Smartphones Meizu based on a proprietary shell Flyme OS have historically done without pre-installed services Google. This brand decision was due to performance optimization and the characteristics of the Chinese market. However, for most users outside of China, the lack of Google Play Market, GMS (Google Mobile Services) and related services - like Google Play Services, YouTube or Gmail - creates serious inconvenience. Without them, it is impossible to install many applications, synchronize data via Google Account or use geolocation services to their full potential.
Fortunately, you can install Google Play on Meizu on your own - and you donโt have to be an experienced user to do this. In this article we will analyze three proven methods (including official and alternative ones), dwell in detail on the nuances for different models (Meizu 21 Pro, Meizu 20, Meizu 18s etc.), and also warn against typical mistakes that can lead to services not working or Flyme OS malfunctioning. If you just purchased a smartphone Meizu or have been trying to solve this problem for a long time, read on.
It is worth noting that the installation process Google Play Services on Meizu differs from the standard procedure on most Android devices. The fact is that Flyme OS uses its own ecosystem of applications (App Center) and is not certified by Google for pre-installation GMS. This doesn't mean Google services can't be installedโit just takes a little more effort. It is also important to understand that after installation, some functions (for example Google Pay or Widevine L1 for streaming in high definition) may not work correctly - this is a limitation at the firmware level.
1. Official method: installing Google Play via Flyme Account
The safest and recommended method is to use the built-in function Flyme OS for installation Google Play Services. It is suitable for most modern models (Meizu 18 and newer) and does not require root access or unlocking the bootloader. Here's how it works:
The essence of the method is that Meizu provides users with the opportunity to legally install GMS through an official account Flyme. This does not violate the warranty and does not block the device. However, there is a caveat: the function is not available in all regions and may disappear in new firmware versions.
Create or log into a Flyme account
Connect your smartphone to a stable Wi-Fi network
Make sure that the Flyme OS version is up-to-date (update if necessary)
Make a backup copy of your important data-->
Step-by-step guide:
- Open
Settingson your Meizu. - Go to the section
Accounts โ Flyme Accountand log in (or create a new account if you donโt have one). - Return to the main menu
Settingsand find the itemAdditional settings โ Google Services Framework(the name may differ depending on the version of Flyme). - Click on the button
Install Google Services(or similar). The system will automatically download and install the necessary packages. - After installation is complete, restart the device.
- Open
Settings โ Applicationsand check for availabilityGoogle Play Market,Google Play ServicesandGoogle Services Framework.
If the item Google Services Framework is missing in the menu, this means that your model or firmware version does not support official installation. In this case, proceed to alternative methods (sections 2 and 3).
โ ๏ธ Attention: On some models (Meizu 16s Pro and older) after installation Google Play Services there may be a problem with operation Push notifications. This is due to a conflict between Google and Flyme services. The solution is to disable battery optimization for Google applications in the settings.
2. Alternative method: manual installation of GMS via APK
If the official method is not available, you can install Google Play Services manually by downloading the necessary ones. This method is universal and works on most devices, but requires caution: the wrong version may cause system malfunctions. data-i="108">๐ฑ Suitable for models APK files. This method is universal and works on most devices Meizu, but requires caution: incorrect version GMS may cause system malfunctions.
Before you begin, please note:
- ๐ฑ Suitable for models Meizu 16 and newer (including Meizu 20 Pro).
- ๐ Requires preliminary configuration of permission to install applications from unknown sources.
- โ๏ธ You may need to roll back the version
Google Play Servicesif the new version is incompatible with Flyme OS. - ๐ Method not required root access, but may reset some settings after a reboot.
Instructions:
- Download the archive with the necessary
APK filesfor your model Meizu. Recommended sources:Google Account Manager(version 7.1.2 or 5.1.1 for older devices)Google Services Framework(version 11 or 12)Google Play Services(version 23.30.13 or lower for Flyme OS)Google Play Store(version 34.7.16 or similar)
โ ๏ธ Attention: Do not use the latest versions GMS โthey are often incompatible with Flyme OS and can cause permanent errors. The best option is files from 2022โ2023.
APK files to the phone memory.Settings โ Security โ Unknown Sources (allow for the file manager).com.google.android.gms-XX.apk(Google Play Services)com.google.android.gsf-XX.apk(Google Services Framework)com.google.android.gsf.login-XX.apk(Google Account Manager)com.android.vending-XX.apk(Google Play Market)
Google Play Market, log into your Google account and check if it works.| Meizu model | Recommended version of GMS | Possible problems |
|---|---|---|
| Meizu 21 Pro | 23.30.13 (or lower) | Lack of notifications from Google applications |
| Meizu 20/20 Pro | 22.50.14 | Freezes during account synchronization |
| Meizu 18/18s/18 Pro | 21.45.16 | Error "Google Play Services has stopped" |
| Meizu 16s Pro | 19.7.56 | Geolocation in Google Maps does not work |
If after installation Google Play Market does not open or gives an error, try:
- ๐ Delete cache and application data
Google Play Servicesin the settings. - ๐ฅ Reinstall
APK filesin a different order (for example, firstGoogle Account Manager). - ๐ง Disable battery optimization for Google services in the Flyme OS settings.
