The “android.process.acore has stopped” error is a common issue for Android users. It causes interruptions while accessing contacts, messaging apps, or other functionalities.
This error can be frustrating but often fixable with some troubleshooting.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes of this error and provide effective methods to resolve it.
Understanding the Issue – Why Does the Error Occur?
The “android.process.acore has stopped” error usually arises due to:
Corrupted Data: Corrupted cache or data in the contacts or messaging apps.
Outdated Apps or Software: Running outdated versions of Android or apps can cause compatibility issues.
Conflicting Apps: Third-party apps interfering with the system’s contacts or sync functionality.
Google Account Sync Errors: Problems with syncing contacts or data with Google accounts.
System Glitches: Bugs in the Android operating system, especially in older versions.
Step-by-Step Methods to Fix the “android.process.acore Has Stopped” Error
Method 1: Clear Cache and Data for Contacts
Corrupted data in the Contacts app is one of the primary reasons for this error. Clearing the cache and data can often resolve the issue.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Apps & Notifications > See All Apps.
- Scroll down and find Contacts.
- Tap Storage & Cache.
- Select Clear Cache and then Clear Data.
- Repeat the process for Contacts Storage.
- Restart your device.
Note: Back up your contacts before performing this step to avoid data loss.
Method 2: Reset App Preferences
Resetting app preferences restores default settings for all apps, which can resolve conflicts causing the error.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Apps & Notifications > See All Apps.
- Tap the three dots in the upper-right corner and select Reset App Preferences.
- Confirm by tapping Reset Apps.
This will not delete any data but will re-enable disabled apps and reset notifications and permissions.
Method 3: Remove and Re-Add Google Accounts
Sync errors with Google accounts can lead to this issue. Removing and re-adding your Google account often fixes it.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Accounts.
- Select your Google account and tap Remove Account.
- Restart your device.
- Go back to Settings > Accounts and tap Add Account.
Log back into your Google account and allow it to sync.
Method 4: Update Your Apps and Software
Outdated apps or Android versions may cause compatibility issues, leading to the error.
Steps to Update Apps:
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Tap your profile icon and select Manage Apps & Device.
- Tap Update All to update all apps.
Steps to Update Android Software:
- Go to Settings > System > System Update.
- Tap Check for Updates.
- If an update is available, download and install it.
Method 5: Disable and Reinstall Problematic Apps
Sometimes, third-party apps like Facebook Messenger or Google+ may conflict with the system. Disabling or reinstalling these apps can help.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Apps & Notifications > See All Apps.
- Find the problematic app (e.g., Messenger) and tap it.
- Tap Disable or Uninstall.
- Restart your device.
- Reinstall or re-enable the app from the Google Play Store.
Method 6: Perform a Factory Reset
If none of the above methods work, performing a factory reset can resolve deeper system issues.
Steps:
- Back up your data to an external SD card, cloud service, or PC.
- Go to Settings > System > Reset Options.
- Select Erase All Data (Factory Reset).
- Confirm the action and wait for the process to complete.
Warning: Factory reset erases all data on your device, so ensure you have a backup before proceeding.
Additional Solutions to Try
Check for Disabled System Apps
Sometimes, disabling essential system apps by mistake can cause this error.
- Go to Settings > Apps & Notifications > See All Apps.
- Look for system apps related to contacts or messaging and ensure they are enabled.
- Clear Data for Google Play Services
Google Play Services is integral to many system functions. Clearing its data can resolve sync issues.
- Go to Settings > Apps & Notifications > See All Apps.
- Select Google Play Services.
- Tap Storage & Cache, then Clear Cache and Clear Data.
- Install a Third-Party Contacts App
If the issue persists, consider using a third-party contacts app like Truecaller or Contacts+. These apps bypass some system-level glitches.
Root Your Device (Advanced Users)
For older devices running Android 5.0 or earlier, rooting your device and installing custom firmware like TWRP can fix persistent issues.
However, this is a complex process and should only be attempted by experienced users.
