com.android.phone keeps stopping
In the realm of Android smartphones, one frequent problem users encounter is that the ‘com.android.phone’ process often unexpectedly stops. This hiccup may seem benign, but when you’re in the middle of an important call or trying to access your call logs, it becomes frustratingly problematic. Here, we’ll delve into the root causes of this problem and the possible solutions to fix it.
What Triggers ‘com.android.phone Has Stopped’ Error?
The ‘com.android.phone has stopped’ error could be triggered by various factors.
- Corrupt Phone App Data: For instance, if your Phone application data is corrupt, this can cause the app to continually stop. Moreover, third-party applications that have access to your phone app could also cause conflicts, leading to the persistent ‘com.android.phone has stopped’ error message.
- Android Software Updates: Another trigger might be software updates. In some cases, the system update may not go as smoothly as planned. It might cause problems with the Phone application, leading to this error message.
- Outdated Phone Application: Lastly, having an outdated Phone application can lead to this problem as well. If the Phone application hasn’t been updated for quite some time, it might lack the necessary features or patches to run smoothly.
How to fix com.android.phone keeps stopping
Fear not, dear reader. There are several steps you can take to fix this issue. These solutions are generally user-friendly, so you don’t need to be an Android expert to follow them.
Fix 1: Clear Cache and Data of Phone App
Many times, the problem of ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ can be resolved by simply clearing the cache and data of the Phone app. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to do this:
- Step 1: Open the ‘Settings’ application on your Android device. This is typically represented by a gear icon and can be located either in your apps drawer or on one of your home screens.
- Step 2: In the Settings menu, find and tap on ‘Apps’ or ‘Application Manager’. The exact wording can vary based on the model of your Android device.
- Step 3: In the list of applications, scroll down until you find the ‘Phone’ app. Click on it.
- Step 4: Inside the Phone app settings, you’ll see a sub-menu titled ‘Storage’. Tap on this option.
- Step 5: Inside the ‘Storage’ section, you’ll see two options – ‘Clear Cache’ and ‘Clear Data’. First, tap on ‘Clear Cache’. This action will delete temporary files that are no longer needed.
- Step 6: After clearing the cache, tap on ‘Clear Data’. A warning will appear, notifying you that all app data will be permanently deleted. This includes all files, settings, accounts, and databases. Confirm your choice.
Remember, clearing the data will reset the app to its factory settings. You might have to set up your preferences again. But in many cases, this process will fix the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error, as it removes any corrupt files that might have been causing the app to malfunction.
Once you’ve done this, restart your phone and check if the problem persists. If it does, you might need to consider the other fixes mentioned above.
Fix 2: Update Your Phone Application
Another potential solution to the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error is updating your Phone application. Updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can resolve issues you’re experiencing. Here are the detailed steps to update your Phone application:
- Step 1: Open the ‘Google Play Store’ on your Android device. This is usually located either in your apps drawer or on one of your home screens.
- Step 2: Once inside the Play Store, tap on the ‘three horizontal lines’ icon, located at the top-left corner of the screen. This will open the side navigation menu.
- Step 3: In the side navigation menu, tap on ‘My apps & games’.
- Step 4: Here, you’ll see a list of apps installed on your device that have available updates. Look for the ‘Phone’ app in this list. If it’s listed here, that means an update is available.
- Step 5: If an update for the Phone app is available, tap on the ‘Update’ button next to it. The Play Store will then download and install the update.
Remember, it’s crucial to have a stable internet connection while updating apps to prevent any issues during the update process.
Once the update is installed, restart your device. This will ensure the changes take effect properly. Now check if the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error still appears. If it does, you might need to consider more drastic measures, such as performing a factory reset, as a last resort.
Fix 3: Perform a System Update
A system update can often resolve many issues on your Android device, including the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error. These updates not only bring new features but also fix bugs that might be causing problems. Here’s how you can perform a system update:
- Step 1: Open the ‘Settings’ application on your device. This is generally represented by a gear icon and can be found either in your apps drawer or on one of your home screens.
- Step 2: In the ‘Settings’ menu, scroll down until you find ‘Software Update’ or ‘System Update’. The exact wording can vary based on your Android device model. Tap on this option.