If after installation Google Play Market does not display application, try changing the region in the Google account settings to โUSAโ or โGermanyโ. This often solves the problem with an empty directory.
3. Installing GMS via Magisk (for advanced users)
If the first two methods did not work, there is still an option using Magisk - a tool for obtaining root access and modification of system files. This method is suitable for experienced users, as it requires unlocking the bootloader and can lead to loss of warranty.
Advantages of the method:
- ๐ง Full compatibility with the latest versions
GMS. - ๐ฑ Solving problems with
Push notificationsand geolocation. - ๐ Ability to roll back changes if necessary.
Disadvantages:
- โ ๏ธ Risk of โbrickingโ the device if done incorrectly.
- ๐ Loss of warranty (if the device is under warranty).
- ๐ The need to regularly update Magisk modules.
Step-by-step guide:
- Unlock the bootloader (
Bootloader) on your Meizu. To do this:- Activate developer mode:
Settings โ About phone โ Build number(press 7 times). - Enable
OEM Unlockin the developer settings. - Connect your phone to the PC and run the command:
fastboot flashing unlock
- Activate developer mode:
TWRP or patch boot.img (instructions depend on the model).GMS Doze or Universal GMS Installer for Magisk.Magisk Manager and reboot device.Google Play Services and Google Play Market manually (as in method 2).โ ๏ธ Attention: On some models Meizu (for example, Meizu 17 Pro) after installation, Magisk may stop workingWidevine L1, which will lead to a decrease in the quality of streaming by Netflix or Disney+ to480p. The solution is to use the moduleMagiskHide Props Configto mask root access.
What to do if after installing Magisk the phone does not turn on?
If the device is stuck on the logo or goes into bootloop, try:
1. Enter recovery mode (Volume Up + Power).
2. Reset to factory settings (Wipe Data).
3. Reflash the device via Fastboot using official firmware from Meizu.
If the problem persists, contact a service center - independent intervention may worsen situation.
4. Checking the functionality of Google Play Services
After installation Google Play Services you need to make sure that all components are working correctly. Here's how to do it:
Step 1: Checking the version GMS
- Open
Settings โ Applications โ Google Play Services. - Check the version - it should match the one you installed (for example,
23.30.13). - If the version is updated automatically, roll back it manually (download the one you need
APKand install on top). - ๐ฑ Installing applications from
Google Play Market(for example, Google Maps or Gmail). - ๐ Checking geolocation in Google Maps or Yandex.Maps.
- ๐ Test
Push notifications(send a test message via Telegram or Gmail). - ๐ Synchronizing contacts and calendar with Google Account.
- ๐ฑ Does not require
GMS, but provides access to the directoryGoogle Play. - ๐ Anonymous installation (can be used without a Google account).
- โ ๏ธ Not all applications will be updated automatically.
- ๐ The largest database
APK fileswith verified versions of applications. - ๐ Ability to download old versions of applications compatible with Flyme OS.
- โ ๏ธ Risk of downloading an unofficial modification (check the hash sums of the files).
- ๐ฑ Official store from Huawei, compatible with most Android devices.
- ๐ Registration required account Huawei ID.
- โ ๏ธ The application catalog is smaller than in
Google Play. - ๐ก๏ธ An open source store with an emphasis on privacy.
- ๐ฑ All applications are free and without unnecessary water.
- โ ๏ธ Very limited choice (there are no popular services like Instagram or WhatsApp).
- ๐ Without
Google Play Servicessome applications (for example, Uber, Google Maps, banking applications) may not work or work with errors. - ๐ฑ For applications that require
GMS, you can use microG - open implementation of Google services, however, its configuration requires root access. - Register the device in Google Device Registration (you will need to enter
Google Services Framework ID, which can be obtained through the app Device ID). - Use module
MagiskHide Props Configto disguise the device as a certified one (required root).
Step 2: Test basic functions
Step 3: Diagnosis of errors
If something doesn't work, use these solutions:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Google Play Market does not open | Incompatible version GMS or Google Account Manager |
Uninstall all Google applications and install an older version |
| Error "Google Play Services has stopped" | Conflict with Flyme optimization OS | Disable battery optimization for GMS in settings |
| Push notifications do not arrive | Google services are blocked Flyme | Add Google Play Services optimization exceptions |
| Geolocation does not work correctly | Missing module GPS for Google |
Install GPS Status & Toolbox from APK and update the data |
If, after installing Google Play Services, the phone starts to heat up or quickly discharges, check the background activity of Google services in the battery settings. Often the problem is solved by disabling automatic synchronization for unnecessary applications.
5. Alternatives to Google Play on Meizu
If the installation Google Play Services turned out to be too complicated or did not bring the expected result, consider alternative ways to install applications on Meizu:
1. Aurora Store
Download APK from the official website and install manually. To work, you will need permission to install from unknown sources.