FAQs
What causes the “android.process.acore has stopped” error?
This error is commonly caused by corrupted contact data, sync issues with Google accounts, outdated apps, or system glitches in Android.
Will clearing contacts data delete my contacts?
Yes, clearing contacts data will delete all locally stored contacts. Ensure you back up your contacts to Google or an external storage before performing this step.
Can I fix this error without factory resetting my device?
Yes, in most cases, clearing cache, resetting app preferences, or updating apps resolves the error without needing a factory reset.
Why does this error occur on older Android versions?
Older Android versions (before 5.1.1) have system bugs and limitations in handling app permissions, leading to this error. Upgrading the OS or flashing custom firmware can resolve it.
Does this error affect other apps besides Contacts?
Yes, this error can also impact apps like messaging, Google Play Services, or any app that relies on contacts or sync functionality.
How do I back up my data before a factory reset?
You can back up your data using:
- Google Drive for photos, contacts, and settings.
- An SD card or external storage for media files.
- PC backup tools like Samsung Smart Switch or Xiaomi Backup (depending on your device).
Can third-party apps cause this error?
Yes, poorly designed third-party apps can interfere with system processes, leading to this error. Identifying and uninstalling such apps often resolves the issue.
Is rooting necessary to fix this error?
Rooting is only necessary for advanced fixes, such as flashing custom ROMs on older devices. It is not required for most users.
Can software updates fix this error?
Yes, updating your Android OS and apps often resolves compatibility and system bugs, reducing the likelihood of this error.
How do I prevent this error in the future?
To prevent this error:
- Regularly update your apps and software.
- Avoid disabling essential system apps.
- Use reliable third-party apps.
- Back up your contacts and data periodically.
Can a corrupted SD card cause this error?
Yes, if your contacts or apps are stored on a corrupted SD card, the system may have trouble accessing the data, resulting in this error. Remove the SD card, restart your device, and check if the issue persists.
How do I identify which app is causing the error?
The error message often appears while using a specific app. If the issue occurs repeatedly with one app, it’s likely the culprit. Try uninstalling and reinstalling that app to see if it resolves the issue.
What should I do if the error occurs immediately after a software update?
After an update, some apps may become incompatible with the new system. Clear the cache for system apps (like Contacts and Google Play Services), and ensure all apps are updated to the latest versions.
Does disabling Facebook or Messenger sync help?
Yes, disabling Facebook or Messenger sync has been reported to resolve this error in some cases. You can disable syncing for these apps in Settings > Accounts > Facebook/Messenger.
Can the error be caused by duplicate contacts?
Yes, duplicate contacts or corrupted contact entries can cause this error. Use a contacts management app to merge or clean up duplicate entries.
Why does this error occur after restoring a backup?
If the backup contains corrupted data or incompatible app versions, it might trigger this error. Ensure your backup is from a reliable source and compatible with your current Android version.
Will a third-party dialer app fix this issue?
Using a third-party dialer app like Truecaller or Drupe can bypass issues with the default Contacts or Phone app, potentially resolving the error temporarily.
Is it safe to clear Google Play Services data?
Yes, clearing Google Play Services data is safe and often resolves issues related to syncing or app functionality. However, you may need to reconfigure certain settings afterward.
Can malware cause the “android.process.acore has stopped” error?
Yes, malware or malicious apps can interfere with system processes, including the Contacts app. Run a security scan using a trusted antivirus app like Malwarebytes or Avast Mobile Security.
Does disabling auto-sync help resolve this error?
Yes, disabling auto-sync temporarily can help isolate the problem. Go to Settings > Accounts > Auto-sync and turn it off. If the error stops, enable sync selectively for specific accounts.
Can a custom ROM cause this error?
Custom ROMs, especially unstable or poorly supported ones, can trigger this error. If you’re using a custom ROM, consider switching to a more stable version or reverting to the stock firmware.
Why does the error persist even after clearing data?
If the error persists, it might be due to:
- A deeper system-level issue.
