How to uninstall updates to system apps on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Uninstalling updates to system apps on Android can help resolve issues caused by recent changes or bugs. This process can be done through the device settings or using ADB commands for more advanced users.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before proceeding with uninstalling updates to system apps, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •Android device running Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) or later.
  • •Sufficient storage space to accommodate the rollback.
  • •Device must be charged to at least 50% to prevent shutdown during the process.
  • •Admin access to the device settings.
  • •Backup important data to avoid loss.

Method 1: Uninstall Updates via Settings

This method is the most straightforward way to uninstall updates for system apps directly from the device settings.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your Android device.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and select 'Apps' or 'Applications'.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'See all apps' or 'App info' to view the list of installed applications.
  • •Step 4: Locate and select the system app you wish to uninstall updates for (e.g., 'Google Play Services').
  • •Step 5: Tap on the three-dot menu in the top right corner (if available) and select 'Uninstall updates'.
  • •Step 6: Confirm the action when prompted by tapping 'OK'.
  • •Step 7: Verify that the app has reverted to its factory version by checking the version number in the app info.
  • •Step 8: If the app does not revert, try restarting your device and repeat the steps.

For Android 11 and 12

Steps may vary slightly in Android 11 and 12 due to UI changes.
  • •In Step 2, the 'Apps' option may be labeled as 'Apps & notifications'.
  • •In Step 5, the option to uninstall updates might be directly visible without needing the three-dot menu.

For Android 10 and earlier

Older versions may have different settings layouts.
  • •In Step 1, the 'Settings' app may have a different icon or be located in a different section.
  • •In Step 4, the app list may be categorized differently, requiring navigation through 'System apps'.

Method 2: Uninstall Updates via ADB (Android Debug Bridge)

For advanced users, using ADB allows for more control over system apps and can be used to uninstall updates even when the option is not available in settings.
  • •Step 1: Ensure ADB is installed on your computer. You can download it from the official Android developer website.
  • •Step 2: Enable 'Developer options' on your Android device by going to 'Settings' > 'About phone' and tapping 'Build number' seven times.
  • •Step 3: In 'Developer options', enable 'USB debugging'.
  • •Step 4: Connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable.
  • •Step 5: Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer.
  • •Step 6: Type 'adb devices' and press Enter to ensure your device is recognized.
  • •Step 7: Type 'adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 <package_name>' replacing <package_name> with the actual package name of the app (e.g., 'com.google.android.gms' for Google Play Services).
  • •Step 8: Press Enter and wait for the command to execute.
  • •Step 9: Verify the app has reverted by checking its version in the app settings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to uninstall updates, refer to the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Uninstall updates' option is grayed out - Solution: Ensure you have admin access and that the app is a system app.
  • •Issue: App does not revert after uninstalling updates - Fix: Restart your device and check the app version again.
  • •Problem: ADB command fails with 'device not found' - Workaround: Ensure USB debugging is enabled and the device is properly connected.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these power user tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + T - Reopens the last closed terminal window.
  • •Command line: adb shell pm list packages - Lists all installed packages on your device.
  • •Hidden feature: Access Developer options - Tap 'Build number' multiple times in 'About phone' to unlock additional features.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, combine both methods to ensure a thorough removal of updates.