- 10 Weird Mobile Apps You Won't Believe You Can Download 1. A location-based social networking app called Cuddly lets you find people in your area to cuddle with.
- Trouble with App Store apps. If you’re having trouble launching and using an app that you just downloaded from the App Store, don’t be so quick to blame the developer and suggest that the app is garbage. Although it very well could be, don’t get me wrong, you should never count out the idea that something else could be the culprit.
- 5 Apps Your Kids Should Never Use – The Wired Homeschool By John Wilkerson on February 8, 2013 in Apps for Homeschooling, Smartphones There are a lot of great apps out there for kids to use.
We love our smartphones because they are so brilliant when it comes to handling our social lives, work, relationships and our calendar. Our reliability on these phones is to the extent that we begin palpitating the moment we realize that we forgot our phone somewhere. So do our phones really have the super power of controlling us? The truth is that our phones may not be as powerful as they seem without all the apps that we download to it.
The 30 Best iPhone Apps to Download Now. The app calls these destinations 'hidden cities,' a stop on the way to your final destination (which you never plan to take). You could end up saving. 12 things you should never do at the airport this holiday season. Don't forget to download the airline's app. So you'll never miss a thing. The app also allows you to check in on your.
These apps give us the ability to turn our phones into smart little machines that load us up on information regarding a number of things in our lives and around the world. With apps being so important for a smartphone, imagine how your smartphone’s life could come to a near standstill if your Android won’t download apps. This is why we have looked up solutions that can help you fix Android won’t download apps.
Read also: How to fix no signal on Android
Getting the Basics Right
The most important thing to remember when downloading anything from the Play Store is that you must have a stable internet connection. You will not be able to download an app if the internet connection is not working properly. Whether you are connected to the Internet through Wi-Fi or you are using mobile data, the most fundamental step to ensuring that you are able to download the apps is the fact that you have a proper internet connection.
Pull down the notifications shade of your device and check if the Wi-Fi icon or the mobile data icon is lit up. If none of these icons is switched on, then you must switch on the connection to make sure that your device has access to the internet.
However, if you tried this and still the issue persist, follow the below solutions to fix the issue.
How To Fix Android Won’t Download Apps On Samsung Galaxy S, Galaxy Note, LG G, Moto X, Nexus, HTC and Other Android Devices
Solution 1: Restart You Device
If you have downloaded apps before without any problems and this is the first time you encounter a problem with your Android device when it comes to downloading apps from Google Play, then restarting the device can be helpful. With the help of a restart, you should be able to fix this issue without getting into deep troubleshooting on your device.
However, there is a chance that restarting the device may be a temporary fix. If you begin to encounter the problem too many times and the restart begins to get annoying then you must try the other troubleshooting steps.
Solution 2: Check your date and time settings
When you try to download an app from the Play Store, the Google servers will try to check for the time on your device. If the time is incorrect it will not be able to sync the servers with the device which can cause a problem in downloading anything from the Play Store.
To correct the date and time of your device follow these steps:
- Go to the Settings menu of your device
- Tap on System and look for Date and Time
- Once you tap on Date and Time, you will be able to find out whether your phone is set to Automatic Date and Time.
- Toggle on the Automatic Date and Time if it isn’t already On.
- On the other hand, if the Automatic Date and Time is on and Google Play Store is not working, then change it to manual and set the time yourself being as accurate as you can be. Check if your problem is fixed by doing this.
Solution 3: Use mobile data instead of the Wi-Fi network
If you are using a Wi-Fi network to download the apps then switch to mobile data and check if it works. The reason behind this is that certain Wi-Fi networks block port 5228. This is the port used by the Google Play. To switch the networks, pull down the notification shade of your device and tap on the Wi-Fi icon to switch it off. Now look for the Mobile data icon and switch it on.
Once you have switched the internet access, restart your device and then go to Google Play to resume the app download. Check if the problem you were facing has been fixed.
Solution 4: Make Sure Download Manager is On
Download manager facilitates the downloading of all the apps. You must ensure that it is On so that your apps can be downloaded successfully from the Play Store. To check if Download Manager is On or not you should head into the Settings menu of your device and then go to the Apps or Application Manager.
Now you will notice tabs on the top of the screen. Swipe right or left to go to the tab that says All. Look for Download Manager under this section and tap on it to find out whether it is enabled or disabled. For those users who find it disabled, tap on the Enable option to Enable Download Manager and then download the apps again.
Solution 5: Delete Google Play Cache and Data
Wiping the cache for Google Play can solve a few problems related to the Play Store. Cache files store information that helps your device load the application quickly. These files are recreated once you access the application again.
The Data files of an application store data that includes all information saved on the app like high scores, usernames, and passwords. When the data files are deleted you must make sure that you write down any form of important information before deleting the files.
- Go into the Settings menu of your device
- Tap on Apps or Application Manager
- Look for Google Play Store
- Tap on it and scroll down to look for the option that says Clear Cache. Tap on it to delete the cache files.
Go back to the app store and check if the apps begin to download now. If the problem is not fixed yet then delete the data files by going through the same steps and then instead of tapping on Clear Cache, you must tap on Clear Data. You will notice a warning that will tell you that all data will be deleted. Press Ok to confirm and then open the Play Store once again to look for the app and begin the download. Check if this helps you fix the problem on your Android device.
