How to Turn Off Background Apps on Android

Introduction

We all know how frustrating it can be when our smartphones run out of battery or slow down due to apps we’re not actively using. In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through the process of identifying and disabling background apps on your Android device to not only improve battery life but also enhance overall performance.

Some of the images associated with the steps are included inline below. All images associated with these steps can be seen in the embedded YouTube video. Also, please note that you’re not able to leave a comment directly on this article. If you have a question or feedback, please leave it on the YouTube video.

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Steps to Turn Off Background Apps on Android

  1. Swipe up on your Android device’s home screen to display the Apps screen, and then tap “Settings.” The Settings screen is displayed.
Swipe up on the Android home screen, and then tap the Settings app.
  1. Tap “Apps” in the menu. The Apps screen appears, showing a list of all of the apps currently installed on your Android device.
Tap Apps.
  1. Tap the Android app you want to turn off background activity for. The App Info screen for that app is displayed.
  2. Tap “Battery” in the Usage section. The Use Detailed screen is displayed.
Tap the Android app you want to turn off background activity for.
  1. Tap to turn off the toggle associated with Allow Background Activity. That specific app will no longer run in the background. Repeat this process for any other installed apps you want to turn off background activity for.
Tap Battery.

Reasons to Turn Off Background Applications on Your Android Device

1. Improve Battery Life

Conserve your Android device’s battery life by turning off background apps. These apps consume significant power even when not in use. Avoiding unnecessary battery drain keeps your phone or tablet charged and ready for use all day long.

2. Increase Device Performance

Speed up your phone or tablet by turning off background apps. Multiple apps running in the background slow down the device and cause lag or unresponsiveness. By turning off these apps, you’ll experience a smoother, faster device.

3. Manage Device Memory

Free up memory and improve performance on your Android device by turning off background apps. Running too many apps can cause the device to crash or freeze due to lack of memory. By turning off these apps, you can ensure your phone or tablet operates at its best.

4. Prevent Data Usage

Save on data costs by turning off background apps. Some apps continue using data even when not in use, leading to overage charges. Turning off these apps stops data usage, conserving your data plan.

5. Improve Privacy

Protect your privacy by turning off background apps. Some Android apps collect and share data without your knowledge, compromising your personal information. By turning off these apps, you take control of your data and keep it secure.

6. Enhance Security

Strengthen your security by turning off background apps. Some Android apps contain malware or malicious software that can harm the device. By turning off these apps, you help keep your phone or tablet secure and protected from potential harm.

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About Max

Max has nearly 20 years of experience working in IT across three different industries in project management and management capacities: publishing, telecommunications and healthcare. He holds the following degrees and certifications: BS Communications, MA Communications, MBA and Project Management Professional (PMP). His tutorial-focused YouTube channel earned more than 100,000 subscribers in its first four years, and currently has more than 160,000 subscribers, 110,000,000 video views and an insane 2.4 million hours of watch time. Max enjoys learning new technology, reading and collecting comic books, listening to audiobooks and playing video games.

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