Why Does My Tablet Keep Saying Google Play Services Has Stopped

Introduction

Have you encountered the frustrating message “Google Play Services has stopped” on your tablet? If so, you’re not alone. Many tablet users face this issue, which can hinder the proper functioning of various apps and services. Understanding the root causes of this error can help you troubleshoot and resolve the problem, ensuring a seamless experience on your device.

Google Play Services is a crucial component of the Android operating system. It serves as a bridge between your device’s apps and the Google ecosystem, providing essential services and APIs for smooth functionality. These services include authentication, in-app purchases, location services, cloud storage, and more. In essence, Google Play Services acts as a backbone, ensuring that your tablet can access and utilize the full range of Google features.

However, due to various factors, such as insufficient storage space, outdated versions, or conflicting software, Google Play Services can encounter errors, resulting in the “Google Play Services has stopped” message. This interruption not only affects the performance of specific apps but can also disrupt the overall usage of your tablet.

In this article, we will dive into the common causes of this error and provide you with practical solutions to get your tablet back up and running smoothly. We will explore methods such as clearing cache and data, updating the app, and even resorting to a factory reset if necessary.

So, if you’re tired of dealing with the annoying “Google Play Services has stopped” message on your tablet, let’s explore the steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue, ensuring that you can enjoy your device to the fullest without any interruptions.

What is Google Play Services?

Before we delve into troubleshooting the “Google Play Services has stopped” error on your tablet, it’s essential to understand what Google Play Services is and the role it plays in your device’s functionality.

Google Play Services acts as a framework that enables interaction between your Android tablet and the various Google services and apps. It provides essential functionality and APIs to ensure a seamless experience across different apps and services.

This powerful component powers various features on your tablet, including:

Google Sign-In: Google Play Services enables the easy integration of Google’s sign-in system, allowing you to log in to apps and services using your Google account credentials.
Location Services: With the help of Google Play Services, apps on your tablet can access accurate location information, making services like Google Maps and location-based apps function flawlessly.
In-App Purchases: Google Play Services facilitates hassle-free in-app purchases, enabling developers to offer paid content and unlockable features within their apps.
Cloud Messaging: It allows apps to send and receive messages using the cloud, enabling push notifications and real-time communication.
Google Play Store Updates: Google Play Services ensures that your device’s apps, including the Play Store itself, stay up to date by automatically delivering updates in the background.
Standards for Developers: Google Play Services provides developers with APIs and libraries to create high-quality apps that seamlessly integrate with Google services.

These are just a few examples of the wide range of features provided by Google Play Services. It acts as a fundamental layer that enhances your tablet’s functionality and helps developers deliver a consistent experience across different devices.

Now that we have a better understanding of what Google Play Services is and its significance, let’s explore the common causes behind the “Google Play Services has stopped” error on your tablet and how to fix it.

Common Causes of Google Play Services Errors

Encountering the error message “Google Play Services has stopped” on your tablet can be frustrating, but understanding the common causes behind this issue can help you troubleshoot and resolve it effectively. Here are some of the most frequent culprits:

Insufficient Storage Space: When your tablet’s storage space is nearing its capacity, it can lead to various issues, including Google Play Services errors. Insufficient storage can affect the performance of installed apps, including the underlying services provided by Google Play Services.
Outdated Google Play Services Version: Using an outdated version of Google Play Services can cause compatibility issues with apps and services that rely on the latest updates. The outdated version can conflict with other updated apps, leading to errors and instability.
Corrupted Cache or Data: Over time, the cache and data stored by Google Play Services can become corrupt, resulting in errors. These corrupted files may hinder the proper functioning of the service, causing it to stop unexpectedly.
Conflicting Software: Certain apps or software on your tablet may conflict with Google Play Services, leading to errors and interruptions. These conflicts can arise due to incompatible settings or overlapping functionalities.
Network Issues: Poor or unstable network connectivity can also contribute to Google Play Services errors. When your tablet struggles to maintain a stable internet connection, it affects the communication between the device and the Google servers, resulting in interruptions and errors.
System Updates: In some cases, system updates on your tablet can cause conflicts with Google Play Services. The updated system may introduce changes that are not compatible with the existing version of Google Play Services, leading to errors.