Solution 6: Clear Cache and Data for Google Play Services
Google Play Services is the process through which your applications communicate with various sections of your device. It enables sync and ensures that push notifications are sent to the device apps in a timely manner. Google Play Services plays an important role in the working of applications. A problem in the cache or data files of the Play Services can cause a problem when it comes to downloading the applications from the Play Store.
- Go to the Settings menu of your device
- Look for Apps or Application Manager and tap on it
- Scroll to find Google Play Services and tap on it
- On the next screen, look for Clear cache, tap on it.
Once the cache files have been wiped, check if the problem is fixed. If you are still unable to download apps from the Play store then follow the same steps to return to the screen from where you cleared the cache. This time, you must tap on Clear Data to delete the data. You will notice a warning on your screen. Simply tap on OK to confirm deleting the data.
Restart your device and check if the problem is fixed.
Solution 7: Refresh the data sync settings
The data synchronization of your device that allows the syncing of data can help you solve the problem. A number of readers found this to be an easy way of resolving the problem of their apps not downloading from the Play Store.
- Head into the Settings of your phone
- Tap on Accounts or Accounts and Sync
- Depending on your Android version, you may notice background data. Tap on it to uncheck it and wait for 30 seconds then check the box next to it once again.
- For Android users on latest Android versions, you may have to tap on the three dots on the top right to open a drop down menu which will have the option that says Auto Sync Data.
- Tap on it to uncheck the Auto sync of data and then tap on it again after 30 seconds to ensure auto syncing of data.
Once you have completed this step, go back into Google Play Store and check if the app is being downloaded now.
Solution 8: Update your Device Software
The software of your device must always be updated so that any bugs or problems in the previous version is fixed effectively. If you have delayed updates for your device then it is about time you checked and update the software of your device.
- Go to the Settings menu of your device
- Scroll down to find About Device and tap on it
- Tap on Check for Updates or similar vocabulary on your device, and if there is a newer version available, then install the new updates.
Once the new updates are installed, your device will automatically restart. After the restart, check if the apps are being downloaded to your device now.
Solution 9: Reset Your Google Account
If the problem hasn’t been fixed yet, then we will be moving into some complex solutions which may fix the issue. Resetting the Google Account can help you solve the problem of your Android not downloading the apps. When you reset the account, you will be deleting the entire account and starting all over again. This means you should know your Google Account username and password. If you do not have these details, then you will not be able to add the account back to your device again. The Google account will be completely removed from your device and it will be added all over again.
- Pull down the notifications section of your device and tap on the Settings icon.
- In the Settings menu, look for Accounts and tap on it
- Tap on Google to check the Google account on your device.
Bad Apps To Download
- Tap on the account you wish to remove
- On the next screen, tap on the Menu icon which is the three dots on the top right.
- From the drop-down menu, tap on Remove Account to completely remove the account from your device.
If you have more than one Google accounts on your device then make sure your remove all the Google account. After deleting the accounts, you will have to start entering the accounts once again to your device.
Go back to the Settings menu of your device and tap on Accounts once again. Now you will find the option to Add Account. Tap on Add Account and complete the process of adding the account to your device. You must follow these steps to add all your Google accounts and once this is done, return to the Play Store and find out if your problem has been resolved by this.
Solution 10: Uninstall Google Play Store Updates
Sometimes, your Play Store updates may be the cause of the problem. So uninstall the update and allow the app to update once again. It can help in solving the problem. Once the updates are re-installed, try to download the apps all over again to check if it is working as expected.
- Go to the Settings menu of your device
- Tap on Apps or Application Manager and look for Google Play Store.
- Tap on Play Store and tap on the option that says Uninstall Updates.
- Once the updates are uninstalled, tap on the home button to come out of the screen.
- Now restart your device and go back to the Settings and then tap on Apps again to head into Google Play Store for the second time.
- Now tap on Update and allow the app to update itself.
Once the app has been updated, head into the Play Store and check if the apps are now being downloaded or not.
Solution 11: Reset your device to Factory Settings
For users who are unable to fix the problem with any of the above solutions, our last resort which happens to effectively resolve many Android problems, is to reset your device to factory settings. This will bring your device’s software back to the version that it was when it was taken out of the box. All data will be deleted from your device and all third party apps will be removed. You will also lose personalized settings because the phone will go back to the default settings.
![Is cheetah mobile trustworthy Is cheetah mobile trustworthy](/uploads/1/2/6/4/126425103/228034659.jpg)
This is why you must create a backup for the data that you consider important. You can back up the data on a computer or you can use your Google account to back up the data. Your phone will give you the option to back up the data on the Google account before you reset the device.
- Go to the Settings menu of your device
- Tap on Back up and Reset
- Now you can check or uncheck the option to create a backup depending on your preferences.
- Towards the bottom of the screen, you will notice the option to Reset to Factory Settings.
- Tap on it and confirm the Reset when you get a warning message that will tell you that your data is going to be lost.
Once the reset is complete, your device will automatically restart. Go to the Play Store and check if the problem you were facing has been fixed.
What do I do when I get the error Insufficient Space when downloading apps to my Android?
Sometimes you may not be able to download the apps to your device because of insufficient space. At times like these, you will have to delete a few things from your device to make space. Check if you have too many photos or videos on your device which may be eating into the storage. Move these files to your computer to increase the space of your device.
