Seeing an "Update Google Play Services" error? Here's what to do

Has your Android phone started nagging you constantly about updating Google Play Services? You’re not alone. Many users have recently seen a persistent notification, often saying things like “messages won’t run unless you update Google services.” This pop-up can be pretty frustrating, especially when you tap it, go to the Play Store, and find there’s no actual update available or you only see an “Uninstall” option.

Google Play Services is a crucial background process on Android devices. It helps keep your apps updated and running smoothly, and allows apps to communicate with Google’s services. So it explains why so many people have been left frustrated with this ongoing issue. The main thread on Google’s support forums has over 500 votes from people claiming that they’re experiencing the issue too.

Apart from Google’s forums, I’ve spotted reports on platforms like Reddit and even Samsung’s community forums, indicating that this has indeed been a widespread frustration.

First, don’t panic. Your messages, apps and Play Store itself still work fine. The trick is to break the notification loop. Start by clearing cache and data for both Google Play Services and the Play Store. On most phones you can do this by going to Settings, tapping Apps, finding each app, then choosing Storage and hitting Clear cache and Clear data. A quick reboot after that often gives you a little breathing room.

If that doesn’t stick try uninstalling updates for Play Services. In the same app info screen choose the three-dot menu and select Uninstall updates. After a restart go back and install the latest version again. Some users have found success with the non-beta release numbered 25.18.33 (260400-756823100). Recent chatter in the Android Enterprise forums suggests Google has already rolled out a permanent fix in Play Store version 46.1.39-31, so updating your Play Store app may lock the problem down for good.

If you’d rather not fiddle with uninstalling and reinstalling you can also mute the warning. Just long-press the notification, tap App info, and turn off notifications for Google Play Services. You’ll still get security alerts but those nagging update reminders will stay hidden.

One user who tried multiple fixes summed it up this way:

If you clear cache and data for the Play Store the loop stops for a while but comes right back.

That pretty much covers it. Stick with the steps above and keep an eye on your Play Store updates.

Featured image credit: davidtse916 / Reddit