These are just a few of the many possible causes of Google Play Services errors on your tablet. It’s important to keep these factors in mind as we explore the troubleshooting steps in the following sections. By identifying the root cause of the problem, you can undertake the appropriate measures to fix the issue and restore the smooth functioning of Google Play Services on your tablet.

Insufficient Storage Space

One of the common causes of the “Google Play Services has stopped” error on your tablet is insufficient storage space. When your device’s storage is almost full, it can affect the performance of various apps and services, including Google Play Services. Here’s what you can do to tackle this issue:

Check Storage Space: Go to your tablet’s settings and navigate to the storage or storage settings section. Here, you can see how much storage space is available on your device and how much is being used. If the storage is almost full, it’s time to free up some space.
Clear App Cache: Open the settings on your tablet and find the Apps or Application Manager section. Look for Google Play Services in the list of installed apps and tap on it. Within the app settings, you will find an option to clear the cache. This will remove temporary files that may be taking up unnecessary space and causing issues.
Move Apps to External Storage: If your tablet supports external storage, consider moving apps that allow it to the SD card. This will free up space on your device’s internal storage. To do this, go to the settings and navigate to the Apps or Application Manager section. Find the app you want to move and look for the “Move to SD card” option.
Delete Unnecessary Apps and Files: Review the apps and files on your tablet and identify those that you no longer need. Uninstalling unused apps and deleting unnecessary files can significantly free up storage space. You can do this by going to the settings, selecting Apps or Application Manager, and uninstalling the desired apps. Additionally, you can use a file manager app to locate and remove unnecessary files.
Use Cloud Storage: If you have a lot of files or data that you don’t frequently access, consider utilizing cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. These services allow you to store your files online, freeing up space on your tablet while still keeping your data accessible.

By following these steps, you can create more space on your tablet’s storage, which can help resolve the “Google Play Services has stopped” error caused by insufficient storage. Remember to periodically review and manage your device’s storage to prevent similar issues in the future.

Outdated Google Play Services Version

Using an outdated version of Google Play Services can often lead to the “Google Play Services has stopped” error on your tablet. It’s important to keep Google Play Services up to date to ensure compatibility with the latest apps and services. Here’s how you can update it:

Check for Updates: Open the Google Play Store on your tablet and search for “Google Play Services” in the search bar. If an update is available, you will see an “Update” button next to it. Tap on the button to initiate the update process. Alternatively, you can go to the “My apps & games” section in the Play Store and look for Google Play Services in the list of installed apps. If an update is available, it will be listed there.
Enable Automatic Updates: To ensure that Google Play Services is always up to date, you can enable automatic updates for your apps. Go to the settings in the Google Play Store, tap on “Auto-update apps,” and select the “Auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only” option. This way, your tablet will automatically download and install updates for Google Play Services when connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Sideload the Latest Version: If you cannot update Google Play Services through the Play Store, you can try manually installing the latest version by sideloading the APK file. To do this, search online for the latest APK file of Google Play Services compatible with your tablet’s Android version. Download the APK file from a reliable source, enable the installation of apps from unknown sources in your tablet’s settings, and then manually install the APK file.
Reset Google Play Store: Sometimes, issues with the Google Play Store can affect the updating process of Google Play Services. You can try resetting the Play Store to resolve this. Go to your tablet’s settings, find the Apps or Application Manager section, and locate Google Play Store. Tap on it and select the “Storage” option. From there, choose “Clear storage” or “Clear data” to reset the Play Store. Afterward, open the Play Store again and check for updates for Google Play Services.

By keeping Google Play Services updated, you ensure that your tablet has the latest features, bug fixes, and compatibility with apps and services that rely on it. Regularly checking for updates and enabling automatic updates can help you avoid the “Google Play Services has stopped” error caused by using an outdated version.

