart.”
- After reboot, open the app again to see if it works properly.
2. Force Stop the App
If an app freezes or won’t open:
- Go to Settings → Apps → [App name]
- Tap Force Stop
- Reopen the app
This clears temporary processes that may be causing instability.
3. Clear App Cache and Data
Corrupted cache files are one of the most common causes of app crashes.
- Go to Settings → Apps → [App name] → Storage & cache
- Tap Clear Cache
- If the issue persists, tap Clear Storage / Clear Data (this resets the app).
⚠️ Note: Clearing data will log you out of the app, so make sure you remember your credentials.
4. Update the App
Outdated versions may have bugs or compatibility issues.
- Open Google Play Store → Manage apps & device → Updates available
- Tap Update All or update the specific app.
5. Check for Android System Updates
Sometimes the issue comes from the Android OS itself.
- Go to Settings → System → System update
- Tap Check for updates
- Install any available updates.
6. Free Up Storage Space
Low storage can cause apps to misbehave or crash.
- Delete unused apps, photos, or videos.
- Move large files to Google Drive or an SD card.
- Keep at least 1–2 GB of free space for smooth performance.
7. Check Internet Connection
Some apps (like YouTube, Instagram, or Gmail) crash when the connection is unstable.
- Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
- Restart your router if needed.
8. Reinstall the App
If none of the above works:
- Uninstall the app.
- Restart your phone.
- Reinstall it from the Play Store.
This ensures you have a clean, up-to-date copy.
9. Boot into Safe Mode (Advanced)
Safe Mode disables third-party apps to help identify conflicts.
- Press and hold the power button → Touch and hold “Power off” → Tap “OK” to reboot in Safe Mode.
If the app works fine in Safe Mode, another app is likely causing the crash.
10. Reset App Preferences
If system settings are blocking the app:
- Go to Settings → Apps → See all apps → Menu (⋮) → Reset app preferences
- Confirm.
This resets disabled apps, permissions, and restrictions without deleting data.
11. Factory Reset (Last Resort)
If crashes persist across multiple apps, your OS may be corrupted.
- Back up your data.
- Go to Settings → System → Reset → Factory data reset.
- Confirm and reboot.
⚠️ This erases all data — only use it if all else fails.
🧠 Bonus Tips
- Avoid installing apps from unverified sources (APK files).
- Keep Google Play Services updated — many apps depend on it.
- Regularly restart your phone to clear background memory.
✅ Quick Summary
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| App crashes randomly | Clear cache/data |
| App won’t open | Force stop or reinstall |
| Crashes after update | Update or reinstall app |
| Multiple apps crashing | Check system update or reset |
| Network-based apps failing | Check Wi-Fi/mobile data |
🧾 Final Thoughts
Most app crashes are caused by corrupted cache or outdated versions, and can be fixed in minutes.
Start with clearing cache, then move on to updates and reinstallation if needed.
If multiple apps crash simultaneously, your Android system may need an update or reset.
Key Takeaways
- Update both the crashing app and Android System WebView to fix most app crashes quickly.
- Clear app cache and data or reinstall apps to resolve corruption issues causing apps to crash.
- Keep your Android system updated to prevent app compatibility problems and improve overall stability.
Understanding Android App Crashes
App crashes on Android can disrupt your experience and cause frustration. These unexpected shutdowns happen when something goes wrong with an app’s code or when your device can’t handle certain operations.
Common Causes of App Crashes
Apps often crash due to outdated software. Your Android operating system or the app itself might need updating to fix bugs that cause crashes.
Memory issues are another common culprit. When your phone runs low on storage or RAM, apps may shut down unexpectedly. Too many background apps can worsen this problem.
Compatibility problems happen when apps aren’t designed for your specific Android version. This is why some apps work on newer phones but crash on older models.
Corrupted app data can trigger crashes too. When an app’s cache or stored data becomes damaged, the app may fail to load properly.
Network connectivity issues can make online apps crash. Poor connections can prevent apps from getting the data they need to function correctly.
Interpreting Crash Messages and Logs
Android displays error messages when apps crash. These messages often contain clues about what went wrong. Terms like “has stopped” or “not responding” point to different types of failures.
An unhandled exception is a common reason for crashes. This happens when the app encounters a situation its code wasn’t prepared to handle.
Error logs provide deeper insights for troubleshooting. You can view these logs through developer options in your phone’s settings, though understanding them may require technical knowledge.