You may have to uninstall some apps if you need enough space for large apps. To uninstall the apps, go to the Settings menu of your device and look for Apps or Application Manager. Now tap on the apps that you want to uninstall and you will get the option to uninstall the app on the next screen. Tap on uninstall and confirm the uninstallation.
Alternatively, users on the latest version of Android will be able to long press on the app they wish to uninstall and they will automatically see the options to uninstall the app on the top of the screen. All you need to do is drag the app icon to the uninstall option on the screen and the app will be uninstalled.
What do I do if I get Error DF-BPA-09 ‘Error Processing Purchase’?
This error is related to the Play Service and not specific to your device. Clear the data for Google Services Framework to resolve this problem. Follow these steps to remove the data files:
- Head into the Settings menu of your device
- Tap on Apps or Application Manager
- From the top tabs, swipe to the All column and look for Google Services Framework
- On the next screen, tap on clear data and then tap on OK
Once you clear the data, head into the Play Store and check if the error has been resolved. If you still find the same error showing up on your screen, then access the Google Play Site from your computer. Install the app to your device from your computer and then the app will work on your device.
What to do when I see one of the following errors on the screen when I try to download an app – Error 194, Error 495, Error 941, Error rh01, Error 504 ?
These errors can occur for a number of problems with the Google Play Store. However, the best solution for all these errors is to clear the cache and data of Google Play Store and Google Services Framework from your device and check if the problem is resolved. For most of our readers who found any of these errors while downloading apps from the store, this solution seemed to have worked.
We have mentioned the steps for clearing the cache and data files in the solutions above. Restart your device after deleting all the files and then check if the problem has been fixed.
What to do if I get the error 911 when I try to download an app from the Play Store?
When you get this error, you must first delete the cache and data of the Google Services. We have mentioned the steps for doing this in the solutions above. If this does not fix your problem, then check if you are still logged in if you are using a Wi-Fi connection which uses a web page login. If it still does not work, then you must try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network and if you do not have the option to connect to another Wi-Fi network, then you must use the mobile data option. Remember that this option will use up data from your plan and if you do not have a plan you may incur charges.
The problem usually occurs because of the Wi-Fi connection which is being used, this is why it is important that you establish a proper Wi-Fi connection or you must use your mobile data.
Conclusion
![Creepy apps to never download Creepy apps to never download](https://insurancememes.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1l_sir9r7ri.jpg)
All these solutions can work on a number of Android devices. You can use these solutions to fix Android won’t download apps on all Samsung Galaxy S, HTC, Moto X, Nexus, LG G and other Android devices. While these solutions are not tested on every Android device, most of them work successfully for all our readers who are using various Android devices.
You may also read: How to fix Android GPS issues
These days, there literally is an app for everything10 Minimalist Android Apps for a Simpler Phone10 Minimalist Android Apps for a Simpler PhoneOverwhelmed with complicated Android apps? These minimalist Android app alternatives will simplify your phone to the basics.Read More. Whether you want to spend hours playing games, watch a person on the other side of the world stream a local sports game, or organize every aspect of your life down to the minutiae.
The downside to this incredible level of choice is that some apps out there disguise themselves as your friend, when in fact they just want to harm you. Google’s Play Store has frequently received criticism for its less-than-robust approach to filtering unsafe content, and if you’re not careful, you could find yourself being tracked, hacked, or conned.
Windows xp clean iso download. With that in mind, we take a look at ten seemingly-innocent popular apps you shouldn’t install under any circumstances:
1. QuickPic
What it is: QuickPic used to be a friendly and easy-to-use photo gallery. It was never flashy, but clear communications and frequent updates saw it steadily grow a well-sized user base.
Why it’s bad: It was bought by Cheetah Mobile last year. The company immediately started uploading users’ data to their own servers, as evidenced by one Google Plus user who found a raft of new DNS requests that were attributable to the app.
What you should use instead: There are lots of gallery apps for Android4 Great Free Alternative Gallery Apps For Android4 Great Free Alternative Gallery Apps For AndroidDon't like the default gallery app on your Android device? Here are some fantastic free alternatives.Read More. One alternative that’s been gathering pace recently is Piktures. It claims to be the first gesture-based gallery app and is completely ad-free.
2. ES File Explorer
What it is: Amazingly, it’s probably the most popular file explorer app out there. https://twitterheavenly637.weebly.com/sims-3-world-adventures-iso-download.html. That’s because it used to be really, really good – five years ago.
Why it’s bad: The free version has been pumped full of bloatware and ad-ware, and it endlessly nags you to download additional apps via non-disable-able notification bar pop-ups.
What you should use instead:There are loads to choose fromThe 7 Best Free File Explorers for AndroidThe 7 Best Free File Explorers for AndroidThere are a bunch of file management and file exploring apps out there for Android, but these are the best.Read More. If you want an open-source offering turn to OI File Manager; if you’re more concerned with design try out FX File Explorer; or if customization is your thing, you can look to Total Commander.
3. UC Browser
What it is: The most popular Android web browser in China and India. It claims to have a “fast mode” that’ll save you MBs of data usage thanks to compression.
Why it’s bad: Tracking. Users’ search queries are sent without encryption to Yahoo India and Google, a user’s IMSI number, IMEI number, Android ID, and Wi-Fi MAC address are sent without encryption to Umeng (an Alibaba analytics tool), and users’ geolocation data (including longitude/latitude and street name) is transmitted without encryption to AMAP (an Alibaba mapping tool).
