Trying to download a new app on your Android phone, only to be confronted by the frustrating “Error 491”? Don’t worry – you’re not alone. This common error prevents the Google Play Store from downloading apps, but can be fixed with a few troubleshooting steps.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to resolve Error 491 for good. You’ll learn:
- What causes Error 491 on Android devices
- 12 proven solutions to fix Error 491
- How to avoid Error 491 in the future
- Key takeaways and FAQs on Error 491
By the end, you’ll be able to download apps from the Play Store seamlessly. Let’s get started!
What Causes Error 491 When Downloading Apps on Android?
Before fixing Error 491, it helps to understand what causes it in the first place. Here are the most common culprits:
- Interrupted connection: A poor WiFi or mobile data connection can disrupt downloads and cause Error 491. Switching networks or moving location may resolve it.
- Insufficient storage space: If your phone storage is full, new apps can’t download properly. Clearing space or adding an SD card may help.
- Google Play Store issues: Problems with the Play Store app, corrupt data or outdated version could trigger the error. Updating and reinstalling the app can help.
- Google Play Services problems: Like the Play Store, issues with this related Google app can also cause Error 491 during downloads.
- App issues: Corrupted data or conflicts related to the app you’re downloading may be responsible. Resetting app preferences may resolve it.
- Outdated OS: An outdated version of Android can sometimes cause incompatibility and download issues like Error 491.
- Device maintenance needed: Performance issues, cached data, software conflicts and more could require basic maintenance to fix Error 491.
So in most cases, Error 491 indicates not a problem with your device, but rather an issue with the download process itself. The good news is it can be fixed with some targeted troubleshooting.
12 Solutions to Fix Error 491 When Downloading Apps
Here are 12 steps to fix Error 491 when trying to download apps from the Play Store on your Android device:
1. Restart Your Device
The simplest fix is to restart your Android phone or tablet. This clears any corrupt temporary data that could be causing Error 491.
- Hold down the power button until “Power off” appears. Tap it.
- Once the device is off, press and hold the power button again to restart it.
- Try downloading the app again once the device has fully restarted.
2. Force Close the Play Store App
Error 491 is closely linked to the Play Store app. Force closing it can help resolve any issues causing the error.
- Open your device’s Settings app.
- Tap Apps or Application Manager.
- Tap Google Play Store.
- Choose Force Stop.
- Open the Play Store again and try downloading the app now.
3. Clear Play Store App Data & Cache
Corrupted data and cache files related to the Play Store may trigger Error 491 during app downloads. Clearing them fixes many issues.
- In App Manager, open the Play Store’s info page.
- Tap Storage > Clear Cache to delete temporary files.
- Tap Clear Data to remove corrupt data.
- Restart device and test downloading apps again.
4. Check for Play Store Updates
An outdated version of the Play Store itself could be responsible for Error 491. Updating it to the latest version can resolve this.
- Open the Play Store app.
- Tap the hamburger menu in the top left.
- Tap Settings > About. It will automatically check for and install any updates.
- Once updated, try downloading the app again.
5. Update Google Play Services
Along with the Play Store, an outdated version of Google Play Services can also throw Error 491 during app installs.
- Follow same steps as above to open Play Store Settings.
- Tap About > Google Play services.
- If an update is available, install it. Then test downloads again.
6. Switch to a Stable WiFi or Mobile Network
Network connectivity issues are a common cause of Error 491. Switching to a stable WiFi or fast mobile data network can resolve download interrupts.
- Make sure WiFi is connected with strong signal, or mobile data is switched on.
- Try downloading the app on a different, more reliable network if needed.
- Test on WiFi, 4G, 3G, etc to see if one works better than others.
7. Free Up Storage Space on Your Device
If your phone or tablet storage is completely full, new apps can’t download and install, causing Error 491. Clearing space fixes this.
- Uninstall unused apps, delete old files, or move media to cloud/SD.
- In Settings, clear app cache and other temporary files.
- Check internal storage levels and ensure there’s space available.
- Try downloading the app now with free space available.
