Android Error Code 505 is one of those problems that shows up without warning, usually when you try to install or update an app from the Google Play Store. The message typically says something like “App not installed” or “Unknown error code 505”, which is Android’s way of being unhelpful.
The good news is that this error is almost always software-related and fixable without drastic measures.
What Causes Android Error Code 505?
Error 505 usually occurs due to a conflict between application packages or corrupted Play Store components. Common causes include:
- App signature conflicts (often after updates)
- Corrupted Google Play Store cache or data
- Issues with Google Play Services
- Partially installed or leftover app files
- Conflicting permissions between apps using the same package name
This error became more common after Android 5.0 (Lollipop), but it still appears on newer versions.
Solution 1: Clear Google Play Store Cache and Data
This is the fastest and most effective fix in most cases.
- Open Settings
- Go to Apps or Applications
- Find Google Play Store
- Tap Storage
- Select Clear Cache and Clear Data
Restart your device and try installing the app again.
Solution 2: Clear Google Play Services Cache
Play Services often causes hidden conflicts.
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Open Google Play Services
- Tap Storage
- Choose Clear Cache
Do not disable Play Services. Just clear the cache and restart.
Solution 3: Uninstall Updates for Google Play Store
If the Play Store itself is broken, rolling it back helps.
- Open Settings → Apps → Google Play Store
- Tap the three-dot menu (top right)
- Select Uninstall updates
After uninstalling updates, restart your phone and open the Play Store. It will update itself automatically.
Solution 4: Remove and Reinstall the Problematic App
If Error 505 appears for a specific app:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Find the app causing the issue
- Tap Uninstall
- Restart the device
- Reinstall the app from Google Play Store
If the app cannot be removed, clear its cache and data first, then try again.
Solution 5: Check for Conflicting Apps
Some apps share similar package names or permissions and conflict with each other.
- Uninstall recently installed apps
- Especially check apps from the same developer
- Restart after each uninstall and test again
This is common with banking, VPN, or enterprise apps.
Solution 6: Update Android System
Outdated system components can trigger Play Store errors.
- Open Settings → System → Software Update
- Install any available updates
After updating, reboot and retry the installation.
Solution 7: Install the App Manually (Advanced)
If Play Store keeps failing:
- Download the app APK from a trusted source
- Enable Install unknown apps in Settings
- Install the APK manually
⚠️ Only use reputable APK providers to avoid malware.
Solution 8: Factory Reset (Last Resort)
If nothing works and multiple apps fail to install:
- Back up your data
- Go to Settings → System → Reset options
- Perform a Factory data reset
This removes deep system conflicts but should be used only as a last option.
Conclusion
Android Error Code 505 is annoying but rarely serious. In most cases, clearing Google Play Store and Play Services cache resolves the issue within minutes. App conflicts are the second most common cause.
If the error persists across multiple apps, the problem is likely tied to system updates or corrupted services rather than the app itself.