The performance of Android OS, like any computing system, can decline over time. Designed for speed and mobility, these systems still offer full access despite being inherently ‘lighter’. Craving optimal functionality? It’s time for maintenance. We offer you tips for elevating user experience.
Practical Tips for Enhancing Android Usability
#1 Disable Unnecessary Apps
In Android’s Ice Cream Sandwich edition, the ‘Performance Assistant’ feature made its debut. Its primary function is to let users switch off unnecessary applications, ensuring that they don’t run in the background and hog resources. It’s important to distinguish between disabling and uninstalling an app. When you uninstall an app, its files are permanently erased from your device. Disabling an app, however, merely hides it from your home screen and app drawer; no files are actually removed — it’s like putting the app into hibernation. Should you find yourself in need of these apps again, they’re easily reactivated for immediate use.
#2 Get Rid of Ads on Your Device
If you see ads on your home screen, your device is most likely infected. However, there is enough advertising in the default state, it is almost everywhere. Do you know how to stop pop-up ads on Android phones? Here’s a convenient way how to stop pop-up ads on Android phones – use a VPN. But we need not just a VPN, but VeePN, which has an ad-blocking function. The main advantage is that this VPN blocks ads everywhere: in the browser, applications, and even in system menus, something MIUI often suffers from.
#3 Use a High-Speed Memory Card
Your phone’s storage capabilities hinge on the memory card it utilizes. Those with phones sporting minimal internal storage can experience a significant boost by incorporating memory cards that offer substantial capacity. It’s not just about an increase in storage; speed enhancements are part of the package. Choose from a range of memory card sizes, starting as low as 2GB and soaring up to 32GB, all engineered to facilitate brisk read/write processes. For an Android phone that operates at peak performance, memory cards rated Class 6 or Class 10 are the smart choice.
#4 Avoid Using Live Wallpapers
While live wallpapers add a touch of dynamism to your device, they do come with a cost — hindering your Android’s performance. These animated backgrounds require continuous CPU usage to operate, draining your battery each time you access your phone. As a result, alongside other concurrently running applications, live wallpapers contribute to rapid battery depletion.
Furthermore, live wallpapers demand constant illumination and movement from your device’s display, a process that necessitates persistent processor activity. For users looking to optimize their Android devices, a simple yet effective tweak would be to disable such animations, which could lead to noticeable enhancements in speed and overall functionality.
#5 Turn Off Animations
Android devices feature visual effects, such as the miniaturization of apps when you exit them, adding that premium touch. However, these very animations might compromise your device’s speed.
Want a quicker Android experience? Disable those animations with ease:
- Begin by opening your device’s ‘Settings.’
- Next, navigate to ‘Accessibility’ – you’ll find it as you scroll.
- Once there, proceed to ‘Text and display.’
- Switch the ‘Remove animations’ setting to off.
#6 Consider Installing A Custom ROM
Inevitably, mobile phones encounter what is known as the end-of-support (EOS) phase. Once your Android enters this phase, manufacturers no longer provide update support, be it for the operating system or security. Despite that, accessing the newest Android version remains possible.
Custom ROMs become particularly viable when your device hits EOS. The digital realm boasts a plethora of ROMs engineered for enhanced performance. LineageOS and Pixel Experience stand as notable examples, not to mention ParanoidAndroid – a personal favorite – which ranks highly among them. Just download them from the official website and use a free VPN to protect yourself from scammers. These are the minimum requirements that must be met when downloading this type of software.
#7 Disable Pre-installed Applications
Rarely do users engage with pre-installed apps on many smartphones, particularly on less expensive, ad-supported models. These devices tend to promote their own services, which typically remain untouched, in favor of more popular options chosen by users. Notable among these neglected apps are dedicated theme shops, media players, and security software.
The deletion of these apps is often blocked by manufacturers. However, there is a workaround. Disabling is an option provided, which translates to rendering the apps inactive. They can no longer launch, either by direct user interaction or any background system operations. This is manageable through the device settings. To be specific, navigate to Settings > Apps > Installed apps. In some instances, activating the Show system app setting might be necessary.
Conclusion
Your smartphone may not work perfectly out of the box, but you can personalize it. Your choice is to use the standard settings or optimize the device for yourself. The tips listed will help you create ideal conditions for convenient and productive use of your smartphone.