How to Fix android.process.media has stopped?

When the “android.process.media has stopped” error occurs, essential apps like Gallery and Downloads often crash and become inaccessible. This error indicates that the Media Storage or Download Manager process on your device isn’t working, usually because of corrupted data or software conflicts. The most common cause is damaged media files or incomplete downloads.

Other causes may include problems after software updates, syncing errors with Google accounts, or conflicts with third-party apps.

1. Clear Cache and Data

Clearing cache and data refreshes the key processes that handle media and downloads by removing temporary or corrupted files. This action fixes glitches and prompts the system to generate new, accurate data, restoring smooth functionality after a restart.

1. Go to Settings > Apps and find Google Play Services > Storage, then clear its cache.
   
2. Scroll down to Google Play Store > Storage and clear its cache and data.
   
3. Open Google Play. If you get an error, select OK.
4. Power off your device by holding the power button and choosing Shut Down or Reboot.
5. Check if the problem is resolved.

2. Reset App Preferences

Sometimes, incorrect app settings can cause essential services like Media Storage or Download Manager to stop working, leading to errors. Resetting app preferences restores all default settings without deleting data, re-enabling disabled apps or restricted background processes, which can often fix the issues causing the error.

1. Open your phone’s settings.
2. Search for Apps or Application Manager.
3. Access the menu (usually in the upper-right corner).
4. Tap Reset App Preferences to potentially fix the issue.
   

3. Clear Contacts and Contact Storage

Clearing Contacts and Contact Storage deletes any bad or old data that might mess with the system. This helps the Android system create a new, error-free contact list, which might fix the “android.process.media has stopped” error.

1. Open the phone’s Settings and search for Contacts.
2. Tap on Contacts and select Storage.
   
3. Choose clear data and clear cache to fix the issue.