3 Ways to Stop Android Apps from Running in the Background

The Importance of Closing Apps

1. Resources:
   Although Android is great at managing resources, too many apps running in the background can slow down your phone. When background apps consume memory, your device has fewer resources for new tasks.
2. Security and Privacy:
   Background apps can potentially use your phone’s camera or microphone. While Android now alerts you if an app is using these features, it’s always better to be cautious. Rogue apps could exploit these permissions, though simply having an app open doesn’t automatically lead to problems.

For peace of mind and smoother performance, it’s a good idea to close unnecessary apps.

What Happens When You Open a New App?

When you open a new app, the app you were using before doesn’t close automatically. Instead, it runs in the background. Android doesn’t have a “Close” button for apps, but there are three easy ways to close them.

Let’s go through these methods.

Method 1: Closing Apps from the Overview

This method is quick and works on almost any Android version.

Step 1: Open the App Overview

• Swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
• If the overview doesn’t appear right away, keep dragging your finger up until it does.

Step 2: Dismiss the App

• Find the app you want to close by swiping left or right in the overview.
• Once it’s centered on the screen, swipe up on the app to close it.

I usually swipe through and close all apps except the one I’m currently using. This frees up memory and system resources.

Method 2: Closing Apps via Settings

If you prefer a more detailed approach, you can close apps from your phone’s Settings.

Step 1: Open Settings

• Pull down the Notification Shade twice and tap the gear icon to open Settings.

Step-2: Go to App Settings

• Look for the Apps option near the top of the screen and tap it.

Step 3: Find the App You Want to Close

• If the app you’re looking for isn’t listed, tap See all apps to view everything installed on your phone.
• Select the app you want to close.

Step 4: Force Stop the App

Method 3: Closing Apps from the Notification Shade (Android 15 Only)

This method is available only on Android 15 and is specifically for background services.

For example, I use AirDroid to transfer files between my phone and Mac. Even when I’m not actively using AirDroid, it continues running in the background. Closing it with this method is simple.

Step 1: Open the Notification Shade

• Pull down the Notification Shade twice.
• On Android 15, you’ll see a small pill-shaped icon in the bottom-left corner. This shows how many apps are running.

Step 2: Stop the App

• Tap the pill icon to open a list of running apps.
• Tap the Stop button next to the app you want to close.

Which Method Should You Use?

The method you choose depends on your situation:

• For background services: Use the notification shade method (Android 15 required).
• For speed: The app overview is the fastest option.
• For reliability: Go through Settings if you have trouble accessing the app overview.

Why Closing Apps Matters

Closing apps regularly can make a big difference. It improves your phone’s performance by freeing up memory and prevents apps from unnecessarily using resources like your camera or microphone.

While Android does a good job of managing apps on its own, taking control of this process gives you extra peace of mind.

So, the next time you finish using an app, consider closing it. Your phone will thank you.