Some crashes produce specific error codes. Googling these codes can help find solutions that others have discovered for the same problem.
Pay attention to when crashes happen. If they occur after specific actions, this pattern can help identify the cause.
Initial Troubleshooting Steps
When Android apps crash repeatedly, a few simple fixes can often solve the problem without needing technical knowledge. These solutions focus on restarting your device, updating software, and checking your internet connection.
Restarting Your Android Device
Restarting your phone is the quickest and most effective first step to fix apps that keep crashing. This simple action clears temporary memory and stops background processes that might cause conflicts.
For a standard restart:
- Press and hold the power button until the menu appears
- Tap “Restart” and wait for your phone to boot up again
If your phone is frozen or unresponsive, try a forced restart:
- Press and hold the power button for about 30 seconds
- On some phones, you may need to hold the power and volume down buttons together
Many Android users don’t realize that most app crashes can be fixed with this basic step. The restart gives your phone a fresh start without deleting any data.
Checking for Android System Updates
Outdated Android software often causes apps to crash or behave oddly. Phone manufacturers regularly release updates that fix bugs and improve system stability.
To check for system updates:
- Open Settings
- Scroll to System or Software Update
- Tap Check for updates
- If available, download and install updates
The Android System WebView component needs special attention. This system app lets other apps display web content and often causes crashes when outdated.
To update Android System WebView:
- Open the Google Play Store
- Search for “Android System WebView”
- Tap “Update” if available
After updating, restart your phone to apply all changes properly. System updates can take time, so connect to Wi-Fi and ensure your battery has enough charge.
Examining Internet Connection Issues
Poor internet connectivity often triggers app crashes, especially with apps that need constant online access. Many users don’t connect these two problems, but they’re closely related.
Try these fixes:
- Toggle airplane mode on and off to reset connections
- Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if one works better
- Turn off your Wi-Fi router for a few minutes, then turn it back on
If specific apps crash when using Wi-Fi but work on mobile data, your router might need attention. Try resetting it by unplugging it for 30 seconds.
For persistent connection problems, check if your phone has a network settings reset option:
- Go to Settings
- Find System or General Management
- Look for Reset or Reset Options
- Select Reset Network Settings
This option resets all network connections but doesn’t delete personal data.
Managing Apps to Prevent Crashes
Regular app maintenance helps keep your Android device running smoothly. Taking proactive steps with your apps can prevent many common crash issues before they happen.
Updating Apps to the Latest Version
App updates fix bugs and improve stability. Outdated apps are more likely to crash because they might not work well with the latest Android version.
To update your apps:
- Open the Google Play Store
- Tap your profile icon in the top right
- Select “Manage apps & device”
- Look for “Updates available”
- Tap “Update all” or update specific apps
You can also set up automatic updates. Go to Play Store settings and choose “Auto-update apps” over Wi-Fi to keep apps current without using mobile data.
Some apps might crash if you’re using a beta version. If this happens, consider switching back to the stable release through the Play Store.
Clearing App Cache and Data
Apps collect temporary files (cache) that can sometimes cause problems. Clearing this data often fixes crashes without removing your personal information.
To clear cache:
- Go to Settings > “Apps” or “Applications”
- Select the problematic app
- Tap “Storage” or “Storage & cache”
- Tap “Clear cache”
If the app still crashes, you can try clearing data. This removes all saved information including login details and preferences, essentially resetting the app to its original state.
Be careful when clearing data for messaging or banking apps, as you’ll need to sign in again. Some apps may require you to reconfigure your settings after clearing data.
Inspecting App Permissions
Apps need certain permissions to work properly. When permissions are blocked or mismatched, crashes can happen.
Check app permissions by:
- Opening Settings > “Apps”
- Selecting the problem app
- Tapping “Permissions”
Look for any denied permissions that the app might need. For example, a camera app needs camera access, and a navigation app needs location permissions.
Sometimes after Android updates, permission settings change. Review them regularly, especially if an app suddenly starts crashing.
Be cautious about apps requesting unnecessary permissions. An app asking for too many permissions might have poor coding, making it more crash-prone.
Uninstalling and Reinstalling Troublesome Apps
When updates and clearing data don’t work, reinstalling the app often solves persistent crashes.
To uninstall an app:
- Press and hold the app icon
- Select “Uninstall” or drag to the uninstall area
- Confirm the removal
After uninstalling, restart your device before reinstalling. This clears any leftover files that might cause problems.
When reinstalling, download the app from the official Play Store rather than third-party sources. Official versions are tested for compatibility with your device.
