If your Android phone feels slower than usual, the culprit is often an app or two running in the background. Many apps keep working even when you’re not using them. They sync data, send notifications, and consume memory, all of which can drag down performance. Social media apps, games, and poorly optimized utilities are the usual suspects.

Every app you install takes up space and uses your phone’s RAM. When too many apps run at once, your phone struggles to keep up, leading to lag, slow app launches, or even crashes. Some apps also use background services that constantly access the internet or your location, putting extra pressure on the processor and battery.

Another issue is app updates. Over time, newer versions can become heavier and less efficient on older devices. Cache buildup is another hidden slowdown factor. Cached files are meant to help apps load faster, but too much of it can clog up your phone’s storage.

To fix this, regularly clear cache, delete apps you rarely use, and check which apps are consuming the most memory and battery in your settings. Restarting your phone once in a while can also refresh performance. Keeping your device updated helps too, since system updates often include performance improvements.

A few smart habits can go a long way in keeping your Android phone running fast and smooth.