What you should use instead: Where to start? Chrome and Firefox are the obvious choicesWhat's the Fastest Android Browser? 7 Top Apps RankedWhat's the Fastest Android Browser? 7 Top Apps RankedWith so many Android browsers available, which are the fastest? Here are the best browser apps on Android.Read More, but some people have worries about privacy concerns there too. A solid all-around privacy protector is Lightning.
4. CLEAN it
What it is: A “junk file cleaner” that’s been installed 10 million times and has 85 percent four- or five-star reviews.
Why it’s bad: Most of what it advertises is detrimental to your phone. For example, clearing the cache will ultimately slow your phone down when it needs to be rebuilt, clearing your RAM only leads to more battery usage, and killing running apps does not save your batteryWhy RAM Boosters and Task Killers Are Bad for Your AndroidWhy RAM Boosters and Task Killers Are Bad for Your AndroidAt first glance, RAM boosters and task killers sound incredibly useful, but a closer look shows that they could actually be harming your phone instead.Read More as claimed.
What you should use instead:Greenify is a much better option for reducing battery drain caused by apps10 Proven and Tested Tips to Extend Battery Life on Android10 Proven and Tested Tips to Extend Battery Life on AndroidSuffering from poor battery life on Android? Follow these tips to get more juice out of your Android device's battery.Read More, and SD Maid is a more useful junk filter for ad files and logs, etc.
5. Music Player
What it is: As implied, it’s an app that lets you play audio files saved on your device.
Why it’s bad: It has lots of ads, but more worryingly from a user standpoint, it eats through data plans and destroys your battery. People who’ve commented on its Google Play listing report gigabytes of data being consumed, as well as massive battery drain.
What you should use instead: There are lots ofWhat Is the Best Way to Stream Music for Free on Android?What Is the Best Way to Stream Music for Free on Android?There are a ton of free music-streaming apps for Android, but how are they different and which is your best option?Read More wWhat Is the Best Way to Stream Music for Free on Android?What Is the Best Way to Stream Music for Free on Android?There are a ton of free music-streaming apps for Android, but how are they different and which is your best option?Read Moreays to stream musicWhat Is the Best Way to Stream Music for Free on Android?What Is the Best Way to Stream Music for Free on Android?There are a ton of free music-streaming apps for Android, but how are they different and which is your best option?Read More on Android, while Google Play Music and Phonograph are both good ways to manage audio6 Gorgeous Material Design-Inspired Music Players for Android6 Gorgeous Material Design-Inspired Music Players for AndroidLooking for a music player that's been updated with Material Design in mind? Look no further!Read More that’s already on your device.
6. DU Battery Saver & Fast Charge
What it is: Another “battery-saving” app with an insane number of downloads. It has 7.6 million five-star reviews. Well, sorry, but all of those 7.6 million people are wrong.
Why it’s bad: Fast Charge? An app does not have the ability to change how fast your device charges. This is also the king of adverts – it sponsors almost every ad that you see in any other app and manifests its own ads on your lock screen and notifications bar. Also, all those fancy speed graphs and cool animations? Totally fake.
What you should use instead: If you’re genuinely interested in your phone’s battery statsFind out Which Apps Are Killing Your Android BatteryFind out Which Apps Are Killing Your Android BatteryIf you're getting poor battery life on your device, you likely have an app abusing your battery in the background. Find out how to identify those apps and solve your battery problems.Read More, you should use GSM Battery Monitor. For proper battery saving, try the aforementioned Greenify.
7. Dolphin Web Browser
What it is: An ad-free, Flash-supporting, HTML 5 video-enabled browser. It’s got 150 million downloads and counting.
Apps You Should Not Download
Why it’s bad: Like UC Browser, this is a tracking nightmare. Worst of all, it saves your incognito mode website visits in a file on your phone – go and check. Don’t believe the hype; delete it now.
What you should use instead: As mentioned earlier, Chrome, Firefox, and Lightning are your three best options.
8. Photo Collage
What it is: A collage creator that boasts 120 different frames, addable text, and fun backgrounds.
Why it’s bad: Lots and lots of ads, the most annoying of which is the DU Quick Charge ad on the lock screen.
What you should use instead: Once again, there are plenty of photo editors out there6 Best Photo Editors for Android6 Best Photo Editors for AndroidEdit photos quickly and easily on your Android phone or tablet with these apps.Read More. Photoshop is great for heavy-duty work, or you could also try Google’s increasingly-impressive Snapseed.
9. Clean Master
What it is: Another insanely popular “speed booster, battery saver, and phone optimizer”. It has 600 million users and 26 million five-star reviews.
Why it’s bad: Firstly, it’s made by Cheetah Mobile. We referred to them earlier – the company is renowned for packing ads, bloatware, and nag screens into their apps. Secondly, it doesn’t do anything useful; RAM-saving apps were valuable once upon a time, but the Android system has developed so much that they are merely a hindranceWhy RAM Boosters and Task Killers Are Bad for Your AndroidWhy RAM Boosters and Task Killers Are Bad for Your AndroidAt first glance, RAM boosters and task killers sound incredibly useful, but a closer look shows that they could actually be harming your phone instead.Read More. Android now has its own native handler for assigning RAM and ensuring it’s all being used in the most optimal way – in many cases, it even deliberately keeps RAM loaded to help performance.
