Updating apps to the latest version is usually a good idea, as it grants access to new features and improves stability and security. However, there are instances when you might need to downgrade an app. Upgrades can sometimes come with bugs, causing crashes or compatibility issues with your device. Moreover, each update takes up valuable storage space. So, how can you easily downgrade Android apps? Let’s find out!
Downgrade an Android App (Without Losing Data)
Typically, Android doesn’t allow you to install an older version of an app over a newer one. However, there’s a trick to bypass this limitation. By using a secret flag in the system package manager, you can instruct Android to permit the installation of an older version of a program.
To downgrade an app without losing any data, follow these steps:
- Execute a command that applies the secret flag.
- Install the older version of the app on top of the newer one.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the app will be downgraded to the desired version. It’s as simple as that!
Steps to downgrade an Android app and keep the existing data
Snippet of the Powershell script to downgrade an app
Roll Back an Android App Update (With Data Restoration)
If an update causes frequent crashes or other issues, Android’s rollback capability can automatically trigger a manual rollback. By using a shell command, you can initiate a rollback and restore the previous data by installing the earlier version of the app.
Here’s how you can roll back an Android app update and restore the old data:
- Add the ‘-enable-rollback’ option to the ‘pm install’ command during the upgrade.
- Use the ‘pm rollback-app package’ command to kick off the rollback process.
Performing a rollback ensures that the backed-up data files are relocated, but be aware that any changes made to the app’s data after activating rollback will be replaced.
Teams app downgraded in an Android device
Downgrade Apps Using 3rd Party Software
Aside from the aforementioned methods, you can also use third-party software to downgrade Android apps. There are many Android and iOS downgrade applications available, which you can download and install on a compatible computer.
Simplify App Downgrades with Hexnode
Downgrading apps individually on corporate devices can be a tedious task for IT admins. That’s where Hexnode’s app management features come in handy. Hexnode offers a smart security package that meets the demands of the modern workplace. With Hexnode’s UEM solution, IT admins can easily downgrade apps on managed Android devices when facing issues with the latest updates.
The benefits of using Hexnode for app downgrades are:
- No scripting required.
- Hassle-free app management across multiple endpoints.
- A user-friendly interface that allows tasks to be completed with just a few clicks.
- Remote management configurations that eliminate the need to physically touch the device.
To simplify Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) and easily downgrade apps with Hexnode, follow their provided instructions.
How to simplify Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) with UEM
Downgrade Apps on iOS
Just like Android devices, iOS devices also offer ways to downgrade apps. Let’s explore how you can downgrade apps on iOS using iTunes or Apple Configurator.
Downgrade an App on iOS with iTunes
To downgrade apps on your iPhone or iPad using iTunes, follow these steps:
- Turn off the ‘Automatic Downloads’ option to prevent automatic app updates.
- Locate the previous version’s IPA File (iOS Package App Store) on your computer.
- Install the previous IPA using iTunes by selecting the app, choosing the version number, and syncing your device.
Downgrade Apps on iOS with Apple Configurator
To download IPA files and downgrade apps using Apple Configurator, use the following steps:
- Download and install Apple Configurator on your Mac PC.
- Log in to your Apple account using the same credentials as your iPhone or iPad.
- Connect your device to the computer and navigate to the folder containing the downloaded IPAs.
- Move the IPA to a more convenient location.
- Open iTunes, delete the existing IPA file in the folder, and locate the old IPA file to install it on your device.
Top 10 Mobile Application Management (MAM) Solutions
Conclusion
Downgrading apps on managed iOS devices is easily achievable through iTunes or Apple Configurator. For Android devices, you can employ Hexnode UEM or utilize scripts or third-party apps. There can be various reasons for needing to downgrade an app, such as bugs in the latest update, compatibility issues, or insufficient storage space.
Remember to double-check that the app version you want to install is available and compatible with your device before proceeding. Enjoy seamless app downgrades with these easy-to-follow steps for managed iPhone, iPad, and Android devices.
It’s time to take control of your app versions and ensure a smooth user experience!