Clearing the Cache and Data of Google Play Services

Clearing the cache and data of Google Play Services can often resolve the “Google Play Services has stopped” error on your tablet. It removes any corrupted or outdated files and resets the app to its default state. Here’s how you can do it:

Go to Settings: Open the settings on your tablet and navigate to the Apps or Application Manager section.
Find Google Play Services: Look for Google Play Services in the list of installed apps and tap on it.
Clear Cache: Within the app settings, you will find an option to clear the cache. Tap on it to delete the temporary files stored by Google Play Services.
Clear Data: In addition to clearing the cache, you can also clear the data. This will remove any app-specific settings and configurations, so be aware that you may need to sign in again to certain apps. Tap on the “Clear Data” or “Storage” option to proceed.
Confirm: A confirmation prompt will appear asking if you want to delete the app’s data. Confirm your selection, and the cache and data will be cleared.

After clearing the cache and data of Google Play Services, restart your tablet to allow the changes to take effect. This can help resolve any issues that were caused by corrupted or outdated files within the app.

It’s important to note that clearing the data of Google Play Services may reset some app-specific settings, including signed-in accounts and customized preferences. Therefore, you might need to sign in to certain apps again or adjust their settings according to your preferences.

If the “Google Play Services has stopped” error persists even after clearing the cache and data, you may need to explore other troubleshooting methods covered in this article to ensure the smooth functioning of Google Play Services on your tablet.

Re-enabling Google Play Services

If you have disabled Google Play Services on your tablet, it can result in the “Google Play Services has stopped” error. Disabling this vital component can cause various apps and services to malfunction. Here’s how you can re-enable Google Play Services:

Go to Settings: Open the settings on your tablet and navigate to the Apps or Application Manager section.
Find Google Play Services: Look for Google Play Services in the list of installed apps. If you don’t see it, tap on the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner and select “Show system apps.”
Enable the App: Tap on Google Play Services and then select the “Enable” option (or “Enable app” depending on your device).
Confirm: A confirmation prompt may appear asking if you want to enable the app. Confirm your selection, and Google Play Services will be re-enabled on your tablet.

After re-enabling Google Play Services, restart your tablet to ensure that the changes take effect. This should help resolve any issues related to the disabled Google Play Services and prevent the “Google Play Services has stopped” error from appearing.

Disabling Google Play Services can sometimes be accidental or intentional, especially for advanced users who are trying to customize their device or manage battery usage. However, it’s important to note that disabling this essential component can have adverse effects on the functioning of your tablet.

If the “Google Play Services has stopped” error persists even after re-enabling the app, you may need to explore other troubleshooting methods covered in this article to ensure the smooth functioning of Google Play Services on your tablet.

Updating Google Play Services

Keeping Google Play Services updated is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and compatibility with the latest apps and services on your tablet. If you are experiencing the “Google Play Services has stopped” error, it might be due to an outdated version of the app. Here’s how to update Google Play Services:

Open the Play Store: Go to the Google Play Store on your tablet.
Search for Google Play Services: In the search bar, type “Google Play Services” and search for it.
Check for Updates: If an update is available for Google Play Services, you will see an “Update” button next to it. Tap on the button to initiate the update process.
Wait for the Update: The Play Store will download and install the latest version of Google Play Services on your tablet. This may take a few moments, depending on your internet speed.
Restart your Tablet: After the update is complete, it’s a good practice to restart your tablet to ensure that the changes take effect and the updated version of Google Play Services is fully integrated.

Enabling automatic updates for all your apps in the Play Store is also a great way to ensure that Google Play Services stays up to date without manual intervention. To enable automatic updates, go to the settings in the Google Play Store, tap on “Auto-update apps,” and select the “Auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only” option.

Regularly updating Google Play Services is essential as it brings improvements, bug fixes, and new features, ensuring a smooth experience on your tablet. It also helps maintain compatibility with the latest apps and services, reducing the likelihood of encountering errors like “Google Play Services has stopped.”

If you have already updated Google Play Services and are still facing the error, you may need to explore other troubleshooting methods covered in this article to address the issue effectively.

