“Unfortunately, [app] has stopped.” If one app keeps crashing or freezing, the fix is usually quick. Work through these steps in order, testing the app after each.
1. Restart your phone
Google’s first step for apps that are not working is to restart the phone. It clears temporary glitches.
2. Update the app and the phone
- Open the Play Store, search for the app and tap Update if offered.
- Install system updates: Settings → System → Software update.
3. Check your storage
Apps crash when the phone is almost full. Free up space first. See phone storage full? How to free up space.
4. Force stop the app
Settings → Apps → [the app] → Force stop, then open it again.
5. Clear the app’s cache
Settings → Apps → [the app] → Storage & cache → Clear cache. Google calls this a short-term fix: it removes temporary files that may be corrupted, but cache builds up again over time.
6. Clear the app’s storage (data)
If it still crashes: Storage & cache → Clear storage (or Clear data). This deletes the app’s data, so you will need to log in again and settings reset. Google recommends deleting data inside the app first if you can. For WhatsApp, back up chats first.
7. Uninstall and reinstall
Uninstall the app, restart the phone, and install it again from Google Play.
8. Still crashing? Contact the developer
Google says that if problems continue after you have force stopped the app, you may need to contact its developer. The Play Store listing has a contact email. Check the app’s reviews too: if many people report the same crash, a fix is probably coming.
If the whole phone keeps crashing or restarting
- Free up storage and install system updates.
- Remove recently installed apps one by one.
- Use safe mode (on most phones, press and hold the power-off option) to see whether a downloaded app is the cause.
- As a last resort, back up and factory reset.
This guide was checked in October 2026. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.
Common questions
What is the difference between clear cache and clear storage?
Clear cache removes temporary files and is safe. Clear storage deletes all of the app’s data, like logging out and starting fresh.
Will reinstalling an app delete my data?
It removes the app’s data on the phone. Data saved to your account online (like WhatsApp backups or cloud-synced apps) can be restored after signing in.
Why do all my apps crash?
Low storage, a system bug or a problem update. Free up space, restart and install system updates. If it continues, back up and consider a factory reset.
Should I download an older version of the app?
No. Installing APKs from outside Google Play is risky. Wait for the developer’s fix instead.
