As an Android user, you must be aware that Play Store is a one-stop shop for all your device’s amazing and latest apps. Recently, there have been numerous reports by users regarding their Play Store getting uninstalled or missing from their app menu. Well, with a few workarounds, it is possible to reinstall the Google Play Store on your Android phone. We will guide you through the process in today’s guide.
How to Get the Play Store Back on Android
Google Play Store can disappear unexpectedly due to a glitch, or you might have accidentally uninstalled it. You can easily reinstall it.
Method 1: Unhide the Play Store App
You might have accidentally sent Play Store to the hidden folder and now struggle to find them. You must go through your hidden app folder first.
- Go to your phone Settings and tap on the Privacy.
- Tap on Hide Apps.
- Enter the Pin Code to access the folder and if you find Play Store there, unhide it.
Method 2: Enable Play Store from App Settings
Play Store is a pre-installed app that cannot be removed, however, you can easily disable it. Disabling it will lead to the disappearance of the Play Store icon. To re-enable it, follow the below steps:
- Open Settings on your phone and head over to the Apps section.
- Tap on Disabled Apps.
- If you find Play Store, tap and open it.
- Finally, tap on the Enable option to get the Play Store back.
Method 3: Install Via APK File
If you are unable to find Google Play Store even in the Disabled Apps section, then there is a possibility that it is completely removed from your device and in that case, you’ll need to install it using an APK file. You can install the Google Play Store using Android APK’s Box Mirror:
- Download the Play Store’s APK file on your Android.
- Once downloaded, access the file from the File Manager and install the APK file.
- Restart your phone and you’ll have the Play Store app back on your phone.
Method 4: Perform a Hard Reset
Performing a hard reset on your Android device will take it back to its original state, just as it was when you first purchased it, restoring it to the factory settings. It is important to create a backup of all your data before starting this process.
- Open your phone’s Settings.
- Choose System and then select Reset Options.
- Tap on Erase all data (factory reset).
- Proceed with the on-screen instructions to factory reset your data.
This will leave your phone only with the default apps which include Google Play Store
Why Did My Play Store App Disappear?
Google Play Store app cannot be removed easily from a phone, however, if your Play Store app is missing, there could be the following reasons:
- The most common case is disabling the Play Store app accidentally.
- Sometimes, a system update also removes or disables certain apps.
- Using a device with a multi-user profile can also confuse users. There might be a chance that the Play Store app is restricted in one of the profiles.
Why Can’t I Install Apps from the Google Play Store?
If you are facing trouble while downloading an app from the Google Play Store, the very first reason could be a weak internet or Wi-Fi connection which can be causing trouble. Also, there might be a problem with your account which has led to the restriction of app installations on your phone. Lastly, corrupt cache files of Play Store can also be the reason.
Also Read: 15 Ways to Fix Google Play Store Error Checking for Updates
Getting Google Play Store back on your Android is a bit complex but with the methods provided, you can reinstall it quickly. If you have suggestions, do share them in the comments and Stay connected to Techcult for more app-related guides.
