Boost Your Android Phone's Performance with These 4 Easy Steps

In my role as a tech journalist, I handle a multitude of gadgets throughout the year. While there are always new models to recommend, not everyone is in a rush to upgrade their devices annually. Often, friends and family query me on ways to enhance the speed of existing phones, and now I have practical solutions.

Although my hands-on time with review models is limited, I've gained valuable insights over the years on how to revitalize older devices. No advanced technical knowledge is required, and rooting your device is unnecessary. These straightforward tips are accessible to everyone.

If your Android phone has been lagging lately, the primary remedy is to declutter its storage. If you're unsure of where to begin, follow these simple steps to invigorate your aging Android device.

Step 1: Remove Unnecessary Apps

Smartphones accumulate numerous rarely-used apps over time, leading to needless clutter. You may have installed an app for a quick task, like a QR scanner or photo editor, and forgotten about it. Removing such applications not only frees up space but also optimizes resource management, resulting in a more responsive phone. Navigate to Settings > Storage > Apps, review the list, and delete those you no longer utilize. Alternatively, long-press an app icon, proceed to App Info, and select Uninstall.

Step 2: Free Up Additional Storage

Old devices tend to stash a variety of obsolete files and images. Once unneeded apps are gone, you should tackle stored files and photos clogging your phone's memory.

Access your File Manager to identify and purge redundant items, especially in the Downloads folder, which can be littered with outdated documents. For further space clearing, deal with the cache. Cached data, which helps apps load faster, should be cleared for applications you use sparingly. Access Settings > Storage > App > Clear Cache to enhance storage.

Step 3: Ensure Updates Are Installed

Maintaining your Android device's software with the latest updates is essential for speed and security. To update your operating system, go to Settings > General > System Update. Once your device is up-to-date, visit the Google Play Store to ensure all apps are current, unlocking new features and bolstering security.

Step 4: Modify Animation Settings

Adjusting animation speed through Developer settings can remarkably enhance your device's perceived speed. While somewhat more intricate than previous steps, it can significantly lighten your phone's load.

First, activate Developer options by going to Settings > About phone > tap on Software information > repeatedly tap the Build number until the Developer options are enabled. Then, under the Developer setting's Drawing section, locate Window animation scale and set it to 0.5x. This adjustment will accelerate the appearance of windows and pop-ups.

Tweaking other animation settings, such as the Transition animation scale and Animator duration scale, also quickens the interface as you navigate through apps and home panels. These adjustments not only make daily interactions faster but also breathe new life into your old phone's performance. For an additional fresh touch, consider altering your home screen setup, wallpaper, and other settings.