If the same app keeps crashing after reinstalling, the app might not be compatible with your device or Android version. Consider finding an alternative app with similar features.
Advanced Solutions for Persistent Crashes
When basic fixes don’t solve app crashes on your Android device, it’s time to try more powerful solutions. These methods can help fix stubborn problems that resist simple troubleshooting.
Utilizing Android System Repair Tools
Android repair tools can fix system-level issues causing apps to crash. Several trusted tools are available for this purpose.
For Samsung devices, Smart Switch software helps repair system files without data loss. Connect your phone to a computer, run the program, and select “Emergency Software Recovery” to fix corrupted files.
Google’s own Android SDK Platform Tools offers ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands that can solve complex problems. You need to enable developer options on your phone first.
Third-party repair tools like Dr.Fone and Tenorshare ReiBoot for Android can also help. These programs can:
- Fix system crashes
- Repair boot loops
- Solve app compatibility issues
- Fix corrupted system files
Always download these tools from official websites to avoid malware.
Performing a Wipe Cache Partition
Cache files can become corrupted and cause apps to crash. Wiping the cache partition removes these temporary files without deleting your personal data.
To wipe cache partition:
- Power off your device completely
- Hold Volume Up + Power button (or Volume Up + Home + Power on older models)
- Use volume buttons to navigate to “Wipe Cache Partition”
- Press Power button to select it
- Confirm and wait for the process to complete
- Restart your device
This method is especially helpful when apps crash after system updates. The system will rebuild clean cache files as needed.
Different Android brands may have slightly different recovery menu steps. Check your phone’s manual if you can’t find the option.
Force Closing and Disabling Apps
Sometimes apps conflict with each other or become stuck in a bad state. Force closing or disabling problematic apps can help resolve persistent crashes.
To force close an app:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Find and tap the problematic app
- Tap “Force Stop”
- Restart the app to see if it works properly
For pre-installed apps that can’t be uninstalled, try disabling them:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Select the troublesome app
- Tap “Disable” (if available)
- Confirm when prompted
Disabled apps won’t run in the background or update, which can prevent conflicts with other apps. You can always re-enable them later if needed.
Consider checking which apps start automatically at boot. Too many startup apps can cause performance issues and crashes.
Conducting a Factory Reset
When all else fails, a factory reset may be your last resort. This will erase all data and return your device to its original state.
Important: Back up all your important data before proceeding. This includes:
- Photos and videos
- Contacts
- Messages
- Documents
- App data
To perform a factory reset:
- Go to Settings → System → Reset options
- Select “Erase all data (factory reset)”
- Enter your PIN/pattern if prompted
- Tap “Erase everything”
After reset, your phone will restart and you’ll need to set it up again. This often solves persistent app crashes by removing corrupted software.
If a factory reset doesn’t help, the problem might be hardware-related. In that case, contact your device manufacturer or visit a repair center.
Preventative Measures and Best Practices
Taking steps to prevent app crashes saves time and frustration. These simple actions can keep your Android device running smoothly and reduce the chances of apps unexpectedly closing.
Regularly Updating the Android Operating System
System updates fix bugs that cause apps to crash. Check for updates by going to Settings > System > System Update on most Android phones.
Many app crashes happen because of outdated operating systems. New Android versions improve how your phone handles memory and resources.
Set your phone to update automatically at night:
- Go to Settings
- Tap System
- Select System Update
- Tap the three dots in the corner
- Choose “Update settings”
- Enable “Auto update”
This works for most Android phones including Samsung devices. If you’re experiencing frequent crashes, checking for a system update should be your first step.
Managing Storage and Resources
Low storage space often causes apps to crash. Keep at least 1GB of free space on your device at all times.
Quick ways to free up space:
- Delete unused apps
- Clear app caches (Settings > Apps > Select App > Storage > Clear Cache)
- Move photos and videos to cloud storage
- Delete downloaded files
Background processes can drain resources needed by other apps. Close apps you’re not using, especially resource-heavy ones like games and Google Chrome.
Some Samsung devices offer a “Device care” feature that helps optimize resources. Use it regularly to keep your phone running smoothly.
Staying Informed on Outdated Apps and Known Issues
Set all apps to update automatically through Google Play Store. Many crashes happen because of bugs that developers have already fixed in newer versions.