Uninstalling and Reinstalling Google Play Services

If you continue to encounter the “Google Play Services has stopped” error on your tablet despite trying other troubleshooting methods, uninstalling and reinstalling Google Play Services may be necessary. This process can help resolve any corrupted or conflicting files within the app. Here’s how to do it:

Go to Settings: Open the settings on your tablet and navigate to the Apps or Application Manager section.
Find Google Play Services: Look for Google Play Services in the list of installed apps. If you don’t see it, tap on the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner and select “Show system apps.”
Uninstall the App: Tap on Google Play Services and then select the “Uninstall” option (or “Uninstall updates” depending on your device). Confirm the uninstallation when prompted.
Restart your Tablet: After uninstalling Google Play Services, restart your tablet to complete the process.
Reinstall Google Play Services: Open the Google Play Store on your tablet and search for “Google Play Services” in the search bar. Locate the app in the search results and tap on the “Install” button. The Play Store will download and install the latest version of Google Play Services on your tablet.
Restart your Tablet: Once the installation is complete, it’s recommended to restart your tablet to ensure that the changes take effect and the reinstalled version of Google Play Services functions properly.

Uninstalling and reinstalling Google Play Services can help resolve issues caused by corrupted or conflicting files within the app. It essentially provides a fresh start and ensures that you have a clean installation of the latest version of Google Play Services on your tablet.

Keep in mind that Google Play Services is a system app, and uninstalling it may temporarily disrupt the functionality of certain apps and services on your tablet. However, once you reinstall the app, it should restore their proper functioning.

If the “Google Play Services has stopped” error persists even after uninstalling and reinstalling the app, you may need to explore other troubleshooting methods covered in this article to resolve the issue.

Factory Resetting the Tablet

If you have exhausted all other troubleshooting methods and are still facing the “Google Play Services has stopped” error on your tablet, performing a factory reset might be the next step. A factory reset will erase all data and settings on your tablet, restoring it to its original state. Here’s how you can perform a factory reset:

Note: Before proceeding with a factory reset, ensure that you have backed up all important data as it will be permanently erased.

Backup Your Data: Go to the settings on your tablet and find the “Backup & reset” or “System” section. Look for options to back up your data, including photos, contacts, and app data. You can either use the built-in backup options or use third-party backup solutions.
Factory Reset: Once your data is safely backed up, find the “Factory Reset” or “Reset” option in the settings. The exact location may vary depending on your device. Tap on the option and follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the factory reset. The reset process may take several minutes to complete.
Setup Your Tablet: After the reset is complete, your tablet will restart as if you just took it out of the box. Follow the setup process, including selecting your language, connecting to a Wi-Fi network, and signing in with your Google account.
Reinstall Apps and Restore Data: Once you have completed the setup process, reinstall the apps you need from the Google Play Store. You can also restore your backed-up data by following the prompts provided during the setup or by manually restoring it from the backup you made earlier.

Performing a factory reset effectively wipes your tablet clean and removes any issues that may have been causing the “Google Play Services has stopped” error. However, it is a drastic step and should be used as a last resort when all other troubleshooting methods have failed.

Remember to reinstall only the necessary apps and be cautious when restoring data to ensure a clean and optimized experience on your tablet.

If the error persists even after a factory reset, it is recommended to seek further assistance from the device manufacturer or a professional technician to address the issue thoroughly.

Conclusion

Encountering the “Google Play Services has stopped” error on your tablet can be frustrating, but with the troubleshooting methods covered in this article, you can address the issue and restore the smooth functioning of Google Play Services. We explored common causes such as insufficient storage space, outdated versions, corrupted cache or data, conflicting software, network issues, and system updates.

By resolving these issues, you can ensure that your tablet can access and utilize the full range of Google services and features provided by Google Play Services. Remember to frequently check for updates, clear cache and data, and re-enable the app if necessary. If all else fails, uninstalling and reinstalling Google Play Services or performing a factory reset may be necessary, but exercise caution as these are more drastic measures.

It is essential to keep your tablet’s software and apps up to date to avoid compatibility issues and potential errors. Regularly review and manage your device’s storage to ensure sufficient space for smooth operation.

If you are still experiencing difficulties after employing these methods, it may be best to consult the device manufacturer or seek professional assistance from a technician who specializes in tablet troubleshooting.

By taking the time to troubleshoot and address the “Google Play Services has stopped” error, you can enjoy a seamless and uninterrupted experience on your tablet, making the most out of the wide range of apps and services that rely on Google Play Services.