How to Update Google Play Services

Android apps not working? Try updating Google Play Services

By
Jennifer Karner
Jen Karner
Jennifer Karner
Writer
    Jen Karner is a former Lifewire writer and expert on VR and Android phones. Her work has appeared on AndroidCentral, iMore, WindowsCentral and others.
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    Updated on December 14, 2021
    Reviewed by
    Michael Barton Heine Jr
    Michael Heine headshot
    Reviewed by Michael Barton Heine Jr
      Michael Heine is a CompTIA-certified writer, editor, and Network Engineer with 25+ years' experience working in the television, defense, ISP, telecommunications, and education industries.
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      Apps

      What to Know

      • Android: Open Google Play services. If you see Deactivate, then the app is current. If you see Update, tap it to install.
      • Chromebook: Open the Chrome browser and go to the Google Play services app page.
      • If you're sure the app is up-to-date, you may need to clear the Google Play services cache and storage.

      Google Play services is a background app that's integral to downloading software and updates from the Google Play Store. If you receive an error message when attempting to load an app or game, you may have to manually update Google Play services or clear the cache.

      How to Update Google Play Services on Android

      To check if Google Play services is up-to-date, open the Google Play services app page in a web browser. If you see Deactivate, then your app is current. If you see Update, tap it to download and install the latest updates for Google Play services.

      The Deactivate button in Google Play

      How to Update Google Play Services on Chromebooks

      Some Chromebooks made after 2017 support Android apps and the Google Play Store. You can update Google Play Services on Chromebook by visiting the Google Play services app page in the Chrome browser.

      How to Troubleshoot Issues with Google Play Services

      If an app crashes or fails to load, you might get an error message saying that Google Play services has stopped. If you're sure the app is up-to-date, then you may need to clear the Google Play services cache and storage:

      1. Open your device's Settings.

      2. Tap Apps.

      3. Tap Google Play services.

        Google Play Services settings

      4. Tap Force Stop, then tap Storage.

      5. Tap Clear Cache, then tap Manage Storage.

      6. Tap Clear All Data.

        Clearing all data in Google Play Services

      You may have to wait up to five minutes for the changes to take effect. If you're having trouble downloading an app from Google Play, then you may need to repeat the steps above for the Play Store app as well.

      What Is Google Play Services?

      Google Play services won't show up if you search for it in the Play Store. It's a background service that provides core functionality for making sure your apps work properly. Thanks to Google Play services, you don't have to create new login credentials for every new app you install.

      If you're having problems with a particular app, it could be because Google Play services is out-of-date. Google Play services will generally update in the background without requiring you to do anything. However, you may occasionally receive a prompt to install updates. Tap the notification to go to the app page, and then tap Update as you would for any other app.

      Some apps require a persistent internet connection to communicate with Google Play services. Check your Wi-Fi or mobile connection and restart your device if you're experiencing issues with such apps.

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