What you should use instead: Honestly, nothing. If you really insist, SD Maid is your friend.
10. Almost Every Anti-Virus App
What it is: There are loads to choose from; most of the well-known desktop anti-viruses now have a smartphone offering.
Why it’s bad: They aren’t bad per se, but they are largely unnecessary – that’s why the biggest names in the industry now market their apps’ anti-virus capabilities as part of a larger security package. There are a couple of caveats, however; if you install software from third-party sourcesHow to Sideload Any File onto Your Android Phone or TabletHow to Sideload Any File onto Your Android Phone or TabletYou may have come across the term 'sideloading' before, but what does it mean? And how can you go about sideloading apps or files?Read More (i.e., not the Google Play Store), or if you have a rooted deviceWhat Is Rooting? What Are Custom ROMs? Learn Android LingoWhat Is Rooting? What Are Custom ROMs? Learn Android LingoEver had a question about your Android device, but the answer had a bunch of words in it that you didn't understand? Let us break down the confusing Android lingo for you.Read More. Both these situations can open you up to malware that Google has no control over.
What you should use instead: In this case, it’s not so much what you should install instead, but rather that you need to make sure you’re installing a full-fledged security package from a recognized provider6 Android Security Apps You Should Install Today6 Android Security Apps You Should Install TodayAndroid security apps - capable of blocking malware and phishing attempts - are necessary if you wish to run a safe and secure smartphone. Let's look at some of the best Android security apps currently.Read More. The apps from companies like Avast and Avira tend to offer additional features such as password-locked apps, remote device wiping, and call blockers.
What Would You Add to This List?
This list of ten apps only scratches the surface. We don’t have exact figures, but we’d hazard a guess that the large majority of apps in the store are in some way “bad news”.
9apps Free Download
They’re easy to avoid if you’re smart – do your research and only install content from well-known and well-trusted developers. And of course, if you see any suspicious activity after installing an app, delete it and its residual cache immediately. Here are some tips for removing unwanted apps on your Android deviceHow to Uninstall Unwanted Apps on AndroidHow to Uninstall Unwanted Apps on AndroidWant to remove Android apps that won't uninstall normally? Here are the options to uninstall apps for rooted and non-rooted devices.Read More.
Now, if you’re interested in apps that we recommend instead, take a look at these that let you personalize your Android home screen and our ultimate list of best Android appsThe Best Android Apps on the Google Play StoreThe Best Android Apps on the Google Play StoreLooking for the best apps for your Android phone or tablet? Here's our comprehensive list of the best apps for Android.Read More:
Explore more about: Anti-Malware, Google Play, Private Browsing.
8 Scariest Apps To Never Get
- DO NOT DOWNLOAD CM LAUNCHER 3D. I had to resety phone 3 times. When I tried opening it up from when it was completely shut down it would go past the final screen. I reset it. It happened again. I reset it. When it happened a 3rd time I just bought a new phone. So now the broken phone is in my desk right now. Still corrupted. And before you say anything. THIS WAS A SAMSUNG S7. when this happened it was a relatively new phone.
- Hamann auto tuning shop. I can't use android without ES File explorer, it has a lot of features that I can't live without them, but as you said it has a lot of ads, that's why I'm using modded version from RexDl, same goes for ShareIT.
- Another app I wasn't using for long was 'Galaxy Camera'. Every 10 minutes or so, it would take a screenshot of my screen. At first, I didn't know what app it was until I installed an App Usage monitor. You can check out my review on the Google Play Store.
- MOVE ON, THIS IS NO AP YOU WANT.TouchPal keyboard seems to work a deal with a phone provider to get installed and distributed in ROM. All is well and things work great until it upgrades. Then come the ads, popups, and hijacking your lock screen. If you backslide the lockscreen, there is a dialog box with ONE CHECKBOX OPTION: display ads on lockscreen. Kinda like Henry Ford will sell you any color Model-T you want, as long as it's black. Why ask me if I want my screen hijacked if you've already hijacked it, are hiding the question anyway, and only let me answer in the affirmative!?!?!? These TOUCHPAL PEOPLE ARE TOTAL SLIMEBALLS.And finally, as a reminder, you can't turn your head to spit because TouchPal is ALWAYS TRYING TO UPDATE TO A NEWER VERSION LOADED WITH ADS AND READY TO HIJACK YOUR LOCKSCREEN.
- So you first say to NOT use QuickPic but in the article right under it you RECOMMEND it? Which is it? Bad or good?
- 2016?
That's a generation and half ago.
Smartphone is a crappy app too. ©2017 - I switched to Astro File Manager. It's such a relief to use a file manager without all the bloat and ads.
- Use mixplorar not on plays tire made by XDA developers, and completely as free
- Great research. I wasn't aware of QuickPic. Another one bites the dust. Uninstalling now:-( Looking forward to your picks of privacy-friendly apps - a task that may prove difficult given the state we're in.
- Transfer garageband files from macbook to ipad. For apps like Quickpic that spy on you simply install No Root Firewall and by default nothing leaves your device.
Also can be used to block excessive ads though that takes some knowledge and time to implement. - Expense management apps like ExpenseBit. They have access to all your messages, emails, and contacts. Then they sell this data to travel booking companies like Expedia. This type of apps is more dangerous in my opinion and threat to user privacy to the core.
