iPhone

How to Check Apps Running in Background on iPhone

December 7, 2024

Ever wondered why your iPhone’s battery drains so quickly or why it feels sluggish? It probably has to do with apps running in the background.

Checking these apps is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and extending battery life. You might be surprised to learn how many applications continue operating without your knowledge, consuming resources and battery power.

In this guide, you’ll discover how to check apps running in the background on your iPhone. Master the settings and features designed to monitor and manage background activity.

Understand the role of the App Switcher and Battery Health features, get hands-on tips to control Background App Refresh, and learn to troubleshoot effectively. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to optimize your device, improve system performance, and ensure iPhone battery health.

Stay tuned for practical advice on mobile device maintenance and efficient resource management. Whether you’re dealing with an iPhone 13, iPhone XR, or the latest iOS 15, these steps will help you keep your Apple device running smoothly.

How to Check Apps Running in Background on iPhone: Quick Workflow

Accessing the App Switcher

For iPhones without a Home Button:
- Swipe Up: Place your finger at the bottom edge of the screen and swipe up until you reach the middle of the screen. This will bring up the App Switcher, displaying all open apps.
- Select Apps: Scroll left or right to view all currently running applications.
For iPhones with a Home Button:
- Double-Click Home Button: Press the Home button twice quickly to access the App Switcher.

Closing Background Apps

To close an app, swipe it up and off the screen. This action will fully exit the application.

Managing Background App Refresh

Open Settings: Go to your iPhone’s Settings.
Select General: Scroll down and tap on “General.”
Background App Refresh: Tap on “Background App Refresh” to view a list of apps that can refresh their content while not actively in use.
Toggle Off: Disable this feature for specific apps by toggling them off to save battery life and improve performance.

By following these steps, you can effectively monitor and manage background applications on your iPhone, enhancing both performance and battery life.

Accessing and Navigating Open Apps

maxresdefault How to Check Apps Running in Background on iPhone

Using App Switcher Features on iPhones

For iPhones with Face ID: Swiping Techniques for App Switching

To navigate open apps on iPhones with Face ID, swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen and pause in the middle for the App Switcher to appear. This interface shows a carousel of recently opened apps. Swipe left or right to browse through the apps. To switch to an open app, just tap on it in the carousel.

For iPhones with Home Button: Using Double-Click for Access

For iPhones equipped with a Home Button, accessing the App Switcher involves double-clicking the Home Button. This action brings up the App Switcher screen where you can view and switch between open apps. Swipe left or right through the open apps and tap on the one you wish to use.

Accessing Recently Used Apps on Other Devices

Android devices typically use navigation gestures for managing open apps. Swiping up from the bottom of the screen and holding midway will open the recent apps view. In this view, you can swipe left or right to explore open apps and tap to open any app from this menu.

Device-Specific Adjustments

Samsung Galaxy: On Samsung Galaxy devices, swipe up from the home screen and hold to access recent apps. Alternatively, use the Recents button if your device has navigation buttons.

Google Pixel: For Google Pixel devices, swipe up from the bottom and hold. This gesture opens the recent apps view. Navigation is seamless through swiping and tapping on the desired app.

Closing and Switching Between Running Apps

Methods for Switching Between Apps

Quick Swipe Techniques for iPhones

Swiping between apps on iPhones is a cinch. For newer models, swipe up from the bottom edge and pause to reveal the App Switcher. It’s smooth and quick. From here, swipe left or right to navigate through your open apps. Tap on any app thumbnail to open it.

For older models with a Home Button, double-click the Home Button. The App Switcher appears instantly. Swipe left or right to find the app you want. Tap it. Done.

Android? Not a problem. Swipe up from the bottom and hold for a split second. The Recent Apps view pops up. It’s a visual feast of your recently used apps. Swipe left or right through them. Tap the one you need next.

Closing Apps to Optimize Device Performance

Steps for Force Closing Apps on iOS and Android

On iOS, closing an app is just as straightforward. Open the App Switcher, then swipe up on the app’s thumbnail. It’s gone from your active list.

For Android, open the Recent Apps view. Find the app you want to close. Swipe it off the screen. Simple.

When to Close Apps for Performance Benefits

Not every situation calls for closing apps. Focus on shutting down apps when:

You notice battery drain
Your device feels sluggish
Certain apps are misbehaving

Understanding Background App Refresh and Background Data Usage

Overview of Background Refresh on iPhones

Background App Refresh keeps your apps updated even when they’re not open. This feature can consume data and battery. Navigate to Settings > General > Background App Refresh. You can turn it off for all apps or pick and choose. Useful for apps like Email and Social Media.

Background Data Usage on Android Devices

Android handles things a bit differently. Apps use background data to stay updated. To manage this, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage. Select an app, then disable Background Data to save on data and battery life.

Managing Background App Refresh to Conserve Data and Battery

What is Background App Refresh?

Background App Refresh allows apps to update content even when they’re not in use. This feature exists across both iOS and Android platforms.

On iPhones, you’ll find this option in Settings > General > Background App Refresh. It updates apps like Email and Social Media with fresh data.

