7 Ways to Fix Apps Not Opening on Android

It’s frustrating when an app refuses to open, especially when you need it the most. Whether it’s a social media app, a game, or something important for work, a stuck app can be annoying.

The good news? Fixing it is easy! In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven quick fixes to get your apps working again. No tech skills needed—just follow these simple steps and enjoy a smooth Android experience!

How to Fix Apps Not Opening on Android?

1. Restart Your Device

A simple restart can fix many minor software glitches that stop apps from opening. Restarting clears temporary system processes and refreshes the memory.

To do this, press and hold the power button on your Android device until the power menu appears. Tap on the “Restart” option, and your device will reboot. Once it restarts, try opening the app again to see if the issue persists.

Why this works?

It shuts down background apps that might be causing conflicts refreshing system processes and resolving minor software bugs.

Expert Tip: If your phone is frozen and won’t respond, perform a force restart by holding the power + volume down buttons for about 10 seconds.

2. Clear App Cache

The accumulation of temporary files and data in the app cache can lead to performance issues and prevent apps from opening. Clearing the app cache can help resolve this problem. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Go to “Settings” on your Android device.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap on “Apps” or “Applications” (may vary depending on your device).

Step 3: Locate the problematic app from the list and tap on it.

Step 4: Select the “Storage” option.

Step 5: Tap on the “Clear Cache” button.

Why this works?

It also removes temporary files that may be causing the app to crash, frees up storage space, improving performance.

Expert Tip: If the issue persists, try Clear Data instead of just Clear Cache. But be careful — this will reset the app to its default state, removing all stored settings and login info.

3. Update the App

Outdated apps may not be compatible with the latest version of the Android operating system, causing them to malfunction. Updating your apps ensures that they are optimized for your device’s software. To update an app:

Step 1: Open the Google Play Store.

Step 2: Tap on the profile picture in the upper-right corner.

Step 3: Select “Manage apps & device” from the menu.

Step 4: On the next screen, tap on Manage next to Overview. A list of apps with available updates will appear. Find the app that is not opening and tap on the “Update” button next to it.

Why this works?

This step will fix bugs that might be causing the app to crash. This alsp ensures compatibility with the latest Android updates along with improving security and performance.

Expert Tip: If multiple apps aren’t opening, tap Update All in the Play Store to update everything at once.

4. Check for Android System Updates

System updates provided by your device manufacturer often contain bug fixes and performance improvements. Keeping your Android device up to date can help resolve issues with app compatibility. To check for system updates:

Step 1: Go to “Settings” on your Android device.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap on “System” or “About phone” (may vary depending on your device).

Step 3: Select “System Updates” or “Software Update.”

Step 4: If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.

Why this works?

Upading Android version fixes system bugs affecting app performance. It improves device stability and ensures better app compatibility.

Expert Tip: Keep your phone charged or plugged in while updating to avoid interruptions.

5. Uninstall and Reinstall the App

If a particular app continues to have issues, uninstalling and reinstalling it can often fix any underlying problems. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Long-press the app icon on your home screen or app drawer.

Step 2: Move the app icon towards the “Uninstall” or “Remove” option that will be visible either at the top or bottom of your screen.

Step 3: Confirm the uninstallation by tapping “OK” or “Uninstall.”

Alternatively, depending on your device, you can long-press the app icon you wish to uninstall. You will then see an option to “Uninstall.” Simply tap on it to complete the app uninstallation.

Step 4: Open the Google Play Store, search for the app, and reinstall it by tapping the “Install” button.

Why this works?

This step will remove corrupted files and fix compatibility issues by installing the latest version.

Expert Tip: If the app still won’t open, check if it has special permissions (e.g., storage, camera). Go to Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Permissions and allow necessary access.

6. Disable Battery Optimization

Some Android devices automatically restrict apps in the background to save battery. This can stop certain apps from opening properly.

Step 1: Go to “Settings” on your Android device.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap on “Battery” or “Battery & performance” (may vary depending on your device).

Step 3: Select “Battery Optimization” or “Battery usage.”

Step 4: Tap on the three-dot menu icon in the upper-right corner and choose “All apps” or “Apps.”

Step 5: Locate the app that is not opening and tap on it.

Step 6: Select “Don’t optimize” or “Optimize battery usage,” depending on your device.

Step 7: A pop-up message may appear, indicating that the app may use more power. Tap on “OK” or “Disable.”

Why this works?

This will prevent the app from being restricted in the background, and also ensures smooth functioning, especially for messaging or streaming apps.

Expert Tip: Some devices have aggressive battery-saving modes (e.g., Samsung’s Adaptive Battery or Xiaomi’s MIUI optimization). If your app keeps closing, try disabling these in Battery settings.

7. Factory Reset Your Device (Last Resort)

If none of the above methods work, performing a factory reset can help resolve more severe issues. However, it is crucial to note that a factory reset will erase all data and settings on your device, so make sure to back up your important files beforehand. To perform a factory reset:

Step 1: Go to “Settings” on your Android device.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap on “System” or “System & updates” (may vary depending on your device).

Step 3: Select “Reset” or “Reset options.”

Step 4: Choose “Erase all data (factory reset)” or a similar option.

Step 5: Read the information and follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with the reset.

Why this works?

This will remove corrupted system files. It also fixes software conflicts that prevent apps from opening.

Expert Tip: Before resetting, try booting into Safe Mode (press and hold the Power Off button, then tap Safe Mode). If apps work fine in Safe Mode, a third-party app might be causing the issue—try uninstalling recently installed apps first.