- Step 3: Once inside the ‘Software Update’ or ‘System Update’ menu, you should see an option to ‘Download and Install’ if there is an update available.
- Step 4: If an update is available, tap on ‘Download and Install’. Your device will then download the update and restart to complete the installation process.
Remember, it’s important to ensure that your device is connected to a reliable internet connection during this process. Also, make sure your device has enough battery or is connected to a power source.
Once the system update is complete, your device should restart. Check to see if the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error has been resolved. If the problem still persists, consider exploring other solutions such as performing a factory reset as a final resort.
Fix 4: Factory Reset Your Device
When other solutions fail, a factory reset can be your last resort. Remember, this action will erase everything on your device, including your personal data, settings, and installed apps. So it’s vital to backup any essential data before proceeding. Here’s how to perform a factory reset:
- Step 1: Open the ‘Settings’ application on your Android device. This is usually represented by a gear icon and can be found in your apps drawer or on one of your home screens.
- Step 2: In the ‘Settings’ menu, scroll down to find ‘System’. Tap on this option.
- Step 3: Inside ‘System’, locate and tap on ‘Reset’.
- Step 4: Here, you will find an option saying ‘Factory data reset’. Tap on it.
- Step 5: You’ll see a warning screen explaining what a factory reset does. If you’ve already backed up your data and are ready to proceed, tap on ‘Reset Phone’.
- Step 6: You may need to enter your PIN, pattern, or password for security purposes. After that, your device will begin the factory reset process.
Once the factory reset process is complete, your device will restart, and it will be as it was when you first bought it. Set it up as per your preferences and check if the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error is still showing up.
A factory reset can often resolve the most persistent problems since it brings your device back to its original software state. However, it should be considered a last resort due to the loss of data it entails.
Fix 5: Boot into Safe Mode
Sometimes, the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error can be caused by third-party apps that interfere with the phone application. Booting your device into Safe Mode can help identify if this is the case. In Safe Mode, all third-party apps are disabled, allowing you to see if they are the source of the problem.
Here’s how to boot your Android device into Safe Mode:
- Step 1: Press and hold the power button on your device. You’ll see the ‘Power off’ option.
- Step 2: Press and hold the ‘Power off’ option. A new window will appear asking if you want to ‘Reboot to safe mode’.
- Step 3: Tap on ‘OK’. Your device will then restart and enter Safe Mode.
Once your device is in Safe Mode, the words ‘Safe Mode’ should appear at the bottom of your screen. Now, try to use your phone application and see if the problem still occurs. If the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error does not appear in Safe Mode, a third-party app is likely causing the problem.
In such a case, try uninstalling recently installed apps one by one until the problem is resolved. Remember, after each uninstallation, restart your device and check if the error persists. To exit Safe Mode, simply restart your device as you usually would. Your phone will then boot up normally, with all third-party apps active again.
Safe Mode is an effective way to diagnose issues with your device, as it allows you to isolate the problem. However, it’s important to be cautious when uninstalling apps to avoid accidentally removing apps that may contain important data.
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Fix 6: Clear Cache Partition
Clearing the system cache or the cache partition can also help resolve the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error. The cache partition stores temporary system data and helps the system access apps more quickly. But over time, it can become overloaded or contain outdated information, causing issues. Here are the steps to clear the cache partition:
- Step 1: First, turn off your device. The method to do this may vary based on your device model.
- Step 2: Once the device is off, press and hold the ‘Volume Up’ button and the ‘Power’ button at the same time. Keep holding them until the device logo appears. This will bring you into the Recovery Mode menu.
- Step 3: Use the volume buttons to navigate the Recovery Mode menu and the power button to make a selection. Scroll down using the ‘Volume Down’ button to highlight the ‘Wipe Cache Partition’ option.
- Step 4: Press the ‘Power’ button to select the ‘Wipe Cache Partition’ option. Confirm your selection if prompted.
- Step 5: Once the process is complete, ‘Reboot System Now’ will be highlighted. Press the ‘Power’ button to confirm and restart your device.
