How to Use an Older Version of an Android App?

In a world of constant app updates, many seek ways to roll back to an older version of an Android app. If you’ve recently experienced a frustrating app update and wonder how to download legacy versions, this guide has the solution.

We’ll show you how to revert to previous versions, allowing you to control app versions and ensure compatibility with your device. Join us to regain the app experience you prefer.

How to Download an Old Version of an App on Android?

Follow the below steps to download the legacy version of an app on Android.

1. Uninstall the Current Version of App
2. Allow Apps from Unknown Sources on Android
3. Roll Back to an Old Version of Android App
4. Prevent Future Updates of App

Uninstall the Current Version of App

To make room for the older version of the app, you may need to uninstall the current one. Be aware that uninstalling the app may erase your data, so make sure to back up any essential information before proceeding.

Allow Apps from Unknown Sources on Android

To successfully download and install legacy versions of Android apps, you’ll need to allow apps from unknown sources on your Android device.

Follow the below steps to allow the installation of apps from unknown sources on Android.

1. Open Settings on your phone.
2. Go to “Apps,” then tap on “Special app access.” If you don’t find it, go to “Advanced” followed by “Special app access.”
3. Tap on “Install unknown apps.”
4. Tap on the app you will use to install the third-party apps. This is usually a browser or the Files app. We’re using Chrome for this example.
5. Enable the toggle next to “Allow from this source.”
6. Tap on the APK file to install it.

Roll Back to an Older Version of an Android App

Rolling back to an older version of an app isn’t always straightforward, even on Android. However, the good news is that you can manually revert to an older app version by obtaining the app’s older APK file and installing it.

This process, also known as app version management, answers your question of ‘how to install an older version of an Android app.’

Here’s the step-by-step procedure:

1. Go to APKMirror on your web browser.
2. Search for the app by clicking the search button in the top right
3. Select the appropriate app from the search result.
4. Scroll down a bit to see the current and earlier versions of the selected app.
5. Select an older version that corresponds to your needs.
6. Scroll down again and tap the DOWNLOAD APK button on the page to start downloading the APK file on your phone.
7. Once downloaded, tap to install the APK file.

When performing an APK rollback, you can regain access to the previous app version.

Preventing Future Updates of App

Preventing future updates is crucial for maintaining control over your app versions and ensuring compatibility with your device.

1. Open the Play Store
2. Tap your profile picture in the top right corner.
3. Click Settings
4. Tap Network preferences
5. Hit Auto-update apps
6. Finally, tap Don’t auto-update apps and click Done!

How to use older version of Systems apps?

Android allows the rollback of system apps on your phone.

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap Apps & Notifications
3. Select the link to See all apps
4. Find the system app you wish to downgrade on the list and tap it.
5. Now, click the 3-dot button in the top right corner.
6. Hit Uninstall updates

Android will automatically revert the app to its factory or last system update version.

Security and Compatibility Tips

To ensure a smooth experience, always check app version compatibility with your device before performing an APK rollback or installing an obsolete app version.