How to Stop Apps From Running in Background on Android (100% Working Guide 2025)
Is your Android phone heating up, draining battery fast, or lagging during normal use? One of the biggest reasons is apps running silently in the background. These apps continue to use RAM, data, and battery even when you are not using them.
The good news is — you can completely stop background apps using built-in Android settings. No third-party apps are required. This guide works for Android 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14.
Why Do Apps Run in the Background?
- To send real-time notifications
- To sync data automatically (email, media, files)
- To update feeds, ads and recommendations
- To track location continuously
- To upload files in the background
While some apps need background access, many apps overuse it — which causes slow performance and battery drain.
Signs That Too Many Apps Are Running in the Background
- Battery draining 2–3× faster
- Phone heating even without gaming
- Lag during scrolling or gaming
- High RAM usage
- Mobile data used automatically
Method 1: Stop Background Activity from App Settings
This is the easiest and safest method:
- Open Settings
- Tap Apps
- Select the app
- Tap Battery
- Select Restricted / Don’t Allow Background Activity
Apps like Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube, and Instagram consume the most battery — restrict them first.
Method 2: Force Stop Apps Running Right Now
- Open Settings
- Go to Apps
- Select the app
- Press Force Stop
This closes the app instantly. It will restart only when you open it again.
Method 3: Disable Auto-Start / Auto-Launch
Some apps run automatically after reboot or unlocking the phone.
- Open Settings
- Search Auto-start / Auto-launch
- Turn OFF for unnecessary apps
Method 4: Stop Background Data Usage
This prevents apps from consuming mobile data silently.
- Go to Settings
- Tap Network & Internet
- Choose Data Usage
- Select the app
- Disable Background Data
Method 5: Turn On Battery Saver Mode
Battery Saver restricts background processes automatically.
- Open Settings
- Tap Battery
- Enable Battery Saver / Power Saving Mode
Method 6: Disable Auto-Sync for Accounts
- Open Settings
- Go to Accounts
- Turn off Auto-Sync
Method 7: Uninstall or Disable Unused Apps
Many pre-installed apps waste battery continuously.
- Open Settings
- Tap Apps
- Sort by Battery / Data Usage
- Uninstall or Disable unused apps
Apps That Consume the Most Battery
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, X |
| Streaming | YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Prime |
| Shopping | Flipkart, Myntra, Meesho |
| Cloud Sync | Google Drive, Dropbox |
| Gaming | BGMI, PUBG, Free Fire |
Benefits After Stopping Background Apps
- 25–50% more battery backup
- Reduced heating
- Faster performance in all apps
- More free RAM for gaming
- Lower mobile data usage
Apps You Should NOT Restrict
To avoid missing important alerts, do not restrict:
- WhatsApp / Telegram
- Phone & Contacts
- Google Messages
- Payment apps (Google Pay, PhonePe)
Final Words
Stopping background apps is the simplest way to improve battery life and performance on Android. Use settings like Restricted background activity, Auto-start off, and Battery Saver to get instant results.
Your phone will run cooler, faster, and smoother — without any third-party cleaner apps.
