How to Fix Apps That Keep Crashing on Your Smart TV

Posted : 27th Jan 2025

Having your favorite apps crash repeatedly on your Smart TV can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of binge-watching a show or playing a game. Apps freezing or crashing can happen for various reasons, but the good news is that there are several ways to fix the issue. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you troubleshoot and resolve the problem of crashing apps on your Smart TV.

Common Reasons for App Crashing on Smart TVs

Outdated App or TV Software
Just like any other software, apps on your Smart TV require updates. If your apps or TV firmware are outdated, they may not function properly and crash frequently.
Corrupted Cache or Data
Apps store data and cache to help them run smoothly. Over time, this data can become corrupted, causing apps to crash or behave erratically.
Insufficient Memory or Storage
Smart TVs, especially older models, may not have enough internal storage to run apps smoothly, leading to crashes.
Poor Internet Connection
Some apps, especially streaming apps, require a stable and fast internet connection. A weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection can cause apps to crash or buffer constantly.
App Bugs or Compatibility Issues
Some apps may have bugs or compatibility issues with your TV’s operating system, especially if the app hasn’t been optimized for your model.
TV Overheating
If your TV is overheating due to excessive use or poor ventilation, it may cause apps to crash or freeze as the TV tries to conserve energy.

Steps to Fix Crashing Apps on Your Smart TV

1. Restart the TV

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches.

Turn off your Smart TV.
Unplug it from the power outlet and leave it unplugged for about 30 seconds.
Plug it back in and turn it on.
Open the app again to see if the issue persists.

2. Update the TV’s Software

Outdated firmware can cause apps to crash.

Go to Settings > Support > Software Update on your TV.
Check for updates and install any that are available.
Once updated, restart the TV and check the app again.

3. Update the Apps

Apps may also require updates to fix bugs or improve performance.

Open the App Store or App Settings on your Smart TV.
Look for any available updates for the app(s) causing the issue and install them.

4. Clear the App Cache and Data

Clearing the cache can help resolve issues caused by corrupted data.

Go to Settings > Apps or Applications on your TV.
Select the app that’s crashing.
Choose Clear Cache and Clear Data.
Restart the app and see if the issue is fixed.

5. Check Your Internet Connection

A poor internet connection can lead to app crashes, especially for streaming services.

Test the internet speed on your Smart TV by going to Settings > Network and running a speed test.
If the connection is slow, try restarting your router or moving your TV closer to the Wi-Fi source.
Consider switching to a wired Ethernet connection for better stability.

6. Free Up Storage Space

If your TV is running low on storage, it can cause apps to crash.

Go to Settings > Storage or Memory.
Check how much available space you have.
Uninstall any apps you don’t use or move files to external storage to free up space.

7. Uninstall and Reinstall the App

If the app continues to crash, uninstalling and reinstalling it can often resolve the problem.

Go to Settings > Apps or Applications.
Select the app and choose Uninstall.
Once uninstalled, go to the app store, find the app, and reinstall it.

8. Reset to Factory Settings

If all else fails, you may need to reset your TV to factory settings. This will erase all settings, apps, and data, returning your TV to its original state.

Go to Settings > System > Reset.
Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your TV.
Once the TV restarts, reinstall your apps and check if they’re working properly.

When to Contact Support

If the apps still crash after trying all the troubleshooting steps, the issue may be more complex. It could be related to a hardware malfunction, compatibility issue, or a deeper software bug. In this case, it’s best to contact the customer support team for your TV brand. They can guide you through more advanced solutions or arrange for a repair if needed.

Preventive Measures

Keep your TV and apps updated regularly to avoid issues caused by outdated software.
Limit the number of active apps running in the background to prevent memory overload.
Monitor your TV’s storage capacity and clear data or uninstall apps when needed.
Ensure your internet connection is stable for smooth streaming and app performance.

Conclusion

Crashing apps on your Smart TV can be a real nuisance, but most of the time, it's fixable with a few simple troubleshooting steps. Whether it's updating your TV's software, clearing app data, or checking your Wi-Fi connection, you can get your apps back to working smoothly. If the issue persists, don’t hesitate to reach out to customer support for further assistance.