Did you install an update to an app on your Android and discover that you want to roll back the app to a previous version? Only certain phones and certain apps will allow you to uninstall an app’s updates—most phones and apps will not have this option. If you don’t have that option and you want to install an older version of an app, you will have to install the older version manually by uninstalling it from a third-party source. Google does not recommend installing apps from third-party sources as they can contain malware or harm your phone. This guide teaches you how to uninstall an app and install an unofficial older version of the app on your Android phone.

Warning: Installing apps from third-party sources can expose your device to malware and potential harm. Proceed at your own risk, and only download from trusted sites like APKMirror.

How to uninstall app updates on Android

Follow these methods to revert app updates or install older versions on your device.

Method 1: Uninstalling pre-installed app updates

  • Open the Settings app.
  • TapApps from the list.
  • Tap the menu icon in the upper-right corner.
  • Toggle the switch next to Show system apps to turn it on.
  • Select the app from the list.
  • Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) at the top-right of the app’s info page.
  • TapUninstall updates.
  • TapOK in the confirmation pop-up.
  • Open the Google Play Store and disable auto-updates for the app to prevent it from updating again.

Note: This option is only available for certain pre-installed apps on specific Android devices.

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Method 2: Installing an older app version on Android 8.0 and later

  • DownloadAPK Installer: Open the Google Play Store, search for “APK Installer,” and tapInstall.
  • Download and runDroid Hardware Info: Open the Play Store, search for “Droid Hardware Info,” tapInstall, then tapOpen.
  • Note your OS version and DPI: In the Device tab, record the OS Version and Software Density (DPI).
  • Note your CPU architecture: In the System tab, record the CPU Architecture and Instruction Sets (such as ARM, x86, 32-bit, or 64-bit).
  • Uninstall the app you want to downgrade: Go to Settings → Apps → select the app → tapForce Stop → tapUninstall.
  • AllowAPK Installer to install from unknown sources: Go to Settings → Apps → three-dot menu (⋮) → Special access → Install unknown apps → enable it for APK Installer.
  • OpenAPKMirror in your mobile browser.
  • Search for the app using the magnifying glass icon, then navigate to All versions.
  • Select the version you want by tapping its icon.
  • Download the APK: TapSEE AVAILABLE APKS and choose the variant matching your CPU architecture and screen density.
  • Install the APK: In your Downloads folder, tap the APK file, selectAPK Installer, tapAlways, then tapInstall.

Method 3: Installing an older app version on Android 7.0 and earlier

  • Download and runDroid Hardware Info: Install it through the Play Store and open it.
  • Note your OS version and DPI: In the Device tab, record the OS Version and DPI.
  • Note your CPU architecture: In the System tab, record CPU Architecture and Instruction Sets.
  • Uninstall the app you want to downgrade: Go to Settings → Apps → select the app → tapForce Stop → tapUninstall.
  • Enable apps from unknown sources: Go to Settings → Lock screen and security → toggleUnknown sources on.
  • OpenAPKMirror in your mobile browser.
  • Search for the app using the magnifying glass or Apps tab.
  • Select the version you want to download.
  • Download the APK: TapSEE AVAILABLE APKS and choose the variant matching your device specs.
  • Install the APK: Open your Downloads folder, tap the APK file, then tapInstall.
Pro tip: After installing an older app version, consider using a firewall app like NoRoot Firewall to block the app from connecting to the Play Store and auto-updating without your permission.

Why this matters

Reverting app updates gives you control over your Android experience, especially when a new version introduces bugs, removes features you love, or increases battery drain. By uninstalling updates or sideloading older APKs, you can maintain the stability and functionality that suits your needs best. This is particularly useful for power users who rely on specific app behaviors for productivity or gaming.

However, it’s important to weigh the risks, as older versions might lack security patches that protect against vulnerabilities. Regularly check for safer alternatives, like developer betas or official rollback options from the app maker. Ultimately, this process empowers you to customize your device, but always prioritize security to avoid compromising your data or privacy.