Tablets

Apps keep crashing

Apps that repeatedly crash usually point to a storage, memory, or software update problem rather than damaged hardware.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
20–30 minutes
DIY cost
$0
Pro cost
$0–$40 diagnostic if hardware suspected

Symptoms

  • An app closes unexpectedly right after opening
  • Multiple different apps crash, not just one
  • Crashes happen more often after a recent update

Likely causes

  • CommonStorage space too low for the app to functionApps often need free space to cache data even just to run.
  • CommonApp or operating system needs an updateOutdated apps can become incompatible with a newer OS version, or vice versa.
  • PossibleCorrupted app data or cacheA single app's data can become corrupted while others work fine.
  • PossibleToo little available memory from other open appsRunning many apps at once can starve a newly opened app of memory.

What to do

  1. Free up storage space by deleting unused apps, photos, or downloads.
  2. Update the crashing app from the app store, and check for a pending operating system update.
  3. Force close the app completely, then reopen it.
  4. Restart the tablet to clear memory and background processes.
  5. If only one app crashes, try deleting and reinstalling it to clear corrupted data (back up any local data first).
  6. If most or all apps crash regularly even after these steps, consider a factory reset after backing up your data.

When to call a pro

If crashes continue across many apps even after updates and a reset, a repair shop can check for a failing storage chip or memory issue.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.