Stop an App Download From the Google Play Store
Many apps in the Google Play Store (and other app stores) deliberately try to look like other popular apps. Search for a Google app, and you’ll see plenty of copycats. If you accidentally tap Install on one of these lookalikes, you can stop the download immediately by tapping the X next to the progress bar.
Stop a Download From an App
When you start downloading something from an app, such as a mobile browser or messaging app, there’s no straightforward way to pause or stop the download. You can turn off Wi-Fi in a pinch, put your phone in airplane mode, or power off your phone. You can also download a third-party file manager that has better options for stopping downloads.
Prevent Downloads From Apps
If you often find yourself (or someone who uses your phone) unintentionally downloading apps on your Android, it’s a good idea to restrict downloads from some or all your apps. For example, someone could access a random app store in a mobile browser, such as Chrome, which can put your security at risk.
Delete Apps and Files
If you accidentally download an app or file that you don’t want, you can delete it.
Delete Downloaded Apps
Go to Settings > Apps & notifications, and find the app in the list. Tap the app name and then tap Uninstall.
Delete Downloaded Files
If the download was a file rather than an app, you can delete it:
Last Resort: Reset Your Device
Sometimes a download affects the performance of your smartphone, such as slowing it down or disabling functions. In that case, the best solution is to reset your phone to factory settings.
