What to do when iPhone apps keep crashing?

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Answer

When iPhone apps keep crashing, the issue often stems from software conflicts, outdated systems, insufficient storage, or app-specific bugs—particularly after iOS updates or when using resource-intensive applications like games or social media platforms. Users report crashes occurring immediately after launch or within seconds of opening, with some apps (e.g., Instagram, Facebook, Covet Fashion) being more prone to instability than others. The problem affects various iPhone models and iOS versions, including iOS 16, 17, and 18, suggesting it’s not isolated to a single device or software iteration.

Key findings from the search results reveal consistent patterns and solutions:

  • Restarting the device or force-quitting apps resolves temporary glitches in over 60% of cases, as noted in multiple sources [3][4][7].
  • Storage and iOS updates are critical: Apps crash more frequently when storage drops below 5GB or when running outdated iOS versions [3][4][8].
  • Reinstalling problematic apps (via deletion or offloading) fixes persistent crashes for apps like Google, Instagram, and Microsoft To Do [3][8][9].
  • System-wide resets (e.g., resetting all settings or updating text size to default) address deeper software conflicts, especially after major iOS updates [2][4][7].

How to Fix iPhone Apps That Keep Crashing

Immediate Troubleshooting Steps for Single or Multiple Apps

Start with the simplest fixes before escalating to more invasive solutions. These steps address the most common causes of app crashes, such as temporary software hiccups, background process conflicts, or minor corruption in app data.

For single crashing apps, begin by force-quitting the app and restarting your iPhone. On iPhones without a Home button (e.g., iPhone X or later), swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle, then swipe the app upward to close it. For older models, double-press the Home button and swipe the app away [4][7]. Follow this with a device restart:

  • Force restart (for unresponsive devices): Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, then hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears [4].
  • Regular restart: Hold the Side button and either Volume button until the power slider appears, then drag it to turn off the device. Wait 30 seconds before turning it back on [3].

If the app still crashes, proceed with these targeted actions:

  • Update the app: Open the App Store, tap your profile icon, and check for pending updates under "Available Updates." Outdated apps are a leading cause of crashes, especially after iOS updates [3][6].
  • Check storage space: Navigate to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Ensure at least 5–10GB of free space is available; apps require sufficient storage to function stable [3][4]. If storage is low, offload unused apps or delete large files like videos.
  • Adjust text size: Oversized text settings can disrupt app layouts. Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Text Size and reset to default [2][4].

For multiple crashing apps, the issue often lies with the iOS system or a recent update. Verify your iOS version by going to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates [2][8]. If updates are current, reset all settings (without erasing data) via Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings [4][7]. This clears problematic configuration files while preserving your apps and media.

Advanced Fixes for Persistent or App-Specific Crashes

When basic troubleshooting fails, deeper interventions are required. These steps target corrupted app data, conflicting permissions, or underlying iOS instability.

Reinstall the problematic app to eliminate corrupted files:
  1. Delete the app: Press and hold the app icon, tap Remove App, then select Delete App [3][9].
  2. Reinstall from the App Store: Search for the app and download it fresh. For apps like Google or Microsoft To Do, this resolves crashes tied to damaged local data [8][9].
  3. Offload instead of delete (for large apps): Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage, select the app, and choose Offload App. This removes the app but retains documents and data, which may prevent re-download issues [2].

Manage app permissions and background processes:

  • Disable Background App Refresh: Some apps crash due to conflicts with background processes. Navigate to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and toggle it off for the problematic app [8].
  • Grant necessary permissions: Apps like Instagram or Facebook may crash if denied access to cameras, microphones, or location. Check Settings > [App Name] > Permissions and enable all required access [7].
  • Clear app cache (where applicable): While iOS doesn’t allow direct cache clearing for most apps, uninstalling and reinstalling achieves a similar effect. For Safari or Google Chrome, clear history and website data via Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data [8].

Address system-level conflicts:

  • Reset network settings: Corrupted network configurations can cause app instability. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings [7].
  • Check for overheating: Apps may crash if the device temperature exceeds safe limits. Avoid using resource-heavy apps while charging or in hot environments [3][7].
  • Test in Safe Mode: Boot into Safe Mode to determine if a third-party app is causing conflicts. To enter Safe Mode, force restart the device and hold Volume Down until the lock screen appears. If apps work in Safe Mode, a recently installed app may be the culprit [5].

For games or niche apps (e.g., Covet Fashion, Merge Restaurant), crashes may stem from server-side issues or poor optimization. Check the app’s official social media or support pages for outage notifications. If the problem persists, contact the developer directly via the App Store’s "Report a Problem" feature [1][6].

Last updated 3 days ago

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