Update the app
Fix Android in-app update errors and force an update from the Play Store.
Public for Android uses Google Play in-app updates — you usually update without leaving the app. If something goes wrong, here's how to fix it.
"Could not start in-app update"
This message means Google Play couldn't start the update for some reason. To recover:
- Open the Play Store.
- Search for Public.
- Tap Update if shown — this performs the update directly without using in-app updates.
If you see Open instead of Update, you already have the latest version.
Required update keeps failing
If you have a forced update that won't install:
- Make sure you have enough free storage — large updates need extra room.
- Make sure your internet connection is stable. Try Wi-Fi if you're on mobile data.
- Open the Play Store and update Public from there directly.
- If Play Store also fails, uninstall Public, then reinstall it from Play. Sign in again with the same account.
Reinstalling does not delete your account or data — those live on Public's servers. You'll be back to the same account when you sign in.
Optional update prompt won't go away
If the Update available card keeps appearing even after you tap Update:
- Tap Update and wait for Update downloaded. Restarting….
- If the app doesn't restart on its own, force-close and reopen it.
- Confirm the new version on the Menu → Public App vX.Y.Z footer.
Auto-update
To stop being prompted manually, enable auto-update in the Play Store:
- Open Play Store → Public listing.
- Tap the menu (⋮) and turn on Enable auto-update.
Check what version you're on
Open the Menu tab. The footer shows Public App vX.Y.Z.