Technology

Quick Guide on How to Change Android Region to Download Unavailable Apps or When Abroad

Do you need to find out how to switch Android regions quickly and effectively to download games unavailable in Vietnam or simply to switch data regions on your Android phone for travel or work abroad? Refer to the instructions on how to switch Android regions in this article.

Administrator

30 April, 2024

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Preparing for an international trip or switching carriers but wondering how to change regions on Android to modify network coverage and carrier data reception capabilities? Conveniently, all phones running the Android operating system have a feature that lets you change data regions with ease.

In this article, FPT Shop provides detailed instructions on how to change regions on Android, ensuring you’re always connected and can use your phone anywhere you go.

What is Meant by Changing Regions on Android?

In practice, there are multiple interpretations of changing regions on Android, so many people may get confused when they need to change regions on their Android devices. Specifically, there are two ways to change regions on Android that you need to clearly distinguish:

Changing mobile data regions: when you travel abroad to a country that is not covered by your current carrier’s network, you will naturally need to change mobile data regions to access the internet (3G/4G), send text messages, and make phone calls while overseas. Activating data roaming on your phone, in combination with registering for international roaming, will enable you to conveniently use your Vietnamese carrier’s SIM card abroad. However, additional charges will apply.

Changing regions/areas/countries on the Google Play Store: This involves changing the Play Store region to a different country to access and download apps that are restricted to certain countries or blocked in the Vietnamese market. In other words, you are changing the location of the Google Play Store app store.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Regions on Android Phones

Changing mobile data regions on Android

Changing regions on Android can be slightly complex, but here are the basic steps you can follow to change regions on your Android phone with ease.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Android phone.

Step 2: In the settings menu, go to SIM cards & mobile networks.

Step 3: Select the SIM card from the carrier you want to change regions for on Android.

Step 4: Scroll down and toggle the switch for the Data roaming option under Network settings.

Step 5: A notification will immediately pop up, informing you that enabling Android roaming will incur roaming charges. Tap Turn on to confirm changing regions on Android.

Next, activate the Roaming feature and register for data packages in that country.

Changing regions on the Google Play Store

Changing regions on the Google Play Store requires you to use a VPN tool or apps that can fake your IP address to other countries.

Step 1: First, you need to download VPN apps that can fake your IP, such as Kiwi VPN, NordVPN, My IP Hide, etc.

Step 2: After downloading and installing the app, open it and select a new IP address to change regions on the Google Play Store.

Step 3: Open the Google Play Store and tap on your Google account icon.

Step 4: Select Settings to access the customization settings page on the Google Play Store.

Step 5: Select General > Account and device preferences.

Step 6: Under Country and profiles, you will see the message Switch to the Play Store in Japan. This means that you have now changed regions on the Google Play Store.

However, to optimize your experience, you can add a credit card, debit card, or PayPal account to purchase apps or make in-app purchases through the Play Store in that market.

Tips for Changing Regions on Android Quickly and Safely

When changing regions on an Android phone, here are some tips to help you do it quickly and safely:

Check SIM compatibility and mobile service

If you are using a local SIM card, find out the coverage range of the SIM. If not, you may need to purchase a new SIM.

Learn about the settings and regulations at the new location

Each region has different regulations and settings, such as regulations on mobile network usage, time zone settings, and language. Before changing regions, find out about the requirements and necessary settings in the new region.

Follow specific instructions from the manufacturer and service provider

Each manufacturer and service provider may have specific procedures and instructions for changing regions. Make sure to follow these instructions to ensure safe and effective region changing.

Troubleshooting Common Problems When Changing Regions on Android

When changing data regions on an Android phone, you may encounter some common problems. Here are some ways to fix these problems:

Check network connectivity

One of the common problems when changing regions is losing network connectivity. Ensure that your phone is connected to an available Wi-Fi or mobile network and has a stable network signal.

Restart your device

Restarting your phone can solve some common problems. Sometimes, restarting the device can resolve issues such as apps not functioning properly after changing regions.

Clear app cache data

Some apps may experience problems after changing regions due to incompatible cached data. You can clear the cache data of apps by going to Settings > Application Management > Select the app you want to clear the cache for > Clear cache data.

Repeat the region changing process

If the above measures do not solve the problem, you can repeat the process of changing regions on Android.

Frequently asked questions

The availability of apps on the Google Play Store can vary depending on your region and country settings. If you’re facing issues downloading certain apps, it’s likely because the app is not available in your region, or your device’s country settings don’t match the region where the app is offered. To fix this, you can change your Android region settings to match the region where the app is available. This guide provides a step-by-step process to do so, allowing you to access and download unavailable apps.

To change your Android region, go to your device’s Settings, find ‘System,’ and select ‘Advanced.’ From there, choose ‘Region,’ and you’ll be able to select a new region. It’s important to note that changing the region may affect your device’s language and other regional settings. Once you’ve changed the region, you can access the Google Play Store and download the desired app.

If you’re traveling and want to access apps from a different region temporarily, you can change your Android region settings as mentioned above. However, keep in mind that this may affect your access to apps and content from your home region. When you return home, remember to change your region settings back to your actual location to regain access to local apps and services.

While changing your Android region can give you access to previously unavailable apps, there are a few considerations. First, some apps may have region-specific features or content that might not work as expected in a different region. Second, payment methods and pricing may vary across regions, so you may encounter issues with in-app purchases or subscriptions. Additionally, changing your region settings may impact the language and other localization aspects of your device.

Yes, it is possible to change the region settings on a rooted Android device. However, rooting your device provides deeper access to system files and settings, so it’s important to exercise caution and only make changes if you’re confident in your technical abilities. It’s always recommended to back up your device before making any significant changes.