On Android devices, this is simply known as background data. Apps continuously pull in updates—think instant notifications and auto-syncing.

How Background Apps Impact Data Consumption

Common Data-Heavy Background Processes

Some apps are notorious for consuming data in the background. Streaming services, weather apps, and social media platforms are just a few culprits.

Email clients constantly check for new messages, while social media notifications give you real-time updates. These processes eat into your data plan.

Managing Data Usage Limits through App Settings

You can control this through app settings. On iPhones, toggle off Background App Refresh for selected apps in Settings.

On Android, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage. Select an app, and switch off Background Data. This helps manage your data usage effectively.

Reducing Battery Drain from Background Activity

Effects of Background Apps on Battery Life

Background apps drain battery life. Frequent checks for updates, real-time notifications, and syncing eat into your battery.

Customizing Settings Based on Battery Usage Needs

Tailor your settings for battery preservation. On iPhone, head to Settings > Battery to review usage. For Android, navigate to Settings > Battery > Battery Usage. Disable background activity for apps that consume excessive power.

Step-by-Step Guide to Turning Off Background App Refresh

Disabling Background App Refresh on iPhone and iPad

Accessing Settings and Locating Background App Refresh

Find the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad. Open it. Scroll down to General. Tap it. Now, look for Background App Refresh. Tap this option. You’re in the right place.

Turning Off Background App Refresh for All Apps

Want to turn off Background App Refresh for all apps? In the Background App Refresh menu, tap Background App Refresh again at the top. Select Off. Simple, effective.

Selecting Specific Apps for Background Refresh on iOS

Choosing Important Apps to Keep Updated

So, not every app needs Background App Refresh. In Settings > General > Background App Refresh, you’ll see a list of apps with toggle switches. Decide which apps are essential. Maybe it’s your Email. Leave them on.

Disabling Refresh for Non-Essential Apps

Non-essential apps? Turn them off. Slide their toggle switches to the left, and cut the unnecessary refresh. Save data, save battery.

Managing Background Data Usage on Android

Disabling Background Data for Individual Apps

Open Settings. Go to Network & Internet and then Data Usage. Select the app you want to manage. Toggle off Background Data. Done.

Using Data Saver Modes on Devices Like Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel

Want deeper controls? Use Data Saver modes. On Samsung Galaxy devices, go to Settings > Connections > Data Usage. Activate Data Saver. For Google Pixel, Settings > Network & Internet > Data Saver. Toggle it on.

Viewing and Understanding Battery Usage Statistics

Accessing Battery Usage Insights on iPhones

Viewing Battery Usage by App

Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Scroll down and tap Battery. You’re now looking at the Battery usage section.

Tap on Battery Usage by App to see which apps are consuming your power. This shows you a percentage breakdown of app usage.

Battery Graphs and Usage Data Interpretation

In this same Battery section, you’ll find graphs displaying your battery level over time. Check the Last 24 Hours and Last 10 Days tabs to get insight into patterns.

Analyze the spikes and dips in the graphs. Higher peaks usually indicate apps or activities that drain your battery quickly. Match these with the corresponding time stamps and app names.

Reviewing Battery Usage on Android Devices

Differences in Data Display between iOS and Android

On Android, open Settings. Go to Battery. Battery usage details are organized differently compared to iOS.

Here, you’ll see a list of apps with their battery consumption percentages. One difference: Android may group some system activities together, making it slightly less granular.

Interpreting Battery Level and Activity Graphs on Android

The Battery section on Android also displays graphs. Tap Battery Use or Battery Usage. These graphs reveal battery consumption trends over time.

Check for high-usage periods. Like with iOS, match the timeline with specific apps or processes.

Using Battery Statistics to Guide Usage Choices

Identifying Apps with High Battery Usage

Both iOS and Android offer insights into which apps are power hogs. Look for apps that appear consistently at the top of the list. Streaming services, games, and social media apps often use more power.

Making Informed Decisions on Usage Habits

Once you’ve identified these apps, make choices to optimize battery life. Limit your use of high-drain apps when away from a charger. Adjust settings to reduce their power consumption, like lowering screen brightness or disabling background refresh.

Tips to Reduce Battery Usage for Power-Intensive Apps

Optimizing Battery Usage in Frequently Used Apps

Identifying Power-Intensive Apps

Certain apps are notorious battery hogs. Games with high graphics, streaming services like Netflix and YouTube, and social media apps frequently appear on this list. Recognizing these power-intensive apps is your first step.

Using Alternatives for Reduced Battery Impact

Alternatives can save you. Instead of streaming video content, consider downloading episodes for offline viewing. Use simpler, less resource-hungry apps when possible. For instance, it’s often more efficient to check your email using a lightweight email client rather than a full-featured service loaded with bells and whistles.

Restricting Background Activity for Selected Apps

Steps to Restrict Apps with High Background Activity

Head to your device’s settings. For iPhones, go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh. Turn off refresh for apps not needing constant updates. On Android, navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage, and select each app to disable Background Data.

This action ensures the app consumes fewer resources when not in active use.