- Corrupted system files.
- An app conflict that hasn’t been resolved.
- In such cases, consider performing a factory reset or flashing the firmware.
Can outdated Google Play Services cause this error?
Yes, outdated Google Play Services can conflict with system apps like Contacts, causing this error. Update Google Play Services from the Play Store or manually install the latest APK.
How do I know if the Contacts database is corrupted?
If clearing the cache and data for Contacts doesn’t fix the issue, or if the app crashes when opened, it’s likely that the Contacts database is corrupted. Export your contacts to a CSV file, clear Contacts data, and re-import the cleaned contacts.
Does using third-party contact sync apps help?
Yes, apps like Contacts+ or Sync.Me can manage your contacts independently of the default Contacts app, potentially bypassing system conflicts.
Why does this error occur on older Android devices?
Older devices may lack resources or updates to handle modern apps and permissions effectively, making them more prone to this error. Upgrading the OS (if possible) or switching to a lighter custom ROM can help.
Can duplicate Google accounts cause this issue?
Yes, having multiple Google accounts with overlapping contacts can lead to conflicts. Remove duplicate accounts and sync only one account at a time.
Is it necessary to back up my data before troubleshooting?
Yes, always back up your data before performing any actions like clearing data, resetting apps, or factory resetting your device. Use cloud services or external storage for backup.
Can installing a contacts backup app help prevent this issue?
Yes, apps like Super Backup or My Contacts Backup allow you to back up and restore your contacts easily, reducing the risk of data loss during troubleshooting.
How do I prevent this error from recurring?
To prevent the error:
- Regularly update your apps and Android OS.
- Avoid installing unreliable or unnecessary third-party apps.
- Keep your contacts organized and avoid duplicate entries.
- Back up your data frequently.
Can a corrupted firmware update cause this error?
Yes, a corrupted or incomplete firmware update can lead to this error. Re-flash the firmware using tools like Odin (for Samsung) or SP Flash Tool (for MediaTek devices).
Can using Lite versions of apps reduce this error?
Yes, Lite versions of apps like Facebook Lite or Messenger Lite consume fewer resources and are less likely to interfere with system processes, reducing the chances of this error.
Why does the error occur after installing a specific app?
Certain apps may conflict with system permissions or processes, especially if they request access to contacts or syncing. Uninstall the problematic app and check if the error persists.
Is there a diagnostic tool to identify the issue?
Yes, apps like Phone Doctor Plus or System Info for Android can help diagnose system-level issues, providing insights into what might be causing the error.
Can switching to a third-party launcher fix this issue?
Switching to a third-party launcher like Nova Launcher or Apex Launcher won’t directly fix the error but can improve system stability by bypassing conflicts in the default launcher.
Is there a way to export contacts before troubleshooting?
Yes, export your contacts to a file:
- Open the Contacts app.
- Tap the menu (⋮) and select Export.
- Save the file to your SD card or Google Drive.
Is it worth upgrading my phone to avoid this error?
If your device is outdated and no longer receives updates, upgrading to a newer model with modern software and hardware can help avoid such errors in the future.
How does a factory reset fix this error?
A factory reset restores the device to its original settings, removing corrupted data, conflicting apps, and other issues that may cause the error.
What should I do if the error persists after a factory reset?
If the error continues, it could indicate a hardware issue or deeply corrupted system files. Consider flashing the firmware or contacting the device manufacturer for assistance.
Can rooting my device fix this error?
Rooting can give you more control over your device, allowing you to manually delete corrupted files or install custom ROMs. However, it requires advanced knowledge and may void your warranty.
Remember to back up your data before attempting major changes, and always keep your device updated to minimize future errors.
Conclusion
The “android.process.acore has stopped” error is a common but solvable issue on Android devices.
By following the methods outlined in this guide—such as clearing cache, resetting app preferences, or updating software—you can resolve the problem and restore your device to normal functionality.
For persistent issues, a factory reset or advanced fixes like rooting may be necessary.
