How to Update Google Play Services

Android apps not working? Try updating Google Play Services

Three Android screens showing Google Play information page, search field, and App Info for Google Play Services
by Jennifer Karner
Jen Karner is a freelance tech writer and expert on VR and Android phones. Her work has appeared on AndroidCentral, iMore, WindowsCentral and others.
Updated October 15, 2019

Google Play Services is a background app that is 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.

Instructions in this article apply to smartphones and tablets running Android 7.0 or later. All steps are the same regardless of who made your device.

What Is Google Play Services?

Google Play Services won't show up if you search for it in the Play Store. It is 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If you're having problems with a particular app, it could be because Google Play Services is out-of-date.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 be prompted to install updates. If you receive a notification about available updates for Google Play Services, tap it to go to the app page, 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.

How to Update Google Play Services Manually

To check if Google Play Services is up-to-date, open the Google Play Services app page in a web browser to be taken to the Play Store app. 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.

To check if Google Play Services is up-to-date, open the Google Play Services app page in a web browser to be taken to the Play Store app.

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.

    Go to Settings > Apps > Google Play Services.

  4. Tap Force Stop, then tap Storage.

  5. Tap Clear Cache, then tap Manage Storage.

  6. Tap Clear All Data.

    Clear the cache and storage for the Google Play Services app.

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.