How to go back to a previous version of an application on Android, is a recurring question. Depending on the type of mobile phone we use, new versions may work slower. If you are interested in knowing how to take a step back with updates, then this note is for you.
It may seem crazy to go back to a previous version, especially when it is supposed to have been improved. The truth is, to many people it is difficult for him to get used to the new or even fear failures from updates. If you are one of those people, don't worry, we have solutions for you.
Although the operating system don't let you choose exactly which version to use, you will learn how to go back to a previous version of an app on Android. I recommend you stay until the end.
Why can't I go directly back to a previous version?
Although it is somewhat difficult to ask, we can ask ourselves at some point the reason for the previous question. The truth, there are various reasons, which I will show you below. You will surely understand the reasons, but still, you will want to know how to go back to a previous version of an application on Android.
- Standardization in operation: Imagine that you develop an app and it is downloaded all over the world, but in each version, there are users who do not want to update it. Providing support would be a real headache, in addition to losing some functions that, when interacted, could generate major failures.
- Security enhancements: Privacy and security are very significant elements that improve as the days go by. Regular updates make it possible to improve these aspects.
- Bug fixes: No matter how many tests we perform, a bug will always appear in our code. Many times these appear in particular conditions and mobile models. All improvements and bug fixes are implemented in the updates.
- Compatibility with new equipment: As time goes by, new mobile devices come onto the market, with particular functions and modern operating systems. If updates did not exist, we would not be able to exploit the potential of a new model.
- Increase in functionality: It is natural that new elements bring with them more practical, precise or even functional functions. Updating an app brings improvements and new features.
- Advertising: Many apps are maintained thanks to sponsorship and advertising. By updating, we ensure that the current banner and videos that feed the development team run.
Step by step: how to go back to a previous version of an application on Android
More than basic configurations, it is necessary to do some little tricks if we want to keep a previous version of an application on our Android mobile. The methods can vary greatly, but don't worry, here I show you the particular cases so you know how to proceed safely.
Roll back to a previous version of pre-installed apps
All Android phones come with a series of pre-installed applications. These, once we start using the mobile, have to be updated for the version that is in progress. The idea of this is to keep the tools up to date.
There is a way to have the version installed initially, which was updated when using the mobile. Here is the step by step:
- The first step is to uninstall the app. It cannot be completely uninstalled, at least without rooting the operating system. There are several ways to uninstall it, I will go with the simplest.
- Open the configuration menu of your mobile, then go to the section “Applications".
- Subsequently, click on “Manage applications".
- Find the pre-installed application that you want to keep in its initial version. Click on this.
- In the bottom bar, press “uninstall".
When you finish, wait a few seconds, the same will appear again on your mobile. At this point, you will need to enter the Google Play Store, search for the application and deactivate the update option.
Enter the app and verify that an older version is active. You must keep in mind that many times, when the version is very old, you will not be able to use it due to compatibility issues. In this case, there is no other way but to update it.
Roll back to a previous version of third-party apps
We come to the part where I explain how to go back to previous versions in third-party apps. This method It is quite practical and allows you to install the version you want, as long as you know its number.
Before we jump into this, it is important that Keep in mind that this can be dangerous.. The truth is, in addition to downloading from unofficial websites, we are also not sure that the code has not been modified and may present a danger to our privacy.
If you still want to continue, I explain what we will do, all step by step. Remember that you do this at your own risk.
- Uninstall the app you want to roll back to a previous version. It is important that you take note of the version you are uninstalling, this will help you avoid downloading the same one.
- Go to a website to download APK. I recommend using Aptoide.
- Search for the application to download, to do so, use the bar in the upper corner of the screen.
- When you are in the app section, you will find a tab called versions. Click and then choose the version of your interest.
- Click on the button "Download”. Wait a few seconds until the process is complete.
- Install the downloaded APK.
In case it does not allow you to install, you must follow the steps requested by the system to allow the procedure. It is important to make it clear that you trust the website where you obtained the file from.
Once installed, go to the Google Play Store and Configure that you do not want that app to be able to update. If you don't, depending on your settings, it will automatically update to the latest version.
I hope I have helped you on this journey to learn how to revert to a previous version of an app on Android. As you can see, the process it is not complex at allHowever, it is necessary to be attentive to all the elements. I hope we can read each other in the next opportunity.