15 Ways to Fix ‘Something Went Wrong’ Error in Play Store (2024)

Nowadays, the wide variety of smartphone apps makes life easier. Plus, there’s the Google Play Store on Android. With a few clicks, this digital platform allows you download and access many available mobile software tools.

But what do you do when you have problems opening the app? You might want to abandon it. Or, at least, wait a few minutes to try the app again. There's no need to worry; this article discusses 15 ways to fix the 'Something went wrong' error in Play Store.

15 Ways to Fix Play Store Error Showing 'Something Went Wrong'

So, how do you fix the 'Something Went Wrong' error in Play Store while trying to use it? Let’s check 15 straightforward ways.

1. Check Your Phone’s Internet Connection

The first thing to note is Google Play Store is an online platform. So, no matter what you intend to use it for, you need the Internet.

We recommend you use a WiFi network via a router or any other device. Else, you can use mobile data on your smartphone. Just make sure to check with your network provider that you still have access to the Internet. Then, you can try reopening Play Store.

2. Confirm the Available Storage Space

Installing and operating apps typically takes up space on your Android device. So, you need adequate phone storage before downloading apps. Plus, Play Store detects the available storage on your phone and prevents app installs when space is low.

If your device storage is insufficient, you'll likely receive a notification to free up space. On the other hand, you can check your phone settings to be sure.

Go to Settings > Storage. The next page will show you the total storage capacity of your device and the available space.

3. Get the Most Recent Android System Updates

Another way to fix the 'Something Went Wrong' error in Play Store is to upgrade your device. Up-to-date Android systems often integrate fixes and improvements to deal with bugs or software glitches common to smartphones.

4. Restart the App

One way to deal with app errors on Android is to close the app and reopen it. This simple step works like a refresh button.

5. Inspect the Play Store App Permissions

Like other regular Android apps, Play Store requires you to accept various permissions to allow smooth operation. Make sure to enable

6. Reinstall Google Play Store Updates

Another method is to reinstall updates to the Play Store itself. Locate the app from your phone settings, and select the App Info option. Click the three vertical dots at the top right-hand corner of the screen. Follow the onscreen prompt to finish the process.

7. Reboot Your Android Device

Other times, your phone may need to restart to deal with minor system glitches. Press and hold the Power button, depending on your particular phone model. When prompted, select Shut Down or Restart. In some other devices, you can press the Power button much longer to force a restart.

8. Wipe Existing Cache and Data from Google Play Services

Sometimes, to fix the ‘Something went wrong’ error in Play Store, you’ll need to check the status of Google Play services, which differs from Play Store. This comprehensive marketplace provides extensive online support for Android systems, from apps, movies, and TV, to gaming, eBooks, and streaming. Plus, it controls system updates via Play Store, making it vital.

You can clear the app cache and data by locating Google Play Services from the extensive app list and following the prompt.

9. Delete and Re-login to Your Google Account

Sometimes, using multiple Google accounts on one device affects app installation. You can remove your primary accountand re-add it to use Play Store without errors.

10. Login with a Different Account

Similarly, if you can’t access your main account on Play Store, you can add another account to continue your tasks. Delete that particular account, and log in to the Play Store app with another valid Google Account.

11. Fix Any Date and Time Mismatch

Play Store may develop app installation issues if your phone operates with the wrong date and time relative to your time zone. You can manually update your phone settings. Or you can let the date and time automatically reflect as you change your location.

12. Clear the Play Store App Cache and Data

Another data storage issue can result from the Play Store app. Locate Google Play Store > Storage. You can choose toClear Cacheonly, Clear Data, or even both to free up enough space and refresh the app.

13. Install Apps through Your Web Browser

Besides Play Store, there are other online platforms for adding Android apps to your phone. So, you can search online for any specific app.Be careful, however, to visit the official website of official app providers or other trusted app platforms or vendors.

14. Use Other Play Store Alternatives

Some smartphone brands have their trademark platforms for getting up-to-date apps. Examples are Samsung Galaxy Store and Huawei AppGallery. Any of these can serve as suitable replacements for the Play Store.

15. Reset Your Smartphone to Factory Settings

Of the numerous ways to fix the 'Something went wrong' error in Play Store on Android, this step is a last resort. But only if the previous actions don't work. Then, you’ll have to factory reset your device and restore the initial settings.

Final Thoughts

For Android users, there are, at present, numerous ways of installing new apps on your smartphone. Nevertheless, Play Store is still the most prominent Android app platform. Still, the app is not without its issues.

An example is when the app refuses to load or crashes while in use. You now have multiple ways to fix this ‘Something Went Wrong’ error in Play Store. Apply any of the steps mentioned above. Surely you'll be back downloading apps in no time.

About Carlcare

Carlcare is the Official After-Sales Repair Centre for TECNO, Infinix and Itel Smartphones. We make use of original accessories only for repairs, and when you choose to repair at Carlcare you’re covered by warranty for a period (should the issue reoccur), unlike with other external repair options.