To clear the cache or storage for an Android app on a Chromebook, right-click the app’s icon in the launcher or shelf, choose App info, then tap Storage and choose Clear cache or Clear storage.
Applies to: Any Chromebook with Android app (Google Play Store) support enabled.
How do you clear cache from the launcher or shelf?
- Find the app in your launcher or pinned to the shelf.
- Right-click (or long-press on a touchscreen) the app’s icon and choose App info.
- On the App info screen, tap Storage.
- Choose Clear cache to remove temporary files, or Clear storage to reset the app completely, including its saved data and settings.
How do you find any Android app’s storage settings from Settings?
This method works for any Android app on your Chromebook, even one that is not pinned anywhere you can right-click.
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to the Apps section and click Google Play Store.
- Click Manage Android preferences. This opens the Android Settings app.
- Tap Apps, then See all apps to list every Android app installed on your Chromebook.
- Select the app you want, then tap Storage.
- Choose Clear cache or Clear storage as needed.
What is the difference between clearing cache and clearing storage?
Clearing the cache removes temporary files the app builds up over time, like thumbnails and downloaded assets. It does not touch your logins or saved data, and the app rebuilds the cache as you use it again. Clearing storage is more drastic: it wipes the app back to a fresh install, removing saved logins, preferences, and any local data. Use cache clearing first for troubleshooting; only clear storage if that does not fix the problem.
FAQ
Will clearing cache delete my app data or log me out?
No. Clearing cache only removes temporary files. Clearing storage is the option that removes saved data and logs you out.
Why would I clear an Android app’s cache on a Chromebook?
It is a common first troubleshooting step when an Android app is misbehaving, showing outdated content, or using more storage than expected.
