Play Store has a massive collection of apps to install on your Android device. But, what if it says that your device isn’t compatible with this version of the app whenever you try to download an app or game? The same has been happening with a lot of Android users recently. Are you one of them? Don’t worry, you have arrived at the right place.
Here, I will guide you on how to fix the “Device not compatible” error on Play Store. This will help you to install any app or game on any Android device. So, you won’t have to wonder if your device is really that outdated.
What is the Device Not Compatible Error on Play Store?
Play Store is the official market for Android users that one is supposed to use to download apps and games. However, sometimes the Play Store may undergo certain problems that lead to annoying issues. One common example of such an issue that has been recently annoying Android users is- Device not compatible error.
This error prevents you from downloading the app you are trying to install from the Google Play Store. When you click on the ‘Install’ button, it will show you an error message saying “Your device isn’t compatible with this version” even when the app is supposed to be compatible with the device.
This annoying issue doesn’t allow you to install apps. So, it is essential that you know how to get rid of it.
Why does the “your device isn’t compatible with this version” message appear?
The device not compatible error may appear due to a number of causes. Some of the common reasons why you are seeing the “your device isn’t compatible with this version” error message are listed below:
- You are running an older Android version that the app doesn’t support.
- You lack certain hardware that the app requires.
- The device you are using does not comply with the app requirements.
- Google Play Services have incorrect log files.
- The app is not available in your location.
- Your device is not capable of running the app.
These are some of the common reasons why this error appears. However, it may also appear due to certain idiopathic causes.
How to fix: Device not compatible/your device isn’t compatible with this version
The Device not compatible error is a common Android issue. It may appear on any Android device, even on the latest ones. The problem doesn’t lie at your end but at PlayStore’s. It is very important to fix the issue as installing apps is what makes the Android user experience smooth.
If you have encountered the “your device isn’t compatible with this version” error message on the screen, the first thing you should do is restart your device. A simple restart can fix a lot of Android issues and glitches. However, if it didn’t solve the problem, you can start trying the fixes below.
Solution-1: Clear Cache & Data of Play Services
Cleaning the app cache and data of Google Play Services is a well-known fix for this issue. Follow these steps in order to learn what you have to do:
- Close the Play Store.
- Go to Settings.
- Tap on Applications.
- Tap on Apps Management.
- Find Google Play Services here, and tap on it.
- Tap on Clear Cache and Clear Data
That’s it. Now check if it solves the problem.
Solution-2: Uninstall Play Store Updates
Uninstalling the Play Store updates and restoring them to the Factory version is another working solution. Follow these steps in order to apply it:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap on Applications.
- Tap on Apps Management.
- Find Google Play Store here, and tap on it.
- Tap on the ‘Uninstall updates’ button.
- You will receive a warning message, tap on OK to proceed.
That’s it. Now see if the nagging issue is gone.
Solution-3: Install System Updates
System updates are provided to fix the existing bugs and glitches while improvising the overall performance. If you haven’t updated your device for a long time, then you may encounter this issue. Follow the steps to install system updates and fix this issue:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap on About Phone.
- Here, find and tap on Check for updates.
- If there are any updates available, install them right now.
Note: Make sure your phone is charged up to at least 40% before updating.
That’s it. Now check if updating solves the problem.
Solution-4: Use a VPN
Sometimes the app is not available on an Android device as it is restricted at a certain location. So, you can bypass the geological restrictions to download apps that are not available in your region. Follow these steps to know what you have to do:
- Close all apps.
- Install and run a good VPN app.
- Connect to the USA or UK using the VPN.
- Now launch the Play Store.
- Try installing that app now.
That’s it. Using a credible VPN app like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Speedify, or other premium VPNs that are able to unlock geo-restricted content is a must for this solution to work.
Solution-5: Use Market Helper
Market Helper is a simple tool that modifies your device’s manufacturer details to fool the Play Store into thinking you are using a newer device. However, you will need a rooted device in order to do that. If you are ready, follow these steps:
- Open a browser, and visit this link to download the Market Helper apk file.
- Once downloaded, install it.
- After installing, run it and choose the options from the list to copy any recent device from the manufacturer.
- Next, tap on the ‘Activate’ option.
- Grant the essential permissions to the app.
- Wait for the ‘Activated successfully’ message to appear.
- When it does, minimize this app.
- Now launch the Play Store.
- Try installing any app from it.
That’s it. This is a highly effective solution for the “your device isn’t compatible with this version” issue.
Final Words
The device not compatible error is a common but very frustrating issue for Android users. This is how you can fix it. However, if you are still suffering from it, you are left with three other options- use a browser to download APK files for the apps you want to install, factory reset your Android device, or buy a new device. If you need help with any of these, you can ask me.
That’s all for this post. I hope you find it helpful. Feel free to use the comment box to share your opinions about it.
