Android Apps Keep Crashing? 10 Quick Fixes

Quick Fix

Force stop the crashing app by going to Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Force Stop. Then clear the app’s cache from the same menu under Storage > Clear Cache. If that doesn’t work, try updating the app from the Google Play Store or restarting your phone.

Understanding the Android Apps Crashing Issue

Android apps crashing can manifest as apps closing unexpectedly, freezing, or showing “App has stopped” errors. This frustrating issue can affect single apps or multiple applications on your device.

Common causes include corrupted app cache, outdated app versions, insufficient storage space, Android WebView issues, software bugs, or hardware limitations on older devices. Sometimes a recent update to Android or an app can introduce compatibility issues.

This guide covers solutions for all Android versions and brands including Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, and others.

Method 1: Force Stop and Restart the App

1. Open Settings > Apps (or Application Manager)
2. Find and tap the crashing app
3. Tap Force Stop
4. Confirm by tapping OK
5. Wait a few seconds and reopen the app
6. This clears the app from memory and gives it a fresh start

Method 2: Clear App Cache

1. Go to Settings > Apps
2. Select the problematic app
3. Tap Storage (or Storage & cache)
4. Tap Clear Cache
5. Do NOT tap Clear Data unless necessary (this deletes app settings)
6. Reopen the app and test

Method 3: Update the App

1. Open the Google Play Store
2. Tap your profile icon > Manage apps & device
3. Tap Updates available
4. Find the crashing app and tap Update
5. Or tap Update all to update everything
6. Developers frequently release fixes for crashing issues

Method 4: Update Android WebView

1. Many apps use WebView to display content
2. Open Google Play Store
3. Search for Android System WebView
4. Tap Update if available
5. Also search and update Google Chrome
6. Restart your phone after updating

Method 5: Restart Your Phone

1. Press and hold the Power button
2. Tap Restart (or Power off, then turn back on)
3. Wait for the phone to fully boot
4. Test the crashing apps
5. A restart clears temporary memory issues

Method 6: Free Up Storage Space

1. Go to Settings > Storage
2. Check available space (keep at least 10-15% free)
3. Tap Free up space or manually delete:
4. – Old downloads and files
5. – Unused apps
6. – Cached data
7. Low storage can cause apps to crash

Method 7: Reinstall the App

1. Long-press the app icon and select Uninstall
2. Confirm uninstallation
3. Restart your phone
4. Open Google Play Store and reinstall the app
5. Sign in and set up the app again
6. This gives you a completely fresh installation

Method 8: Boot into Safe Mode

1. Press and hold the Power button
2. Long-press Power off until Safe mode prompt appears
3. Tap OK to enter Safe Mode
4. Test if apps still crash (third-party apps won’t load)
5. If apps work in Safe Mode, a third-party app is causing conflicts
6. Restart normally and uninstall recently added apps

Preventing Future Issues

• Keep all apps updated through Play Store
• Maintain at least 2-3GB of free storage
• Regularly clear app caches (monthly)
• Update Android when new versions are available
• Avoid installing apps from unknown sources
• Restart your phone weekly to clear memory

FAQ

Why do all my apps keep crashing?

If multiple apps crash, the issue is likely system-wide: low storage, Android WebView problems, or a recent system update. Try updating WebView and freeing storage first.

Can a virus cause apps to crash?

Yes, malware can cause instability. Run a scan with Google Play Protect (Play Store > Profile > Play Protect) and consider installing a reputable antivirus.

Will clearing data fix app crashes?

Often yes, but clearing data deletes your settings, login info, and app data. Try clearing cache first, which is less destructive.

Why does one specific app keep crashing?

It could be a bug in the app, incompatibility with your Android version, or corrupted app data. Check app reviews in Play Store to see if others have the same issue.

Should I factory reset my phone?

Only as a last resort after trying all other methods. Factory reset erases everything, so back up your data first.

How do I report a crashing app?

When an app crashes, Android often shows a “Send feedback” option. You can also leave a review in Play Store or contact the developer directly.