An app crashes on open usually because its stored data is corrupt, it is outdated or incompatible with your current system, or the device is low on storage or memory. A failed or partial update, a background server problem, or a permission the app needs but does not have can also cause it. Restarting the device, updating the app, and clearing its cache fixes most cases.
Why this happens
- Corrupt cache or data. Apps store temporary files. If those become damaged, the app can crash the moment it tries to load them at startup.
- Outdated app or system. An old app version may not work with a newer operating system, and an old system may not run a newer app. Version mismatches often crash on launch.
- Low storage or memory. With little free storage or RAM, the app may not have room to start and will close immediately.
- A broken install or update. If an update or install was interrupted, key files may be missing or damaged, so the app fails to open.
- Server side problems. Some apps need to reach their servers at startup. If the service is down, the app can crash or freeze on the opening screen.
- Missing permissions. An app denied a permission it expects at launch can crash instead of prompting.
Is this normal?
A rare one off crash is normal and usually clears on the next launch. An app that crashes every time you open it is not normal and needs one of the fixes below.
Does it cause any problems?
The app is unusable until fixed, and repeated crashes are frustrating, but they do not harm the device. In rare cases a crashing app tied to system functions can affect other features, which reinstalling resolves.
How to fix or check it
- Fully close the app and reopen it once, then restart the device to clear temporary glitches.
- Update the app in the App Store or Google Play, and install any pending system updates.
- Free up storage if the device is nearly full, since low space commonly causes launch crashes.
- Android: go to Settings, Apps, the app, Storage, and tap Clear cache. If it still crashes, try Clear data (note this signs you out and resets settings).
- iPhone: delete the app and reinstall it, which replaces damaged files and cache.
- Windows or Mac: quit the app, then update or reinstall it. On Windows you can repair or reset Store apps in Settings, Apps.
- Check whether the service is down by searching for a status page or by testing on another device or network.
- Confirm the app has the permissions it needs in your device settings, and that your device meets the app's minimum system requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the app crash only on my phone and not others?
Usually because of something local to your device: corrupt app data, low storage, an older system version, or a denied permission. Clearing cache or reinstalling normally fixes device specific crashes.
Will reinstalling delete my data?
For most apps, data tied to your account is stored online and returns when you sign in again. Data saved only on the device, such as some offline files, can be lost, so back up first when possible.
What if the app crashes right after an update?
The update may have a bug or installed incompletely. Reinstall it, restart the device, and if it continues, check for a newer fix update or report it to the developer, since a server side fix may follow.