Issues
- An app is not working properly on my iPhone or Android device.
- An app keeps crashing or will not respond on my phone or tablet.
- I cannot log in to an app such as the Outlook app.
- How do I fix login issues in an app?
- How do I troubleshoot an app that malfunctions on iOS or Android?
- How do I clear an app's cache on Android?
Environment
This article applies to anyone experiencing problems with apps installed on iOS or Android devices, including situations where an app is malfunctioning, not responding, or having login issues. Examples include email apps such as the Outlook app, social media apps, or any other installed application. Personal mobile devices are supported on a best-effort basis and are not managed by Bowdoin IT.
Resolution
Work through the steps in order and check whether the app works after each one.
- Check the internet connection. Confirm the device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network or has a strong mobile data signal, since apps often need internet access to function correctly.
- Restart the device. Turning the device off and back on refreshes the system and clears temporary glitches, which resolves many basic app issues.
- Update the app. Check the App Store on iOS or the Google Play Store on Android for an available update to the app, and install any update that is available, since updates can fix bugs and improve performance.
- Clear the cache (Android only). On Android, open device Settings, select Apps, find and select the app, and clear its cache to remove stored data that may be causing problems.
- Reinstall the app. If the app still does not work, delete it and reinstall it.
- On iOS: Press and hold the app icon on the home screen until it starts wiggling, tap the X to delete it, then open the App Store, search for the app, and reinstall it.
- On Android: Open device Settings, select Apps, choose the app, and uninstall it, then open the Google Play Store, search for the app, and install it again.
- Check login credentials. If you have trouble logging in to an app, double-check the username and password. If you have forgotten the password, use the app's Forgot password option to reset it.
- Contact the app's support. If the steps above do not resolve the problem, contact the app's customer support for further assistance. Look for a support section within the app or visit the developer's website for contact information.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.