How to download and manage apps using the Google Play Store on Android

Prerequisites

• An Android phone or tablet with the Google Play Store installed and internet access.

• A Google Account signed in to Play Store. If you use more than one account, check which one is active before buying: Google Play content is tied to the account and can’t be transferred between accounts.

• For paid apps, review the app and account before confirming the purchase. The price and payment options appear in Google Play.

• Before uninstalling an app or clearing its data, verify that any important app data is backed up and that you can access the backup. Backup and restore options vary by app; don’t assume that reinstalling will restore everything.

Find and install an app

1. Open the Google Play Store app on your device.

2. Search for the app by name, or browse the available categories.

3. Open the app’s listing. Check its description, developer, star rating, number of downloads, and user reviews. These can help you assess an app, but ratings alone don’t guarantee it is safe or suitable.

4. Tap Install for a no-charge app. For a paid app, tap the displayed price and follow the purchase prompts. Check that the correct Google Account is selected before completing a purchase.

5. When installation finishes, open the app from its Play Store listing or your device’s app list. Review the app’s permissions when prompted and grant only those you’re comfortable with.

Google recommends getting apps from Play Store. Downloading apps from other sources can put your device and personal information at risk. Read Google’s Android app download and safety guidance for more information.

Manage apps and other devices

Review apps and updates

1. In Play Store, tap your profile picture.

2. Tap Manage apps & device to see management options for apps associated with your account and device.

3. Review the available updates and app details before choosing an action. Menu names and options can differ across Android versions and devices.

Install an app on another device

1. In Play Store, find and open the app.

2. Next to Install, tap the down arrow if it appears.

3. Select the compatible device or devices, then tap Install. Availability depends on the app and the target device.

Google also describes how to install apps on other devices and manage app sync. To turn on sync, the supplied instructions say to open Play Store, tap your profile picture, choose Manage apps & device, then Sync apps to devices, and select devices.

Uninstall carefully

You can manage apps from the Manage area under Manage apps & device. Before selecting an uninstall option, confirm that important data is backed up and the backup is usable. Uninstalling or removing an app may delete data stored on that device; whether data can be restored depends on the app and its backup arrangements.

Troubleshooting

• An app won’t download: Check your internet connection, available device storage, and whether Play Store shows a message or pending action. Follow Google’s Android app download help for supported troubleshooting guidance.

• The app doesn’t appear for another device: It may not be available for that device. Check the listing’s device availability or use Play Store’s device filters.

• A purchase or app is missing: Confirm that Play Store is signed in to the Google Account used for that purchase. Google says Play content can’t be transferred between accounts.

• The menu or steps don’t match your phone: Android versions and manufacturer-customized software can differ. The Android Help page notes that some steps may not work on custom Android versions; consult your device manufacturer for model-specific instructions.