You’re not alone if you’ve encountered the “Google keeps stopping” error on your Android device. This issue often happens when the Google app or related services stop working as expected. The error can disrupt your daily use of Google Search, Google Assistant, and other essential features tied to your Google account. While it can be frustrating, the good news is that you can try several simple fixes before seeking professional help.
Why Does the Google App Keep Stopping on Android?
There are many reasons why Google might keep crashing or stopping on your Android device. Below are some common causes:
- Outdated Google App: Sometimes, Google apps need to be updated to function correctly. If the app isn’t updated regularly, it might crash.
- Corrupted Cache and Data: When your app’s cache becomes too large or corrupted, it can cause the app to misbehave, including crashes.
- Low Storage Space: When your device runs low on storage, apps, including Google, can stop working.
- Software Conflicts: Other apps or settings on your device could conflict with Google’s operations.
- Google Play Services Issues: The error might also be due to problems with Google Play Services, which is required for many Google apps to work correctly.
How to Fix a ‘Google Keeps Stopping’ Error on Android
Follow these steps individually, and I guarantee one will help resolve your Android device’s “Google Keeps Stopping” error.
1. Restart Your Android Device
The simplest solution is often the most effective. Restarting your device can help clear out temporary software glitches that could be causing the problem. This step essentially resets your device and clears any lingering issues.
To restart your Android device:
- Hold down the Power button until the power options appear.
- Tap Restart or Reboot.
After your phone restarts, reopen the Google app to see if the issue persists.
2. Clear Google App Cache and Data
Google stores cached files to speed up its performance, but these can become corrupted over time, leading to the “keeps stopping” error.
Here’s how to clear the cache and data:
- Open Settings on your Android device.
- Scroll down and tap Apps & notifications.
- Tap See all apps and find the Google app.
- Tap Storage & cache.
- Select Clear Cache and then Clear Data.
Note: Clearing data will reset the app, so you may have to log in again.
3. Update the Google App
Using an outdated version of the Google app is a frequent cause of crashes. To ensure that you’re using the latest version:
- Open the Google Play Store on your device.
- Search for the Google app.
- If an update is available, you’ll see an Update button. Tap it to update the app to the latest version.
Once updated, check if the Google app still keeps stopping.
4. Force Stop the Google App
Sometimes, forcing the app to stop can resolve temporary issues. Force-stopping the app will close all its background processes, allowing you to restart it fresh.
To force stop the Google app:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Apps & notifications.
- Find and tap Google.
- Tap Force Stop.
After force-stopping the app, reopen it and check if it functions correctly.
5. Free Up Storage Space
If your device’s storage is almost complete, it might affect how the Google app functions. It may crash when there’s not enough space for the app to run efficiently. To free up space:
- Go to Settings > Storage.
- Check how much free space is available and delete unnecessary apps, photos, videos, or files to free up storage.
Once you’ve cleared some space, restart your device and check if the issue persists.
5. Check for Android System Updates
Outdated system software can cause compatibility issues with Google apps, leading to frequent crashes. To check for updates:
- Go to Settings > System > Software Update.
- If there’s an update available, download and install it.
Updating your Android device will ensure it runs smoothly with the latest software fixes, potentially resolving issues with the Google app.
6. Reboot Your Phone in Safe Mode
If the Google app stops working after trying the basic fixes, try restarting your device in Safe Mode. Safe Mode disables third-party apps, which can help you identify if a recent app is causing the issue.
To boot your Android device into Safe Mode:
- Press and hold the Power button until the power options appear.
- Tap and hold Power off until you see the option to Reboot in Safe Mode.
- Tap OK to restart your phone in Safe Mode.
In Safe Mode, try using the Google app. If it works without crashing, the issue may be related to a third-party app. You can then uninstall recently installed apps to identify the cause.
7. Disable Battery Optimization for Google App
Battery optimization features can sometimes restrict Google’s background processes, causing crashes.
To disable battery optimization:
- Go to Settings > Battery > Battery optimization.
- Find Google and set it to Don’t optimize.
8. Perform a System Reset or Factory Reset
Performing a system or factory reset can solve deep software issues if all else fails.
- System Reset: This resets only your system settings, not your data. Go to Settings > System > Reset > Reset System Settings.
- Factory Reset: This will erase everything on your device, including apps and data. Make sure to back up important files before proceeding. Go to Settings > System > Reset > Factory Data Reset to factory reset.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
If the “Google Keeps Stopping” error continues even after performing all these troubleshooting steps, it may be time to contact Google Support for further assistance. They can provide in-depth help or let you know if there’s a known issue with the app or your device.
Alternatively, if your device seems to have underlying hardware issues or persistent software problems, consider visiting an authorized Android repair center. Sometimes, a deeper issue with your phone’s system can cause app crashes that can’t be resolved through basic troubleshooting.
Conclusion
The “Google Keeps Stopping” error is a common issue, but it can usually be resolved with a few straightforward steps. Start with basic troubleshooting, such as restarting the device and clearing the cache, and then move on to more advanced fixes if needed. Keeping your apps and system up to date and managing your device’s storage can minimize the chances of this error recurring. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact support or a repair professional.
Feel free to share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below. If you found this guide helpful, share it with others facing the same issue!
