Google Play is not showing available system app updates [U]
Quick Read
Troubleshooting Google Play When System App Updates Are Not Showing
When system apps on your Android device do not receive updates through the Google Play Store, it can be a frustrating experience. The Google Play Store is designed to automatically update installed apps, but sometimes this function may not work as expected. In such cases, you can follow the troubleshooting steps below to resolve the issue.
Check for Internet Connection
Make sure your device is connected to the internet. Wi-Fi or mobile data can be used for this purpose. If you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network, try connecting to the internet via mobile data or vice versa.
Restart Google Play Store
Force quit the Google Play Store app and then restart it. This can help resolve minor glitches that may be preventing your apps from updating. To force quit the Google Play Store, follow these steps:
For Android 8.0 Oreo and later:
1. Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps.
2. Find and tap on ‘Google Play Store’ in the list.
3. Tap on ‘Force stop’ at the bottom of the screen.
For earlier Android versions:
1. Press and hold the ‘Home’ button.
2. Tap on the ‘Apps’ tab at the bottom of the screen.
3. Swipe left to find and select ‘Google Play Store’.
4. Tap on ‘Force Stop’ at the bottom of the screen.
Clear Google Play Store Cache and Data
If force quitting the app didn’t work, try clearing its cache and data. This process will remove any corrupted files that might be causing the issue. To do this:
For Android 8.0 Oreo and later:
1. Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps.
2. Find and tap on ‘Google Play Store’ in the list.
3. Tap on ‘Storage & cache’.
4. Tap on ‘Clear cache’ and then ‘Clear data’.
For earlier Android versions:
1. Go to Settings > Apps.
2. Find and tap on ‘Google Play Store’ in the list.
3. Tap on ‘Storage’.
4. Tap on ‘Clear cache’ and then ‘Clear data’.
Update Google Play Store
An outdated version of the Google Play Store app.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>app
could also cause issues with system app updates. Check if there’s an update available for the Google Play Store and install it.
Contact Google Support
If none of the above steps worked, consider reaching out to Google Support for further assistance. They may be able to provide additional troubleshooting steps or identify if there’s a broader issue affecting multiple devices.
I. Introduction
Keeping system apps updated on Android devices is crucial for ensuring optimal performance, stability, and enhanced security features. System apps are essential components of the Android operating system that manage various functions like Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth, camera, and more. By regularly updating these apps, users can enjoy improved performance and stability, as well as access to new features and essential security patches.
Importance of System App Updates
Updating system apps offers several benefits to Android users. First, the updates often come with bug fixes and performance enhancements that can significantly improve your device’s overall user experience. Additionally, security patches are a critical component of system app updates. These patches address vulnerabilities in the code that could potentially be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to your device or steal sensitive information.
The Problem: Google Play is Not Showing Available System App Updates
Despite the importance of system app updates, many Android users encounter an issue where Google Play fails to show available updates for pre-installed system apps. This can be frustrating, as users are left unaware of the potential benefits and security improvements that come with updating these apps. This issue is more common in older devices or those running custom ROMs, but it can affect newer devices as well.
Check for Internet Connection
A stable internet connection is crucial for keeping your Android devices up-to-date with the latest apps and features via Google Play. Updating apps not only ensures you have the latest security patches and enhancements, but also allows for continued compatibility with other applications and services.
Steps to Check and Troubleshoot Internet Connectivity on Android Devices
First, let’s check the Wi-Fi and Mobile Data settings. Go to “Settings” > “Network & Internet” > “Mobile network” (for mobile data) or “Wi-Fi” (for Wi-Fi). Ensure that the “Mobile network” or “Wi-Fi” toggle is turned on. If you’re using Wi-Fi, make sure your device is connected to a network and the signal strength is good.
Restarting the Device
If you’re still having issues, try restarting your device. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connectivity problems. Press and hold the power button until the “Restart” option appears, then select it and confirm.
Forgetting and Reconnecting to Wi-Fi Networks or Mobile Data
If the problem persists, you might need to forget and reconnect to your Wi-Fi network or mobile data. To do this:
* For Wi-Fi, go back to “Settings” > “Network & Internet” > “Wi-Fi” > tap and hold the network you’re connected to > select “Forget”. Then, try reconnecting to the network.
* For mobile data, go back to “Settings” > “Network & Internet” > “Mobile network” > “Access Point Names (APNs)” > delete the APN settings > save changes > go back to “Mobile network” > toggle mobile data off and on again.
I Clear Google Play Cache and Data
A. Clearing the cache and data for Google Play may help resolve some issues you’re experiencing with app updates. Sometimes, corrupted cached data or saved settings can prevent apps from updating properly or even cause them to malfunction. Therefore, it’s worth trying this solution before uninstalling and reinstalling the app.
