Here is the truth most guides won’t tell you:

If the XML file is trying to download via Chrome or a system browser: Go to > Privacy/Security > Special App Access . Tap Install Unknown Apps . Select your browser (e.g., Chrome) and toggle Off . 3. Uninstall Play Services Updates

However , revoking internet permission entirely from Play Services is too aggressive—it breaks most functionality. Instead, a more targeted approach uses an app like (open-source) or NetGuard to block only specific hosts.

Most importantly, you won’t see an immediate failure. Problems may appear weeks later when a new backend API expects a config flag your device never downloaded.

If you don’t care about granular control, simply starve Play Services of background data.

: On the OS level, forcibly disabling or removing Play Services—especially on Samsung devices—can occasionally lead to "soft-bricking" or constant system crashes.

Search the Play Store for “disable play services xml download.” You will find dozens of apps claiming to do this.

If the "Disable" button is greyed out, you may need to first deactivate Find My Device Settings > Security > Device admin apps 📥 Stop Automatic Play Store Downloads & Updates