Android's battery optimization features and aggressive background process management can sometimes prevent apps from running smoothly in the background. This can be frustrating if you rely on apps for notifications, syncing data, or other background tasks. This guide will explore several methods to address this issue, explaining how to keep your apps running in the background, while also highlighting the implications for battery life and security.
Why Do Android Apps Stop Running in the Background?
Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to understand why Android limits background processes. This is primarily to conserve battery life and improve performance. Running numerous apps simultaneously drains the battery rapidly and can lead to system instability. Android's operating system employs various techniques to manage this, including:
- Doze mode: This feature limits network access and background processes when the device is idle and not in use.
- App Standby buckets: Apps are categorized based on usage patterns. Infrequently used apps might be heavily restricted.
- Battery optimization settings: Android allows users to manually restrict background activity for individual apps.
How to Prevent Android From Closing Background Apps
Here are several approaches to keeping your desired apps running in the background, categorized for clarity:
1. Excluding Apps from Battery Optimization
This is often the most effective initial step. The process varies slightly depending on your Android version and device manufacturer, but the general steps are:
- Open Settings: Usually found by pulling down the notification shade and tapping the gear icon.
- Find Battery Settings: Look for an option like "Battery," "Battery optimization," or "Power management."
- Locate Battery Optimization or Background Restrictions: The exact wording differs, but you'll find a list of apps and options to manage their background behavior.
- Select the App: Choose the app you want to keep running in the background.
- Change its Optimization Setting: Select "Don't optimize" or a similar setting that allows unrestricted background activity.
Important Note: While this method allows for better background functionality, it can impact battery life.
2. Managing App Permissions
Some apps require specific permissions to function correctly in the background. Ensure your app has the necessary permissions:
- Open Settings and go to Apps: (Similar to the Battery Optimization steps)
- Select the App: Choose the app you're having issues with.
- Check Permissions: Review the permissions granted to the app. Make sure it has the permissions it needs for background operations (e.g., location, network access, etc.).
3. Using Foreground Services (For Developers)
For developers, implementing a foreground service is a more robust method to ensure an app continues running in the background. Foreground services display a persistent notification to the user, indicating that the app is actively working. This method is more resource-intensive and should be used only when absolutely necessary.
4. Restarting the App
Sometimes, a simple app restart can resolve minor background process issues. Simply close the app and then reopen it.
5. Checking for App Updates
Ensure your apps are up-to-date. Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can resolve background process problems.
Addressing Specific Concerns
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about keeping apps running in the background:
How can I keep my music playing in the background?
Most music players are designed to function in the background. Ensure the app has the necessary permissions and is excluded from battery optimization. If the music stops unexpectedly, try restarting the app or checking your phone's battery settings.
Why does my messaging app not receive notifications?
Check the app's notification settings within the app itself and also in your Android's notification settings. Ensure that notifications are enabled and that the app is not restricted from background activity.
Can I force apps to run in the background without affecting my battery?
It's a trade-off. Allowing unrestricted background activity will inevitably impact your battery life. Finding a balance between app functionality and battery conservation is key. Prioritize apps that genuinely require background operation and carefully manage permissions and battery optimization settings for others.
By understanding Android's background process management and implementing the techniques outlined above, you can effectively manage which apps run in the background, optimizing both functionality and battery life. Remember to always prioritize security and be mindful of the permissions you grant to apps.