- Expense management apps like ExpenseBit. They have access to all your messages, emails, and contacts. Then they sell this data to travel booking companies like Expedia. This type of app is more dangerous in my opinion and threat to user privacy.
- Music Player? Please elaborate as there are many with that name
- When I tried to change my keyboard to Swiftkey, my iPad told me the app would broadcast my key strikes, including passwords, etc.
- ES File Explorer is too hard to put down, as I've been making use of almost every feature it has provided so far for my home network. The ads were getting annoying, though. A paid PRO version they provide remedies that.
- I got the apk for ES File Explorer 4.0.2.3, tha last 'good' version from apkmirror and self-signed it to disconnect it from the play stores and keep it from trying to update
- Facebook and amazon apps they both spend too much time tracking you and running in the background no matter how many times you force stop or disable them. They simply restart themselves.
- Amazon music does none of that stuff. I have had it for 10 years with no issues. I also have 3 people on the account.
- I really don't find anything bad about these apps, however UC browser and the other you are doesn't seem like that kind of feature yes if it's a chinese company then obviously they are going to use all the information for their other apps or services.
- Android App called USER EXPERIENCE version 6.0.9.O Package name com.lenobi.newue.service
(Hidden app) can be located in Settings, 'memory usage' memory used by apps.
THIS APP IS DETECTED AS A VIRUS. Detection name:ARTEMIS!3148ba01e264
Unable to uninstall. Continually restarts after disabling AND force stopping.
Tried resetting to factory settings twice. Any advice ?- Not any good advice except, no offence factory reset your phone 2 times in a row. Make sure to backup data you want to keep
- I fully justify that 10 Apps mentioned were removed one by one after seeing the function.
- It's beyond me how some of those apps are allowed on the market, e.g. the one claiming to speed up the charging speed. Google should really be more strict about it.
- I think Opera is the best browser for Android and a real alternative to apps you mention as bad. I'm a little sad that you ommited it. It's certainly better than Chrome. Is there a reason for not mentioning it?
- agree, I tried m any browsers & always go back to Opera Mini.Brave, Firefox Focus, and Via are all good choices too
- I have loved Opera for years but sometimes I leave them when a new release is wonky. I've been away for more than a year but it's time to go back and check them out again. I stayed away longer this time because I had read rumors that the worm Zuckerberg was trying to buy Opera. So glad it hasn't happened - yet anyway.
- Facebook and Messenger are two insanely popular apps that kill your device's battery, RAM, and storage. I recommend Disa and Facebook.com (through the internet browser).
- Friendly is great Facebook alternative for Android
- Friendly is a great Facebook alternative for Android Jayz 4:44 albumn download torrent.
- Great list, I still use ES File Explorer, but I deleted the newer version and downloaded an old version, 3.2.4.1; and turned off automatic updates.
I have done this with TuneInn also, they always come up with some bs excuse claims for the updates, but they never say it's for the new adds.
The other app I use has no adds at all, is Pandora, these are my apps that will never get updated.- Hey Lino. My name is also Lino. Always interesting when I run across our unique name. I was named after my father who was born on September 23rd. The day of San Lino. I know 2 other Linos also associated with that date. Anyways take care Lino!
- What world are you living in that Pandora has no ads. They have ads like every 4 songs. I would love to join your world of ad free Pandora because I am not buying Pandora premium.
- Very good article. Tks for this.
The solution for me was to use old versions oft fhese apps. For instanoe, I can't live without Es File Explorer and Uc Browser but, Inotice that new updated versions of these two arenot so safe. So, I download and install old versions and never uptade it. Obviously that this is not a good idea because, use old versions of any app it's not safe at all too. And here is where your article helps me, because you showed me pretty good alternatives and I'll give a try on those apps. - Thanks MUO! I hope this will somehow convince my friends to stop using those AVs, 'cleaner' and battery savers.
- Solid Explorer is awesome, and the best one I've ever used. Well worth the price.
- i 2nd that. can't agree more :)
- I don't know why you include ES explorer in this list. I have been using it for years and have never had any problem with ads or bloatware. I don't know of any other file explorer that handles network drives do easily. (and I've tried the ealternative you suggest)
- uhh. are you on the latest version? It's FILLED with bloatware and advertises many other apps.
- uhh YES. (There is no need for sarcasm). The latest version has less advertising than most apps. I will keep using ES explorer, as I said before 'I don't know of any other file explorer that handles network drives do easily' - Tell me one that does. How about MakeUseOf stop spamming so much, especially VPNs. Get your own house in order.
- I don't use the play store just for that reason of ads. I use ACMarket it has everything the play store has and all free and has NO ads.
- The X-plore handles networks great. Check it out. It is so much better than 'ES explorer' in my opinion.
- Thanks For the advice, Dan Price. Now I have a list of legit apps I can use on my new smartphone.
- Focus is a good picture manager too.
- You've listed 'Clean Master' from Cheetah Mobiles as an undesirable app to have on your phone, yet when you click on one of the links in the 'What you should use instead' part under 'CLEAN it' the first recommended app, in the article that opens up, is Clean Master !
So, are you guys reliable, or are you putting out 'paid bee's ?!- That ought to have been 'paid news' !