To enable automatic updates:
- Open Google Play Store
- Tap your profile icon
- Go to Settings
- Select Network preferences
- Choose “Auto-update apps”
Follow tech news sites or forums where Android users discuss problems with specific apps. This helps you know if others face similar issues.
Some apps have known bugs that cause crashes. Before installing a new app, read recent reviews to check if users report stability problems. An outdated app may crash because it’s no longer compatible with your system.
Support and Resources for Android Users
When your apps start crashing, knowing where to get help can save you time and frustration. Android users have several options for support that can address app problems quickly.
Accessing Help Through Google Play
Google Play offers several ways to fix crashing apps. If your apps keep failing, you can visit Google Play Help for official troubleshooting guides.
The Play Store has a built-in help section accessible through the menu icon. Look for “Help & feedback” to find solutions for common problems.
For persistent issues, try these steps:
- Check the “My apps & games” section for available updates
- Look for the “!” symbol next to apps that need attention
- Read the “What’s New” section in app listings to see if developers have fixed known crashes
Google Play also offers email support and a virtual chat assistant for more complicated problems that basic troubleshooting can’t solve.
Contacting App Developers for Support
App developers are often the best source for fixing specific app crashes. Most apps include contact information in their Play Store listing.
To reach developers:
- Open the Google Play Store
- Find the problematic app
- Scroll down to “Developer Contact” or “Visit Website”
When reporting crashes, include specific details:
- Your device model
- Android version
- Steps that trigger the crash
- Any error messages you see
Many developers respond faster when users provide screenshots or screen recordings showing the exact problem. This helps them understand what’s happening on your specific device.
Leveraging Community Forums and Feedback
Online communities can provide quick solutions when apps crash. Reddit threads often contain fixes from other users experiencing the same problems.
The official Android Help Forum connects users with Google experts and experienced community members. They can help with widespread app crashes affecting many Android devices.
Other helpful communities include:
- XDA Developers forums
- Android-focused subreddits
- Tech support Discord servers
- Twitter (by searching for the app name + “crash”)
Many users on these platforms share effective fixes that aren’t found in official documentation. For example, some community members discovered that uninstalling WebView updates could fix multiple crashing apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Android apps can crash for various reasons, from device issues to software conflicts. Here are solutions to the most common app problems that users face.
What steps can I take to prevent my Android apps from crashing unexpectedly?
To prevent app crashes, keep your apps updated. New updates often fix bugs that cause crashes.
Clear your app cache regularly. Go to Settings > Apps > Select the app > Storage > Clear Cache.
Don’t run too many apps at once. Close apps you’re not using to free up memory.
Check your storage space. Apps may crash if your phone is nearly full.
How can I troubleshoot app crashes on a Samsung Android device?
Samsung users can fix most app crashes by restarting their device. Press the power button for about 30 seconds until your phone restarts.
Check for system updates. Go to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install.
Try booting in Safe Mode to see if the problem is with an app or the system. Press and hold the power button, then touch and hold “Power off” until you see “Safe mode.”
Why are my Android apps closing spontaneously, and how can I fix it?
Apps may close by themselves due to memory issues. Close background apps you’re not using.
Poor internet connection can cause apps to crash. Try turning off your Wi-Fi or mobile data for a few minutes, then turn it back on.
Battery saving modes sometimes restrict app functions. Check if your power saving settings are affecting app performance.
How do I diagnose the cause of an app crash on Android?
Check if the problem affects one app or many. If it’s just one app, the issue is likely with that specific app.
Look for patterns. Does the app crash only when using certain features or at specific times?
Check app reviews to see if others are having the same problem. This helps determine if it’s a widespread issue.
Use Developer Options to view crash logs. Enable Developer Options in Settings, then look for “Take bug report” after a crash.
Can software updates cause Android apps to crash, and how can they be resolved?
Yes, system updates can sometimes cause app crashes. Many users found that updating the Android System WebView fixed widespread app crashes.
To fix this, open Google Play Store, search for “Android System WebView” and update it if available.
Sometimes rolling back to a previous version of an app can help until developers release a fix. You can find older APK versions on trusted websites.
What are the common resolutions for Google app crashes on Android?
For Google app issues, clearing the app’s cache and data often helps. Go to Settings > Apps > Google > Storage > Clear Cache and Clear Data.
Update the Google app from the Play Store. Outdated versions may conflict with your current Android system.
Check if your Google account is syncing properly. Go to Settings > Accounts > Google and make sure sync is working correctly.
If all else fails, uninstall updates for the Google app and let it reinstall the stable version.
