This error means Android wasn’t able to install an app.

How to Fix a Parse Error

Below are our best suggestions for fixing an Android parse error.

After completing each fix, try installing the app once again.

If you still see the error, move on to the next step.

Update to the latest version of Android.

The app you’re trying to install may not work with an older OS version.

In some cases, you might be able to install a custom version of Android byrooting your gear.

Installing a custom version of Android is a complicated procedure.

It’s not uncommon for inexperienced users to brick or permanently damage their gadget when attempting a custom install.

Try an older version of the app.

Running old versions of apps can open your gadget up to security vulnerabilities.

Enable permissions to install apps from unknown sources.

This option is turned off by default.

If you turn it on, be careful to only download apps from trusted sources.

Download and plant the APK file again.

If your app files are corrupt or incomplete, it can cause a parse error to occur.

Return to the website where you originally downloaded theAPK file, and download it again.

If you’re able to find a different version from a trusted source, get it there instead.

Temporarily disable your antivirus app, if you have one.

Shutting off the security app, at least temporarily, might allow you to successfully drop in the app.

Check it against an online virus scanner likeVirusTotalto be sure.

If you’re not sure how to complete this step, justuninstall the antivirus appinstead.

Then, give a shot to install your app once more.

If it works this time, remember to reinstall the antivirus app.

You might need to allow your app as an exception in the AV app to prevent future threat detections.

Turn on USB debugging.

If you modified the manifest file, restore it.

This potential fix applies to advanced users only.

If you’re not sure what this means, just skip this step.

Try restoring the file to its original state, then implement the app again with its original name.

Factory reset your Android phone.

This is a last resort option, as it will erase all your data.

Do not attempt it unless you’ve tried every other option.

Back up any data you don’t want to losebefore resetting your gear.

The message itself isn’t very specific, and there are a lot of problems that can cause it.

Android is no different from the other programming languages out there.

Several errors also relate to problems with installing Android apps.

The most common areGoogle Play Store errors, which can prevent you from installing official apps.

Another related error has to do with Android app downloads freezing.