- My thought exactly. This was awkward. I guess the times of the two articles count too, because the one recommending Clean Master is from January 2015 and this one form June 2016. Still, it's unclear to me why they reference that article since it's a contradiction to this one.
- They mix some facts along with limited research (at times) to churn out content that often is lightweight filler. Many of these apps would be been recommended previously (and still since they don't revisit articles) so if you hit an older article from a search you might not realise they not recommend against it. eg. //www.makeuseof.com/tag/es-file-explorer-the-best-file-manager-for-android-android/If it was my the first thing I would do upon changing my recommendations is do a search on your site and add an update line point to the latest article.
- Agree 100% with Jane. Some articles it is even hard to find publish date (rapidly). Example: Quickpik and ES File Explorer. Both were tops years ago, then got sold /acquired. Fair enough, devs should be rewarded for usually years of hard work on an app. We decide to keep or kick based on current info. I would NEVER put anything from 'CheetYa' on my device. I'm rooted and use XPrivacy to handle the granular permissions of every app immediately on install to minimize leaks, including Google. It subs false data to the app so it usually doesn't break it like denying perms completely (yes old device and OS, Loss of credibility?). Result is you may be getting local weather from 'Christmas Island' sometimes, but these can be tweaked. ALSO GitHub and XDA have very active communities with people submitting up to date info, topics and fixes.
To end this long blah blah, I use old versions of some of these legit apps, no cleaners but SD Maid Pro, Greenify, old ES and QuickPic, then rely on XPrivacy if I need to feed false account info etc., APK Permission Pro App to remove perms or change manifest so app still works. Does the flashlight app need camera permission, maybe for the flash, your account, contact, All network info and superuser access, NO. So I simply figure the appropriate tool and use it. But takes time, learning curve and nothing is 100%.
I meant to just agree about keeping articles updated. But there are ways you can keep your favorite app. Don't immediately update (admitted not best practice always, but sometimes updated are worse), read reviews first, use XDA, or even FDroid if you want, Root, but know what you are doing, and/or simply keep a backup of your favorite version of app in case of accidental update. Much of above is risky more risky which MEANS READING ARTICLES EASILY SEEN ARE UPDATED OR CURRENT.
- Thanks Dude for share such an informative article
- How to monitor dns request ? What is the name of the app?
- Why do you say not to use Clean Master in this article, yet #4 on this list, CLEAN it has a link to clean-up aps you have tested, and in that article you can't say enough good things about Clean Master? What's the deal?
- He's not the one who praised Clean Master in that linked article. He linked to another author's article without reading through it is my guess.
- I would add Shareit, after the last update it became insanely inhabited by ads inside the app to the extant it gives you a timeline of them!
- In #9, you say not to install Clean Master, but in #4, you put a link to your '5 Apps That Really Clean Up Your Android Device' article and the first one in the list is Clean Master. So should we install it or not? If you are going to link to another of your articles, perhaps you should re-read the other article first.
- He’s not the one who praised Clean Master in that linked article. He linked to another author’s article without reading through it is my guess.
- People need learn a boat these apps. Most people use android and think they don't have to be smart about it.Quick pic is one of the worst available. And most people still using it are using older resigned versions before it was bought out by CM.
- Thats exactly the thing I did after reading about the tracking stuff.
- I should have kept reading before replying above. But whatever was relevant above too. Most that I know that keep up with these things do exactly what you said or never update and keep a backup (original copy of APK, Titanium and unlink from market, whatever). Nothing I know from 'CheatYa' will go on my phone, but they make it hard sometimes to know where am app is coming from. How many apps on PlayStore have only an email for the dev, and how many apps are being found that had malicious or potentially malicious code basked in caught by 3rd party security firms, people, communities?
Trade off with Android is the basic security vs. convenience trade. Secure is Not convenient and usually to an extent vice versa. So there is a learning curve on best practices which not all agree on every aspect. I still use pre-Cheetah QuickPic and ES 3.2.5.0.
- I really hope dolphin browser gets banned or something!
- facebook. Chews data, chews battery and heats up my phone.
- Agreed. Alternatives are Metal, Swipe Pro, Facebook lite (found on APK mirror) or simply using your browser to access it.
- You want to say that millions of people whom downloaded these apps are wrong and you only you is right?
- yes
- yes
- Considering the apps' effects on people's mobile devices, that seems to be a logical conclusion. Millions of people eat at McDonald's, but that doesn't make it gourmet cuisine.
- Hypocrite much? Denouncing (admittedly) terrible apps and then simultaneously recommending them on a different article you linked as 'alternatives' aside, Music Player? Can you be any more generic?At least with the other apps you're denouncing, the name of the app is either unique so it can't be mistaken for something else, or has a picture of the play store listing to identify it. With 'Music Player' there is no identifying information. No photo of the Play Store listing or link to the app. Just 'Music Player' and a pic of some reviews that could be for any app.Seriously? There are AT LEAST 20 apps in the Play Store titled 'Music Player.' Without identifying which one you're denouncing, you're potentially damaging the reputation of dozens of developers of identically named apps that have nothing to do with the agenda you're pushing.So I agree with the rest of the apps on the list? Yes. Is it good to get the word out? Absolutely. But do some fact checking and proof reading and don't publish incomplete and potentially damaging information. And don't push users to install 'alternatives' in another article on your site that includes the same apps you're denouncing and more of similar function, most of which are probably paid endorsements anyway, given your loose 'affiliate disclaimer.'
