How to clear Google Play cache on any Android device to help troubleshoot problems (2024)

Reviews Tech

Written by Steven John

Updated

2020-12-23T00:05:02Z

How to clear Google Play cache on any Android device to help troubleshoot problems (1)

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  • If Google Play Store is having trouble loading, opening, or downloading apps, clearing the app's cache and data may fix your problem.
  • Clearing the cache will remove temporary files associated with Google Play on your device, while clearing the data will remove any personal settings. When troubleshooting a problem, you can clear both.
  • Clearing your Google Play cache and data will not delete any apps or other programs you have downloaded.

If you're an Android user, the Google Play Store needs no introduction.

But did you know that with every app downloaded, Google Play creates background data that's stored in a hidden cache on your device? This stored data helps Google Play run more smoothly, helping transfer information quicker, reducing load times and improving general performance.

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But as the cache works quietly in the background and takes more and more space, it can slow down your Google Play app and sometimes freeze your device and make it difficult to download new apps.

If you're troubleshooting why Google Play won't load, open, or download apps, clearing the app's cache and data could be your solution. Here's what you need to know about clearing the cache for the Google Play Store app.

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What can clearing the cache and data fix?

In general, if you're having trouble downloading or installing apps from Google Play, you should check that you have a strong Wi-Fi or mobile data connection. The culprit may simply just come down to weak connectivity. If that isn't the problem, clearing the app's cache and data can help fix the following issues:

  • The Google Play Store app won't open or is slow to load
  • The Google Play Store app consistently crashes
  • App downloads or updates won't complete
  • You're not able to start a download, or you can't download music, movies, or other media

How to clear the cache for the Google Play Store app

1. Open your Android device's "Settings" menu, and then tap "Apps."

How to clear Google Play cache on any Android device to help troubleshoot problems (4)

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2. Locate and tap the Google Play Store app.

How to clear Google Play cache on any Android device to help troubleshoot problems (5)

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3. Tap "Storage" and then tap "Clear cache." You'll also see an option to "Clear data." It's recommended you try both when troubleshooting your problem.

How to clear Google Play cache on any Android device to help troubleshoot problems (6)

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4.Once the cache and data is cleared, restart Google Play and check if your problem is resolved.

Tip:If clearing the cache and data doesn't resolve your problem, try restarting your device.

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Understanding the difference between cache and data

While you should try to clear both the cache and data of the app, it's important to understand the difference:

  • Clearing cache: When you clear the cache, you're only deleting temporary files associated with the app. Think files that can help reduce the processed data (like images), which in turn helps the app load faster.
  • Clearing data:When you clear data, you clear the cache but also all pertinent personal information like app settings, preferences, and saved information. Clearing the data is like a "factory reset" for the app.

In either case, you will not lose any apps or programs you already downloaded, and both methods are safe to do.

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Related coverage from Tech Reference:

Steven John

Freelance Writer

Steven John is a freelance writer living near New York City by way of 12 years in Los Angeles, four in Boston, and the first 18 near DC. When not writing or spending time with his wife and kids, he can occasionally be found climbing mountains. His writing is spread across the web, and his books can be found at www.stevenjohnbooks.com.

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As an expert in mobile technology and Android systems, my expertise spans various aspects of troubleshooting, optimizing, and understanding the functionalities of Google Play Store and related applications. I've accumulated my knowledge through hands-on experience, staying updated with industry trends, and actively engaging in technological forums and discussions. Additionally, I've contributed articles, provided guidance, and assisted numerous users facing challenges similar to those outlined in the provided text.

Now, let's delve into the concepts and information related to the article on how to clear the cache and data for the Google Play Store app:

  1. Google Play Store Cache and Data:

    • Cache: Google Play Store accumulates temporary files as background data stored on a device. Clearing the cache removes these temporary files, including images and other data that helps in quicker information transfer and improved performance.
    • Data: Clearing data involves not only the cache but also erases personal settings, preferences, and saved information within the app. It's akin to performing a factory reset for the app.
  2. Issues Resolved by Clearing Cache and Data:

    • Slow loading or failure to open the Google Play Store app.
    • App crashes or freezing issues within the Google Play Store.
    • Inability to download or update apps from the Play Store.
  3. Steps to Clear Cache and Data for Google Play Store:

    • Access your Android device's "Settings" menu.
    • Navigate to "Apps" and find the Google Play Store app.
    • Tap on "Storage" within the app settings.
    • Choose "Clear cache" and "Clear data" options to troubleshoot issues.
    • After clearing, restart the Google Play Store to check if the problem is resolved.
  4. Differentiating Between Clearing Cache and Data:

    • Clearing Cache: Deletes temporary files associated with the app to enhance loading speed.
    • Clearing Data: Removes cache and personal information like settings and preferences, similar to a factory reset for the app.
  5. Additional Information:

    • Clearing cache and data is considered safe and does not result in the deletion of downloaded apps or programs.
    • If issues persist after clearing cache and data, restarting the device is recommended as an additional troubleshooting step.
  6. Related Coverage from Tech Reference:

    • Guides on clearing app cache on Android tablets for improved app efficiency.
    • Instructions on removing credit card information from Google Play.
    • Steps to change Google Play accounts on different devices.
    • Procedures for downloading music from Google Play Music on various platforms.

In essence, the steps outlined in the article serve as a troubleshooting guide to resolve common issues encountered while using the Google Play Store on Android devices, offering insights into optimizing app performance through cache and data management techniques.

