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How to Replace WebView on Android Devices

Replacing WebView on Android devices can help resolve issues caused by outdated versions. However, the process involves risks and requires careful handling. This guide explains the steps to replace WebView, including recommendations, limitations, and troubleshooting methods.

Table of Contents

Compatibility​

Important warning
  • Check WebView Compatibility: Make sure to check which kind of WebView (System/Bromium/Chromium/Google) your device uses before trying to update.
    • You can check what kind of and which version of WebView the device has in Screen info.
  • Physical Access Recommended: WebView replacements can fail, so ensure you have physical access to the device for repairs if needed.
  • Stable Internet Connection Required: An unstable connection will cause the replacement process to fail with errors such as:
Error in REPLACE_SYSTEM_WEB_VIE_INITIAL! Reason: Unable to download System WebView application

cant_download

  • Rooted Devices Only: Replacing WebView requires rooted devices.
  • Unsupported Platforms: The following platforms do not support WebView replacement or updates:
    • Qbic
    • Philips
    • Vestel
    • Sony
  • Vendor Restrictions: Custom builds provided by manufacturers may prevent successful updates.

How to Replace WebView​

For Version 3.0.x and Later

  1. Verify WebView Version:

    • Check the current WebView version in Screen Info.
    • Ensure compatibility with the replacement WebView type.

  2. Choose the Appropriate Command Based on WebView Compatibility:

    • To update the System WebView without manually downloading and hosting the WebView apk yourself:

      {"user_command":"ReplaceWebView", "command_data":{"type":"SYSTEM_WEB_VIEW"}}

      If there is no webview.apk uploaded to your server, or you are unsure what version it is please contact support.

    • To replace the Chromium WebView using a custom APK URL:

      {"user_command":"ReplaceWebView", "command_data":{"type":"CHROME", "url":"[APK_URL]"}}

    • To replace the Google System WebView using a custom APK URL:

      {"user_command":"ReplaceWebView", "command_data":{"type":"GOOGLE_SYSTEM_WEB_VIEW", "url":"[APK_URL]"}}

  1. Access Command Panel: by navigating to Send Command.

  2. Initiate Replacement:

    • Send the appropriate command. The device will download the new WebView, reboot to apply changes, and then reboot again after replacing WebView.
For Version 2.21.06.x and Earlier
  • Use the following command to replace WebView:
  { "user_command" : "ReplaceWebView" }

How to Repair Device After WebView Replacement Failed?​

Repair Locally via ADB​

  1. Connect to the device using ADB:

    • Install ADB tools (Setup Guide).
    • Use adb shell to access the device's terminal.

  2. Gain Superuser Privileges:

    • Run su for superuser access.

  3. Remount the System Partition:

    • Use mount -o rw,remount /system.
    • For Android 9.0 and higher, use mount -o rw,remount /.

  4. Delete the Old WebView:

    • Navigate to /system/app by cd /system/app.
    • Check for the WebView folder using ls -l.
    • Remove it using rm -rf webview.

  5. Install the New WebView:

    • Download the latest WebView APK from
      • Bromite
      • or one of our hosted versions: version 83
      • or version 114
    • Exit from the shell with the exit command (use multiple times if needed)
    • Install the APK with adb install <path-to-apk>.

  6. Move the New WebView to the System Folder:

    • Open the shell again
    • Navigate to cd /data/app to locate the installed WebView in com.android.webview
    • Remount the System Partition:
      • Use mount -o rw,remount /system.
      • For Android 9.0 and higher, use mount -o rw,remount /.
    • Move the installed WebView from the /data/app to /system/app using mv /data/app/<your-webview> /system/app.
    • Rename the folder to webview and set permissions to 755 using:
      • chown -R root:root webview/
      • chmod -R 755 webview/

  7. Rename the WebView apk file

    • Navigate to cd webview
    • Rename the .apk file to apk mv <old apk name> webview.apk
    • Set its permissions to 644
      • chmod 644 webview.apk

  8. Reboot the Device:

    • Restart the device and clear the WebView application data in Settings > Apps > <Your app name> > Clear data.

Repair Remotely with Terminal Emulator​

  1. Install Terminal Emulator:
    • Copy the APK installer for Terminal Emulator to the device.
    • Install it via remote connection tools like TeamViewer.
  2. Perform the Same Steps as ADB:
    • Use the Terminal Emulator to gain superuser access (su) and remount the system partition.
    • Follow the same steps to delete, install, and move the WebView APK.
  3. Reboot and Clear Data:
    • Restart the device and clear WebView data to ensure proper functionality.