- That's not because McDonald's food contains virus, rather its their pocket
- Good article but you warn us not to use QuickPic but then link to your 'gallery apps for Android' page where QuickPic is the #1 recommendation!
Similarly, you advise against installing CLEAN it and Clean Master but then you wrote 'You can also try these clean-up apps that we’ve tested' which included a link to your 'Apps That Really Clean Up Your Android Device' page where Clean Master is highly recommended!- LOL. I wonder if he was smoking crack while typing this up?
- You say Clean Master is bad (I agree) but you include it among the suggested cleaning apps in the linked article '5 Apps That Really Clean Up Your Android Device'.
- where's facebook app? also messenger
- So one person thinks maybe some extra connections might be coming from QuicPic and all of a sudden its bad? Seriously terrible assumption. I've used QuickPic for years and, aside from the cloud feature mention above (turned off obviously) I havent seen any untoward issues, connections or actions from QuickPic.
At least make the effort to try and do some independent research yourself.- u wot m8?It was bought by Cheetah Mobile, known spyware makers and was infected almost immediately. Unless you are locked to an older pre buyout version, uninstall now.
- Nope. ver 4.69.1.1468. Unless you've got proof (not innuendo, supposition or he said/she said) to the contrary, I call BS. M8ie.I scan regularly with AppBugs, Clueful and other tools. Of course they could ALL be wrong. So please, lay it out for us.
- If you don't understand then something like this is over your head. Also all those apps you use use to scan are just as much BS. Any real threat in android can't be picked up by apps like that.
- Right, because you're the only smart guy in the room. Since you know nothing about me or what I may or may not know, any subsequent assessment is a waste of breath.So, once again, Unless you’ve got proof (not innuendo, supposition or he said/she said) to the contrary, I call BS.
- Never said I was. Your statement says everything. The proof is all around. Want some yourself. Run a logcat (find the info) over night and just watch.Apps like this make tons off of people just like you. They target the less savy users. Nothing wrong with it but don't try to defend something against others that have been doing this for far longer then you have even known what a smart device was. Most of CM apps contain malware that has been blocked by many government agencies. Think that is for no good reason?
- Every one of your responses says just that.look at me, I can logcat. Your assumptions are unfounded since you know nothing about the people you cast thinly veiled aspersion toward. Look at me, I can say logcat and say people like you (assuming you know anything about me).Anyone worth their stones would happily provide real data or links to investigations that prove/support their theory. Wankers that want to make themselves sound smart and cool say things like 'Run a logcat (find the info)' and 'They target the less savy users.' attempting to insinuate that you know more than the people below you.I'm not trying to defend anyone. I am calling BS based on unsupported statements. Same as I do people that say herbs can cure cancer (maybe they can but there is no factual/scientific data to support it). You even state 'Most of CM apps. ' so where's the proof that QuickPic is one of them?Again, source? Please provide a factual list of Government agencies that are blocking Quickpic.So, put up or shutup. No long term data/reporting, you've got nothing more than chest thumping puffery. Look at me! I am smart. I can say logcat!
- You are a moron! Run the logcat, that is the proof you half-wit! You sound like a developer defending your garbage. Prove you're not.
- Facebook App. It is huuuge.
- I've uninstall facebook and messenger, gained 20% sot.
- Please use Levipic instead of QuickPic! This app is much better and supports Geo locations and so on. From an independent developer!
- Ah, thank you - I have Clean Master.
In 5 minutes that's going to be 'I had'
Appreciate it!
xxXxx - https://siteaqua.weebly.com/wedding-photo-software-for-mac.html. QuickPic is clean, if you disable the cloud upload thingy, which is like the first question it asks. It is the fastest picture viewer on Android hands down. ES File Explorer has useful and useless features. You know what else has them? Everything else! non-disable-able notification bar pop-ups? Do you even Android, bro? Every notification can be blocked since 4.0, also there are NO notification bar popups from that application.
- nice article to think about. nevertheless you should update your linked articles too. In the gallery article QuickPic is mentioned on top as recommendation.
- Another question: There is a ES File Explorer Pro app. Does your article apply to this version too? Can you recommend the Pro version?I'm asking because of the FTP Server functionality in ES which I am using to sync my devices at home with my backup machine.
- ES File Explorer Pro is fine. Everyone is so shocked when a developer tries to monetize their app. If you don't want ads pay for the app. People are too cheap.
- +1 million upvotes on the cheap people comment. It's not like these apps are outrageously expensive! 'I'll throw $60 at a video game, but I'm not paying this independent dev .99 because it's a ripoff.'Geesh.
- No one with common sense pays attention to the recommendations. Ever since it was found that reviews were faked and companies were buying reviews and stars. Only noobs pay attention to the reviews.
- OK, what kind of FUD is this? You say we should not install Clean Master. You post a link to your review of system clean up apps. First item on the list? Clean Master.Yeah, Dolphin has ads. You know what Dolphin also has? Plug ins, like LastPass Evernote, Pocket, and a host of others. I lament the loss in functionality each time I use chrome.
- I concur re. ES File Explorer: it used to be a great, simple app. Then they started adding crap to it, progressively making it more difficult to use. I switched to Total Commander: not as simple as ES was, but does what you need it to do without the crap.