When you download an app from the Google Play Store, do you get the message “Waiting for download” or “Download pending”? We explain what to do in this case.
If the download of the app from the Google Play Store does not start after a long wait and the loading icon is spinning all the time, you can try the following ways to resolve the issue.
11 recommended solutions to Play Store problems
- Often, the cause of the problem is a poor internet connection. So, first check if your smartphone is properly connected to the internet, for example, websites can be opened normally. VPN usage should not be active either.
- If the message “Waiting for download” or “Download pending” does not disappear, cancel the download as a test, exit the Play Store and restart the download.
- It is always worth trying to restart the smartphone in case of such errors.
- Before downloading the app, make sure you have enough space on your mobile phone or tablet. If necessary, delete unnecessary data.
- Both the Google Play Store and the Android operating system must have the latest version available on your device. Otherwise: Update apps before downloading!
- Check that the time and date are set correctly in the Android settings. As a test, disable automatic time management and then try downloading the app from the Play Store.
- Downloads can be sorted by other apps downloads or updates. So under “Tap Professional Image> Manage Apps & Device> Pending Downloads” check if the apps are currently being downloaded. If necessary, stop the download by tapping the “X” code.
- Clear Play Store application cache. To do this, go to General Android Settings and then go to “Application Management> All Installed Apps> Google Play Store> Storage> Clear Cache”. Then restart the smartphone and try downloading the app again. If it still does not work, select the “Delete Data” option in the path mentioned above.
- Repeat the steps described in point 8 for the “Google Play Services” application.
- Browse the Mobile Data Network as you move: Make sure downloads are not allowed on the WLAN only. You can change this as follows: “Tap on Google Play Store> Settings> Network settings> Preferred download variant of Apps> Through any network / Ask profile picture every time.
- If all else fails, get a full reset of the Android smartphone to factory settings.
Beatrice Ashford is a contributor at Nintendo-power.com, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the world around them.