How to Prevent Google Play Store from Updating on a Rooted Lollipop 5.1.1

Introduction

The transition from KitKat to Lollipop introduced several changes in how apps are managed and updated on Android devices. One such change is that updates are now placed in a different location, often in a folder rather than directly in the app's download directory. For users who have root access and are looking for ways to prevent the Google Play Store from updating automatically, this article can provide a comprehensive guide. This guide focuses on rooted devices running Lollipop 5.1.1 and explores potential methods for managing app updates.

Understanding the Issue

On rooted Lollipop 5.1.1 devices, the Google Play Store behaves differently compared to previous versions like KitKat. In KitKat, application updates were directly placed in the app's folder, which made it easier for users to manage their downloads. However, Lollipop introduced a new system for handling updates, often storing them in a different directory, making them less visible and harder to access.

Method 1: Freezing the Google Play Store

One of the most straightforward methods to prevent the Google Play Store from updating is to freeze it. This can be achieved using apps like Link2SD, which is a popular tool for managing app files. By freezing the Google Play Store, you can stop it from updating until you thaw it.

Steps to Freeze the Google Play Store:

1. Install Link2SD: Download and install the Link2SD app from the Play Store. Make sure that your device is rooted and that you have sufficient storage space.

2. Locate the Google Play Store APK: Use the Link2SD app to locate the Google Play Store APK file. This file is usually found in the /data/app/ folder.

3. Freeze the APK: Use Link2SD to freeze the Google Play Store APK. Freezing the file will prevent it from updating until you unfreeze it.

Method 2: Controlling App Updates via Tasker

For users who prefer a more automated solution, Tasker can be utilized to control app updates. Tasker is a powerful automation app that allows you to set up rules based on specific conditions. You can create a rule that prevents the Google Play Store from updating.

Steps to Control App Updates Using Tasker:

1. Install Tasker: Download and install Tasker from the Play Store. Ensure that your device is rooted.

2. Install the App Settings Adapter Plugin: To control app updates, you need to install the App Settings Adapter plugin within Tasker.

3. Create a Task: In Tasker, create a task that disables the automatic updates for the Google Play Store. You can use the App Settings Adapter to configure the Google Play Store to not allow updates.

Method 3: Using M Panel

M Panel is an open-source tool that can help you manage various settings on your rooted device. It offers an easy-to-use interface to control app updates. You can use M Panel to set the Google Play Store to not allow updates.

Steps to Use M Panel:

1. Install M Panel: Download and install M Panel from the Play Store. Ensure that your device is rooted.

2. Access the App Update Settings: Open M Panel and navigate to the app update settings. You can disable updates for the Google Play Store or customize the interval between updates.

Conclusion

Managing app updates on a rooted device with Lollipop 5.1.1 can be achieved through various methods. Whether you prefer a manual approach using Link2SD, an automated solution with Tasker, or a more comprehensive tool like M Panel, there are several options available. By understanding these methods and choosing the one that best suits your needs, you can effectively control the updates of the Google Play Store and customize your Android experience.

Keywords: Google Play Store, rooted device, Lollipop 5.1.1, app update, freeze app