How To Downgrade Google Play Services 12.6 85

Okay, so you've got this hankering for a slightly older, perhaps wiser version of Google Play Services. Like wanting to revisit that comfy, worn-out sweater instead of rocking the latest, flashiest trend. Let's dive in!

First Things First: The Backup Boogie

Imagine your phone is a tiny turtle, and we're about to take its shell off for a little while. Turtle safety first! So, back everything up! Think photos of Aunt Mildred's prize-winning zucchini, your high scores in Candy Crush Saga, all of it.

Google makes it pretty easy. Head into your settings, find the backup option, and let it do its thing. Consider it giving your phone a little insurance policy.

The App Graveyard: Uninstalling Updates

Now, this is where it gets slightly adventurous. We're going to uninstall updates to Google Play Services. Don't worry, your phone won't self-destruct, I promise!

Go to Settings, then Apps (or Applications Manager, depending on your phone). Scroll, scroll, scroll until you find Google Play Services. Tap it! Then, look for a button that says "Uninstall Updates." Press that button with the courage of a thousand suns!

The Numbers Game: Finding Your Target Version

Alright, so you've uninstalled the updates and your Google Play Services is at some lower version. Now, we need to find the exact version 12.6.85.

This is like searching for that specific, slightly cracked teacup in your grandmother's attic. Get the APK. There are a few reputable websites where you can safely download older APK files.

APK Installation: Embrace the Side-Load

Here comes the "side-load." Sounds kind of illicit, doesn't it? It just means installing an app from a file, rather than directly from the Play Store.

Before you can side-load, your phone needs permission. Go to your security settings and allow installation from "Unknown Sources" or "Install other apps." Your phone might give you a warning, but trust your gut (and this article, of course!).

Now, find that downloaded APK file and tap it. Follow the on-screen instructions to install. Be careful, make sure you downloaded from a trusted website. Don't go trusting just any old APK you find down a digital alleyway!

The Disable Dance: Auto-Updates Begone!

Congratulations! You've successfully downgraded! Time for a celebratory jig. But, hold your horses.

We need to prevent Google Play Services from updating automatically. Head into the Play Store, tap the menu icon (those three little lines), and go to Settings.

Find "Auto-update apps" and choose "Don't auto-update apps." This is like telling your phone, "No, thank you, I'll decide when it's time for a new hat."

The Waiting Game (and the Occasional Glitch)

You've done it! You've successfully traveled back in time, at least as far as Google Play Services is concerned.

Now, keep an eye on things. Sometimes, older versions might throw a little tantrum. If things get too wonky, you can always update back to the latest version and call it a day. This can happen!

Remember, messing around with system apps can be a bit like performing open-heart surgery on a robot. Do your research, be careful, and have fun! Good luck!