Benefits of Restricting Background Data Access

Cutting off background data brings several benefits. Your battery lasts longer, the system performance improves, and you’re less likely to experience random battery drains midway through your day. Knowing how to check apps running in the background on iPhone is essential for maintaining control over your device’s resources.

Leveraging Device Settings to Maximize Battery Life

Using Low Power Mode on iPhones

Features and Functions of Low Power Mode

When you enable Low Power Mode on your iPhone, multiple background activities get reduced or disabled. Email fetching, background app refresh, and automatic downloads drop off the radar. Your brightness dims, and some visual effects halt.

It’s a straightforward way to extend the battery life by cutting down on non-essential operations.

Recommended Situations for Enabling Low Power Mode

Activate Low Power Mode when your battery percentage hits the danger zone—think 20% or less. Engaging it on the way to an important meeting or when your charger is miles away can be life-saving.

Regular use in these situations keeps your device running longer, ensuring you’re not left in the dark when it matters.

Utilizing Battery Saver and Data Saver on Android

Features of Battery Saver Modes on Android Devices

Battery Saver on Android devices isn’t shy about making changes. It limits background activity, reduces brightness, and throttles performance to keep your device alive. Apps don’t run in the background unless you open them. Notifications might be delayed, giving you more uptime as the cost.

Benefits and Limitations of Data Saver on Android

Alongside Battery Saver, Data Saver is another tool in your arsenal. This feature limits background data, restricting apps from consuming cellular data unless they’re open on your screen.

It shines in scenarios where you’re dealing with limited data allowance or trying to conserve battery. However, its rigid nature means some background app functionalities, like instant notifications, might not be as timely.

FAQ on How To Check Apps Running In The Background On iPhone

How do I see which apps are running in the background on my iPhone?

To check this, double-click the Home button (or swipe up from the bottom if you have a newer model). This opens the App Switcher. Here, you can see all currently active apps. Scroll through to see which ones you’re using but haven’t fully closed.

How can I manage apps running in the background to save battery?

Navigate to Settings > General > Background App Refresh. Here, you can toggle off the apps you don’t need updating in the background. Turning off Background App Refresh for apps you seldom use can help conserve battery life and optimize iPhone performance.

Do background apps affect iPhone performance?

Yes. Apps running in the background consume resources like CPU and RAM, which can slow down your device. Use the iPhone Battery Health tool to identify battery-hungry apps. Managing these effectively helps ensure smooth iPhone performance and longer battery life.

Can I stop apps from running in the background on my iPhone?

Absolutely. You can force-close apps by swiping up on them in the App Switcher. For a more permanent solution, turn off Background App Refresh in Settings. You can also navigate to Settings > Battery to monitor which apps drain your battery the most.

What is Background App Refresh, and how does it affect my iPhone?

Background App Refresh allows apps to update their content in the background. While convenient, it can quickly drain your battery. Disabling it for apps not crucial to your daily use can keep your iPhone battery health intact and prolong overall device performance.

Why is my iPhone battery draining so fast?

Background apps are often the culprits. They’re constantly refreshing and using up resources. Head to Settings > Battery to see a detailed report of which apps are consuming the most power. Disable Background App Refresh for these to conserve energy.

How do I check iPhone battery usage by app?

Go to Settings > Battery. Here, you’ll see a detailed breakdown of your battery usage per app over the last 24 hours or 10 days. This can help you pinpoint battery-draining apps and take necessary action, like disabling Background App Refresh or force-closing them.

What happens if I close all my background apps on iPhone?

Closing all background apps can free up memory and CPU resources, potentially speeding up your device. Simply swipe up on each app in the App Switcher. However, note that frequently used apps might take longer to reload the next time you open them.

Is it necessary to close background apps on iPhone regularly?

Not necessarily. iOS is designed to manage background apps efficiently. However, if you notice a significant slowdown or battery drain, it’s beneficial to manually close some apps. Use the App Switcher and force-quit apps by swiping them up off the screen.

What tools can I use to monitor app background activity on iPhone?

Besides the native Settings options for Background App Refresh and Battery, third-party apps from the App Store can provide detailed analytics on app activity and resource consumption. Using these, you can manage and monitor your iPhone’s system performance more effectively.

Conclusion

Understanding how to check apps running in the background on iPhone is essential for maintaining your device’s performance and battery life. Accessing the App Switcher or navigating through the Settings and Battery options allows you to see which applications drain your resources.

Monitoring Background App Refresh can be crucial. This feature updates app content in the background, negatively impacting battery health if not managed. To conserve energy, always disable this for non-essential applications.

Force-closing apps via the App Switcher or managing them through Settings > General > Background App Refresh ensures better iPhone performance. Additionally, checking battery usage in Settings > Battery provides insights into which apps consume the most power, aiding in troubleshooting and optimization.

By grasping these mechanisms, you can enhance iPhone performance, boost battery life, and ensure a smoother user experience. Implementing these steps will help you manage your device efficiently and keep it running effectively.

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Bogdan Sandu

Bogdan is a seasoned web designer and tech strategist, with a keen eye on emerging industry trends.

With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.

A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.