Explanation
Clearing Cache:
To clear the cache for Google Play Store, follow these steps:
- Locate the Google Play Store in Apps or Settings: Open your device’s “Settings” app, then find and tap on “Apps” or “Application Manager.” Scroll down the list until you find “Google Play Store.”
- Tapping on Storage > Clear cache: Tap on the “Storage” option and then find the “Clear Cache” button. Tap “OK” to confirm.
Clearing Data:
To clear data for Google Play Store, follow these additional steps:
- Going back to App info > tap on Clear data: After clearing the cache, go back to the Google Play Store’s app info page. Tap on “Clear Data.”
- OK > Confirm: Tap the “OK” button to confirm you want to clear all app data. Then tap “OK” again on the confirmation dialog.
Warning About Data Loss
It’s essential to understand that clearing data may cause you to lose saved data for downloads and subscriptions.
If you have important data or ongoing subscriptions, be sure to back them up before proceeding.
Once you’ve cleared the cache and data for Google Play Store, try updating your apps again to see if the issue has been resolved.
Update Google Play Services
Updating Google Play Services is an essential task for maintaining the optimal performance of your Android device. This update process can lead to some system app updates being shown again in your notification panel, as these apps often rely on Google Play Services for their functionality.
Why Does This Happen?
Google Play Services acts as the backbone for various features and functionalities of Android apps. When an update is available, it may include improvements, bug fixes, or new features that require a corresponding update to the dependent apps. Hence, after installing the latest Google Play Services version, these apps might show an update notification.
How to Update Google Play Services?
To ensure your device has the latest version of Google Play Services, follow these simple steps:
- Open Settings app.
- Tap on ‘About phone‘ or ‘System update‘ depending on your device model.
- Tap on ‘Software update’ or ‘System update’,
- If an update is available, tap on ‘Download and install‘.
Importance of Keeping Google Play Services Updated:
Google Play Services updates bring several advantages, such as:
- Security enhancements: Keeping your Google Play Services updated is crucial for maintaining the security of your device and personal data.
- Bug fixes: These updates also address known issues, ensuring a smooth user experience for your installed apps.
- New features and functionalities: Staying updated enables you to access the latest features and improvements for your favorite apps.
Check for System Updates
Updating the Android operating system (OS) is an essential task that should not be overlooked. Not only does it bring numerous performance improvements and new features to your device, but it also ensures the security of your Android phone or tablet. One major advantage of updating your OS is that it may bring available system app updates as well. These updates can include bug fixes, enhancements, and even new functionality for the built-in apps.
To check for and install a system update on your Android device, follow these steps:
Steps to Check for and Install a System Update:
- Open the Settings app.
-
For Android 9.0 and earlier:
- Tap on the About phone or System updates option.
- Tap on Software update.
- Tap on the System app.
- Scroll down and tap on System update.
For Android 10.0 and later:
Once you are in the Software update or System update section, follow these steps:
Checking for an Update:
Your device will search for available updates. If an update is available, your device will display the download size and an option to install it.
Installing a System Update:
The installation process may take some time, depending on the size of the update. Do not interrupt the installation process or turn off your device during this time.
VI. Manually Checking for App Updates
While most apps are updated automatically through the Google Play store, some apps may not show up as available updates within the Google Play interface. In such cases, it’s important to know how to manually check for and install app updates to ensure you have the latest features and security fixes.
Manually Checking for App Updates
Some apps may not appear as available updates within the Google Play store, but they can still be updated manually. This is often the case for apps that are downloaded outside of the Google Play store, such as from the developer’s website.
Steps for Updating an App Manually
To update an app manually, follow these steps:
- Open the Apps drawer
- Find and tap on the app in question to open it
- Tap on the three dots icon located in the upper-right corner of the app screen
- If an update is available, tap on the Update
Important:
Be aware that downloading and installing updates from sources other than the Google Play store can pose a security risk. Always ensure that you’re only downloading updates from trusted sources to protect your device and personal information.
V Conclusion
Step by step, we have walked through various measures to tackle the issue of Google Play not showing available system app updates. Firstly, we suggested checking for software updates on your device and ensuring that your Google Play Store app was updated to the latest version. Then, we delved into clearing the cache and data of the Google Play Store and Google Services Framework. Next, we attempted a forced stop and battery pull (for some devices). Unfortunately, if none of these steps resolved the issue, we recommended checking for any device or carrier restrictions.
Moving forward…
In light of the above, it is crucial that users keep their devices updated with the latest software and app versions. Not only does this ensure optimal performance but also enhances security measures, offering peace of mind against potential vulnerabilities. To maximize the benefits, users are encouraged to maintain a stable and reliable internet connection at all times.
Reach out for help…
Should the issue persist despite following our suggested steps, we advise users to reach out to their device manufacturer or carrier’s support teams. Providing them with detailed information about the issue, such as error messages or symptoms, may aid in swift resolution. By collaborating closely with these experts, users can ultimately restore their Google Play functionality and enjoy a seamless user experience once more.