Clearing the cache partition does not delete any personal data or settings, making it a safe troubleshooting step. Once your device restarts, check if the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error still persists. If it does, consider trying the other solutions mentioned above.
Remember, the exact buttons to press to access Recovery Mode can vary depending on your device model. If the steps above do not work, you may need to look up specific instructions for your device.
Fix 7: Disable Automatic Updates for Phone App
Disabling automatic updates for your Phone app could also fix the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error. Sometimes, updates may not install properly, causing issues with the app. By disabling automatic updates, you can control when and how updates are installed. Here’s how you can disable automatic updates:
- Step 1: Open the ‘Google Play Store’ on your Android device. This is usually located either in your apps drawer or on one of your home screens.
- Step 2: Once inside the Play Store, tap on the ‘three horizontal lines’ icon located at the top-left corner of the screen. This will open the side navigation menu.
- Step 3: In the side navigation menu, tap on ‘My apps & games’.
- Step 4: Here, you’ll see a list of apps installed on your device. Look for the ‘Phone’ app in this list and tap on it.
- Step 5: Once you’re on the app’s page, tap on the ‘three vertical dots’ icon at the top-right corner of the screen.
- Step 6: A small drop-down menu will appear. Here, you will find the option ‘Enable auto update’. If it’s checked, tap on it to uncheck and disable automatic updates for the Phone app.
Once you’ve disabled automatic updates, you can manually check for updates when you want and install them at your convenience. Remember to regularly check for updates, as they often include important fixes and improvements. After disabling automatic updates, check if the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error still appears. If it does, consider trying the other solutions mentioned above.
Fix 8: Uninstall and Reinstall Phone App Updates
In some cases, uninstalling and then reinstalling updates for the Phone app can resolve the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error. This step essentially refreshes the app and removes any potentially corrupted files from the recent updates. Here’s how you can do it:
- Step 1: Open the ‘Settings’ application on your Android device. This is usually represented by a gear icon and can be found either in your apps drawer or on one of your home screens.
- Step 2: In the Settings menu, find and tap on ‘Apps’ or ‘Application Manager’. The exact wording can vary based on the model of your Android device.
- Step 3: In the list of applications, scroll down until you find the ‘Phone’ app. Click on it.
- Step 4: Inside the Phone app settings, you’ll see an option to ‘Uninstall Updates’. Tap on this option.
Your device will uninstall the recent updates for the Phone app and restore it to the factory version. After this, you can go to the Google Play Store and install the updates for the Phone app again.
After you have reinstalled the updates, restart your device and check if the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error still appears. If it does, you may need to try one of the other solutions mentioned in this article. Remember, each Android device is unique, and what works for one device may not work for another.
Fix 9: Check for SIM Card Issues
At times, SIM card problems can cause the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error. This is because the Phone app directly interacts with your SIM card to make calls. Therefore, any issues with the SIM card can cause the Phone app to malfunction. Here’s how you can check for SIM card problems:
- Step 1: Power off your device.
- Step 2: Locate the SIM card slot on your device. On most Android devices, it’s located on the side or top. You may need a SIM card ejector tool or a paperclip to open the SIM card tray.
- Step 3: Carefully remove the SIM card from the slot. Inspect it for any visible damage. If the SIM card appears damaged, you may need to replace it.
- Step 4: If there’s no visible damage, clean the gold contacts of the SIM card gently with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Step 5: Reinsert the SIM card back into the slot and ensure that it is properly seated.
- Step 6: Power your device back on and check to see if the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error persists.
If the error still occurs, try your SIM card in a different device. If the problem follows the SIM card, it is likely faulty and needs replacement. The error does not occur in the other device, the problem likely lies with your device. In that case, continue troubleshooting using the other fixes in this article.
Fix 10: Contact Customer Support
If all else fails and the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error still persists, it may be time to seek professional help. You can contact your device’s manufacturer or your mobile service provider’s customer support for further assistance.
Remember, every Android device is different, and what works for one device may not work for another. Customer support representatives are often equipped with extensive knowledge about their devices and may provide solutions that are specifically tailored to your device model.
- Step 1: Look for the customer support number for your device’s manufacturer or your mobile service provider. This can usually be found on their official website.