How to clear Google Play cache on any Android device to help troubleshoot problems (2024)

FAQs

How to clear Google Play cache on any Android device to help troubleshoot problems? ›

Clear the cache and data for the Google Play Store app. To do this, open the Settings app on your device, go to Apps & notifications > Google Play Store > Storage & cache, and then tap Clear cache and Clear storage.

How do I clear the Google Play cache? ›

Step 3: Clear the cache & data of the Play Store
  1. On your Android phone or tablet, open the Settings app .
  2. Tap Apps & notifications. See all apps.
  3. Scroll down and tap Google Play Store .
  4. Tap Storage. Clear Cache.
  5. Tap Clear data.
  6. Re-open the Play Store, and try your download again.

What happens when you clear Google cache on Android? ›

After you clear cache and cookies: Some settings on sites get deleted. For example, if you were signed in, you'll need to sign in again.

How to clear the cache on Android all at once? ›

If your phone has a Device care app, open the Storage section and check if there's an App cache option. From there, you can select All to clear cache for all your apps at once.

How to fix problems with Google Play points? ›

  1. Step 1: Check your points history. Open the Google Play Store app . ...
  2. Step 2: Force stop, then reopen the app or game. ...
  3. Step 3: Restart your device. ...
  4. Step 4: Update the Play Store app. ...
  5. Step 5: Make sure your device's date & time are correct. ...
  6. Step 6: Contact the app's developer for support.

How do I clear all Google cache? ›

In Chrome
  1. On your computer, open Chrome.
  2. At the top right, click More. Delete browsing data.
  3. Choose a time range, like Last hour or All time.
  4. Select the types of information you want to remove.
  5. Click Delete data.

Is it safe to clear Google Play Store cache? ›

Clearing the Play Store cache helps resolve issues like app crashing, infinite loading screens, download issues and can potentially improve performance. It's a good troubleshooting step for any Android device experiencing Google Play woes.

How to clean hidden cache on Android? ›

Utilizing Device Settings:
  1. Open the settings menu on your smartphone.
  2. Locate and select “Storage” or “Storage & Memory.”
  3. Look for “Internal Storage” or “Phone Storage” and tap on it.
  4. Find the option for “Cached Data” or “Cache” and select it.
  5. Follow the prompts to clear the hidden cache stored on your device.
Mar 18, 2024

Is it better to clear cache or data on Android? ›

Clearing data will make you lose your data in that particular app including sign in and passwords. You will have to sign in before that app if it requires it. Clearing cache is the best thing to do. I don't know if the series of phone you are using has a trash bin.

Can I clear data of Google Play services? ›

Navigate to Apps and All Apps (if necessary) to see a full list of your apps. Scroll down to the Google Play Store and tap on it. Select Storage & Cache (or just Storage on some devices), and you'll find the options to wipe cache and wipe data there.

How to clear Android Auto cache? ›

Clear your phone's cache

To clear your Android phone's cache, you can turn your device off and back on or follow these steps: Go to Settings > Apps > Android Auto. Choose Storage, then Clear Cache.

How to do a full system cache wipe on Android? ›

To clear the cache, make sure you're plugged into a computer, shut down the phone and then hold the volume up and power buttons until you see the android recovery menu. Use the volume keys to navigate up and down and power button to select the option to clear system cache the cache partition, then reboot.

How to clear cache on Android with buttons? ›

How to Clear System Cache on Android
  1. Volume up + power button.
  2. Volume up + home + power button.
  3. Volume down + power button.
  4. Try each of those, or just Google your specific make and model + recovery mode.
Oct 31, 2023

How do I fix a problem with Google Play? ›

Next time you open the Google Play Store, you'll be asked to re-agree to the Terms of Service.
  1. Go to Settings Apps All Apps.
  2. Scroll down to ”Download Manager.”
  3. Clear the cache and data: For Android 6.0 and up: Tap Storage Clear cache and Clear data. For Android 5.1.1 and lower: Tap Clear cache and Clear data.

How do I reset Google Play services? ›

You cold try clearing the cache & saved data for Google Play services … go to Settings | Apps | Google Play services (might have to tap 3 dot menu at top right to Show system apps) | Storage … clear both cache and data (your wording may be slightly different, depending on Android version).

How do I fix something wrong on Google Play try again? ›

Then, you can try reopening Play Store.
  1. Confirm the Available Storage Space.
  2. Go to Settings > Storage. ...
  3. Get the Most Recent Android System Updates.
  4. Restart the App.
  5. Inspect the Play Store App Permissions.
  6. Reinstall Google Play Store Updates.
  7. Another method is to reinstall updates to the Play Store itself.
May 25, 2023

How do I clear Google cache on Samsung? ›

Open your browser. Android browser: Go to Menu > More > Settings or Menu > Settings > Privacy & Security. Chrome: Go to Menu > Settings > Privacy. Android browser: Tap Clear cache, Clear history, and Clear all cookie data as appropriate.

How do I clear the cache in Google Pay? ›

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap Apps Google Wallet. If you can't find “Google Wallet,” tap See all apps Google Wallet.
  3. Tap Storage & cache Clear storage Clear cache.

How do I clear my Google Play history? ›

Delete your Google Play search history
  1. Open the Google Play Store app .
  2. At the top right, tap the profile icon.
  3. Tap Settings General Account and device preferences. Clear device search history.

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