8. Remove and Re-Add Google Account
Issues with your Google account syncing to the device can also interfere with Play Store downloads and cause this error.
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Google.
- Tap your Google account and select Remove Account.
- Reboot your device, then go back and add your Google account again.
- Try downloading the app after re-syncing your account.
9. Reset App Preferences
Resetting app preferences clears any potential conflicts or corrupt data related to app installation that could be causing Error 491.
- In Settings, tap Apps > Menu > Reset App Preferences.
- Confirm reset. It’ll revert preferences to default.
- Restart device and attempt downloading the app again.
10. Clear Google Play Store’s Cache and Data
The Play Store maintains its own cache and data on your device. Clearing it forces a refresh which may resolve Error 491.
- Open Settings > Apps > Google Play Store.
- Tap Storage > Clear Data then Clear Cache.
- Once deleted, restart device and reopen Play Store to try downloading again.
11. Perform a Factory Reset
If no other fixes resolve Error 491, a factory reset erases all data and refreshed the device’s software.
Warning: Backup important data first, as factory reset will erase everything.
- Backup photos, files, contacts, notes and anything else needed.
- Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Factory Data Reset.
- Follow prompts to perform full wipe and factory reset your device.
- Set up device again, then attempt downloading the app.
12. Contact Google Play Customer Support
If all else fails, Google provides direct customer support for Play Store issues. Reach them for personalized help resolving Error 491:
- On your computer, visit play.google.com/store
- Click Help > Contact Us to start a live chat session.
- Explain Error 491 issue when downloading apps on your Android device.
- Provide any details requested, then follow troubleshooting steps suggested.
The Google Play team can investigate and advise tailored solutions for your situation. This direct support can help resolve even stubborn Error 491 problems.
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How to Avoid Error 491 When Downloading Apps
Once you’ve resolved Error 491, you can take steps to avoid recurring issues in the future:
- Keep your device updated with the latest Android OS version.
- Regularly update apps like Play Store and Google Play Services.
- Maintain ample free storage space on your phone or tablet.
- Use a stable, fast WiFi or cellular data connection for app downloads.
- If you switch devices, be sure to sync your Google account for access to your apps.
- Clear device cache and restart your phone periodically to prevent performance issues.
- Avoid sideloading apps from third-party stores, and use Google Play for secure downloads.
Following these tips will help minimize common causes of Error 491 during app downloads on your Android device.
Key Takeaways and FAQs on Fixing Error 491
To summarize how to resolve Error 491 when trying to download apps from Google Play Store onto your Android:
Key Takeaways
- Restart your device and force close the Play Store app to refresh processes.
- Update the Play Store app and Google Play Services to their newest versions.
- Switch to a more reliable WiFi or mobile network.
- Clear cache/data for Play Store and Google Play Services apps.
- Free up storage space if your device capacity is full.
- Factory reset device as a last resort if nothing else works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does Error 491 happen when downloading apps?
A: Common causes include connectivity issues, lack of device storage, corrupted app data, Google Play Store problems, and outdated OS.
Q: Will factory reset delete all my apps and data?
A: Yes, factory reset erases everything from your device and restores it to default settings. Backup important data first.
Q: How can I avoid Error 491 when downloading apps?
A: Maintain ample free storage space, use stable WiFi/cellular data, keep Play Store app updated, and clear cached data regularly.
Q: Does Error 491 damage my device?
A: No, Error 491 does not indicate any hardware or permanent issue. It is a software-based download issue that can be fixed with troubleshooting.
Q: What should I do if Error 491 keeps appearing?
A: If fixes like restarting device, clearing app data, factory reset etc don’t work, contact Google Play support for personalized troubleshooting help.
PS: here, you will figure out how to find Android phone repair near me.
Conclusion
Error 491 interrupting app downloads on Android can be annoying. However, identifying the underlying cause and applying the right troubleshooting steps will resolve this error in most cases. Follow the fixes outlined in this guide to clear Error 491 and seamlessly download apps from the Google Play Store again.