- Step 2: Call the customer support number and explain the issue you’re facing. Be sure to mention the error message ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ and any other symptoms you’ve noticed. Also, tell them about the troubleshooting steps you’ve already taken.
- Step 3: Follow their guidance. They may ask you to perform additional troubleshooting steps under their supervision or suggest that you bring your device in for service.
Getting professional help can be beneficial, especially when dealing with persistent issues like the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error. Remember, your device may still be under warranty, and any repair or replacement required might be covered by it.
Fix 11: Use an Alternative Dialer App
While this isn’t necessarily a solution to fixing the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error, it can be a suitable workaround if none of the fixes mentioned above work for you. There are many third-party dialer apps available on the Google Play Store that you can use as an alternative to your built-in Phone app.
- Step 1: Open the ‘Google Play Store’ on your Android device.
- Step 2: In the search bar, type ‘dialer’ and hit enter. You’ll see a list of available dialer apps.
- Step 3: Choose a dialer app with high ratings and good reviews. Some popular choices include ‘Truecaller’ and ‘Drupe,’ but feel free to choose one that best suits your needs.
- Step 4: Install the dialer app by tapping on ‘Install’.
- Step 5: Once installed, open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
Remember, using a third-party dialer app means you’ll need to grant it certain permissions, including access to your contacts and call logs. Always read the permissions carefully and ensure you trust the app before granting these permissions.
Switching to an alternative dialer app can help you make and receive calls without encountering the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error. However, it’s still a good idea to try and resolve the issue with your built-in Phone app, as outlined in the other fixes above.
Preventing ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ Error
Prevention is always better than cure. While it’s great to know how to fix the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error, it’s even better to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here are some preventive measures you can take:
- Regular Updates: Regularly updating your device’s software and applications is one of the best ways to prevent this issue. Updates usually include bug fixes and improvements that can prevent such errors from occurring.
- Uninstall Unnecessary Apps: Too many applications on your device can sometimes cause conflicts and lead to such errors. Uninstall any apps that you no longer use or need.
- Regular Reboots: Regularly rebooting your device can help keep it running smoothly. It closes any background apps that may be causing conflicts and frees up system resources.
- Avoid Downloading from Untrusted Sources: Always download apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store. Apps from untrusted sources can contain malware that could cause problems on your device.
- Regular Backups: While this doesn’t prevent the issue, having regular backups of your data ensures you don’t lose anything if you need to perform actions like a factory reset to resolve the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error.
- Be Careful with System Modifications: If you’re a fan of modding or rooting your Android device, be aware that these modifications can sometimes lead to problems. Only make modifications if you’re confident you understand the risks and potential consequences.
By following these tips, you can help prevent the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error and keep your device running smoothly.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error is undoubtedly a frustrating one. Fortunately, the various fixes shared in this article can help you tackle this issue head-on. Remember, not every solution will work for all devices, so it’s crucial to try different methods until you find the one that solves your problem.On a brighter note, now that you’re armed with multiple solutions, future occurrences of the error should be less daunting.
More so, the preventative measures mentioned provide you with a first-line defense, reducing the chances of encountering this error in the future.Lastly, don’t forget that getting professional help is always an option if the problem persists. Remember, your device is an important part of your daily life, so it’s essential to keep it running smoothly.As always, feel free to refer back to this comprehensive guide whenever you face the ‘com.android.phone keeps stopping’ error. Good luck, and happy troubleshooting!
FAQs
It means your Phone app is repeatedly crashing, disrupting your ability to make or receive calls.
Various factors like outdated software, app conflicts, cache problems, or even SIM card issues can cause this error.
Yes, you can. This article has shared several solutions that you can try at home.
No, clearing the cache partition won’t erase your personal data, only temporary system data.
No, Safe Mode disables third-party apps temporarily for troubleshooting, but doesn’t uninstall them.
Not necessarily. Many fixes can be done at home. But if they fail, consider seeking professional help.
Yes, as long as it’s from a trusted source like the Google Play Store and has positive reviews.
Yes, regular updates, uninstalling unnecessary apps, and avoiding downloads from untrusted sources can prevent the error.