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Google Play services

System appAndroid 6 and laterSafe to delete: No
Checked against official documentationLast reviewed 1 min read

Google Play services is a background system app that gives apps access to Google features such as sign-in, location, push notifications, Find Hub and security updates delivered through Google Play. Many apps do not work correctly without it. It updates itself automatically.

1What it does

Apps use Google Play services through programming interfaces for maps and location, Firebase Cloud Messaging notifications, Google sign-in, and Play Protect. Because these run in one shared app, the battery and data use of other apps can show up under Google Play services.

2Battery and storage

High battery use by Google Play services usually comes from apps that request location or sync often. Settings > Battery > Battery usage and the location permissions of apps show which ones.

3Updates

Google Play services updates in the background. Its version and a link to update it are in Settings > Apps > Google Play services > App details in store.

How to fix problems with Google Play services

  1. Open Settings > Apps > Google Play services.
  2. Tap App details in store and update it if an update is offered.
  3. Tap Storage & cache > Clear cache.
  4. Restart the phone.
  5. If problems continue, check the date and time settings and free storage space.

Cautions

  • Do not disable or force-stop Google Play services; notifications, sign-in and location stop working in many apps.
  • 'Clear storage' for Google Play services removes saved data such as some app settings; prefer 'Clear cache'.

Sources

  1. Overview of Google Play services (Google for Developers) developers.google.com
  2. Keep your device & apps working with Google Play services (Google Play Help) support.google.com

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