2. APKMirror
3. AppGallery (Huawei)
4. F-Droid
If you choose an alternative Google Play, remember:
6. their solutions
When installing Google Play Services on Meizu users often encounter typical problems. Here are the most common of them and how to fix them:
Error 1: "The device is not certified"
Reason: Meizu does not have official Google certification, so some applications (for example, Netflix or Google Pay) can block access.
Solution:
Error 2: "Google Play Services keeps stopping"
Cause: Conflict between version GMS and Flyme OS, or battery optimization blocks background activity.
Solution:
- Open
Settings โ Battery โ Battery optimization. - Find
Google Play Servicesand disable optimization. - Clear the cache and data
Google Play Services. - If the error persists, install an older version
GMS(for example,22.50.14instead of23.xx.xx).
Error 3: Not working Push notifications
Reason: Flyme OS aggressively optimizes background processes by blocking Google services.
Solution:
- Add
Google Play Servicesto the protected list applications:Settings โ Battery โ Protected applications. - Disable power saving mode for your Google account.
- Install the module
Universal GMS Dozevia Magisk (if available root).
Error 4: Geolocation does not work in Google Maps
Cause: Missing module Google Location Services or conflict with system services Meizu.
Solution:
- Install
APKfilesGoogle Location HistoryandGoogle Mapsmanually. - Enable high-precision location:
Settings โ Location โ Mode โ High precision. - Update data
AGPSvia application GPS Status & Toolbox.
โ ๏ธ Attention: On some models Meizu (for example, Meizu 16X) after installation Google Play Services may stop workingNFCfor contactless payments. This is due to a conflict betweenGMSand system drivers. There is no solution - you will have to choose betweenGoogle Payand stable workNFC.
7. How to remove Google Play Services from Meizu
If after installation Google Play Services the device becomes unstable, or you decide to return to the original Flyme OS without GMS, you can remove all associated components. Here's how to do it safely:
Method 1: Uninstall through settings (without root)
- Open
Settings โ Applications. - Find and select:
Google Play ServicesGoogle Play MarketGoogle Services FrameworkGoogle Account Manager
Delete (or Disableif the delete button is inactive).Method 2: Complete removal via ADB (for advanced users)
If Google applications are not removed in the standard way, use ADB:
- Connect the phone to the PC and activate
USB debuggingin the developer settings. - Open the command line and run:
adb shellpm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.gms
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.gsf
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.vending
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.gsf.login - Reboot the device.
Method 3: Factory reset settings
If after deleting GMS artifacts remain (for example, errors when launching system applications), perform a full reset:
- Make a backup copy of important data.
- Go to
Settings โ System โ Reset settings. - Select
Delete all data (factory reset). - After reboot, set up the phone as a new device.
โ ๏ธ Attention: If you installed Google Play Services via Magisk, before deleting, disable all related modules in Magisk Manager. Otherwise, after resetting, the device may not boot.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about installing Google Play on Meizu
Is it possible to install Google Play on Meizu without a computer?
Yes, the first two methods (official and manual installation APK) do not require connection to a PC. You only need a stable Internet connection to download files and a file manager to install them.
The exception is the c Magiskmethod, which requires unlocking the bootloader and working with ADB/Fastboot (and this already requires the use of a computer).
Why does Google Play Market not show after installation? application?
This problem is usually due to one of three reasons:
- Incompatible version
Google Play Services. Install an older version (for example,22.50.14instead of23.xx.xx). - Region restrictions. Check your region Google Accounts โSome applications may not be available in your country. Try changing the region to "US" in your account settings.
- Lack of device certification. Meizu are not certified by Google, so some applications may not appear. The solution is to register the device manually (see section 6).
Will Google Pay work on Meizu after installing GMS?
Theoretically yes, but with reservations:
- ๐ฑ On most models Meizu
Google Paywill be installed, but may not work due to lack of certificationSafetyNet. - ๐ To operate contactless payments via
NFCyou will need to: - Install the module
MagiskHide Props Configand disguise the device as a certified one (for example,Pixel 5). - Disable
Root accessforGoogle Play Services. - โ ๏ธ On some models (for example, Meizu 18 Pro)
NFCmay conflict withGMS, which will makeGoogle Payinoperable.
An alternative is to use other payment systems, for example Samsung Pay (if supported) or banking applications with their own solutions for contactless payments.
Is it possible to update Google Play Services after installation?
Yes, but with caution. Automatic updating via Google Play Market often leads to the installation of an incompatible version, which causes crashes. Recommendations:
- ๐ Disable automatic updating for
Google Play Servicesin the settingsGoogle Play Market. - ๐ฅ Download updates manually from trusted sources (for example, APKMirror) and install only those versions that are guaranteed to work on Flyme OS.
- ๐ Before updating, check reviews from other users Meizu on thematic forums (for example, 4PDA or XDA Developers).
If problems arise after the update, cancel