Hand holding an Android smartphone
Tech & Auto
12 Things You Should Immediately Stop Doing With Your Android Phone
By ZACH SCHEEPERS
Ignoring Updates
Android OS releases software updates that include new features and patches for security issues. However, these helpful updates often go ignored.
To see if you have an update available, go into Settings and find System. Afterward, tap System Update, then Install to begin the process.
Processes
While Android devices can handle multiple apps simultaneously, excessive background processes can impact battery life, memory consumption, and performance.
You can check what apps are running by going into Settings, Battery, and then Battery Usage. Afterward, go into Apps to Force Stop the app you want to close.
Excessive Widgets
While widgets are a convenient way to access information, having too many can lead to a cluttered interface and difficulty navigating the home screen.
To remove them, tap and hold on the widget until a small menu appears, then tap the Remove option. You could also drag the widget into a Remove Bin when the menu appears.
Storage Space
Eventually, your Android device will run out of memory. In addition to being unable to download new apps, your device’s performance will decline.
You can see how much is left by going into Settings, Device Care or About Device, then Storage. You can free up space by deleting unused apps and unnecessary media.
Unknown Sources
Android allows users to download apps from sources other than the Google Play Store. However, this comes with a chance of downloading unsafe software.
They can contain harmful software, which opens users to cybercriminal attacks such as spyware. To delete them, go into Settings, Apps, select the app, and press Uninstall.