Many customers still experience app slowdown or crashes even though newer Android phones have RAM of at least 8GB, which is more than many laptops. This isn't because there isn't enough memory; rather, it's because some programs use too many system resources, which raises memory utilization and affects phone performance. Limiting app memory utilization and optimizing the system are crucial to resolving this issue. Phonefix post will outline a number of practical fixes for users' app latency and crash problems.
I. Root Your Phone and Modify Memory Settings
On Android, many system files and configuration settings are protected, preventing users from modifying them. To make in-depth system optimizations, especially adjusting the memory usage of apps, we need to gain root access. Root access allows for more extensive control and optimization of the system.
Step 1: Gain Root Access
1. Preparation: Before rooting your phone, it’s recommended to back up important data (such as contacts and photos) as the rooting process may result in data loss. Make sure your phone’s battery is sufficiently charged—ideally, over 80%.
2. Choose a Rooting Tool: Common Android rooting tools include Magisk APP, KingRoot, etc. You should choose a suitable tool based on your phone’s model and system version. Magisk is the most popular rooting tool, as it supports both system and user-level root and retains OTA (Over-The-Air) update functionality after installation.
3. Root Process: Follow the prompts of your chosen rooting tool to root your device. The process is generally simple, but it carries some risk, so proceed with caution. If you’re unsure how to root, it’s recommended to consult relevant tutorials or seek help from a professional.
Step 2: Modify the /system/build.prop File
Once you have root access, you can modify system configuration files to optimize memory management. The build.prop file is an important configuration file in Android, containing performance settings for the system. By modifying this file, you can control the memory usage limits for apps to prevent excessive resource consumption.
1. Open the /system/build.prop File: Use a file manager or terminal emulator to access the /system directory and locate the build.prop file. You’ll need root access to edit this file.
2. Modify Memory Settings: In the build.prop file, find the following three lines:
dalvik.vm.heapstartsize=8m;
dalvik.vm.heapgrowthlimit=512m;
dalvik.vm.heapsize=512m;
These settings control the memory usage of apps, with the following meanings:
· heapstartsize: Initial memory size when the app starts.
· heapgrowthlimit: The limit on how much memory the app can grow.
· heapsize: The maximum memory the app can use.
3. Reduce Memory Values: To limit the app’s memory usage and prevent it from occupying too many resources, adjust these parameters to smaller values. For example, change heapgrowthlimit and heapsize to 100MB. The modified configuration should look like:
dalvik.vm.heapstartsize=8m;
dalvik.vm.heapgrowthlimit=100m;
dalvik.vm.heapsize=100m;
With this configuration, the app’s memory usage will be limited to a smaller range, reducing system resource consumption and minimizing lag and crashes.
4. Save and Restart the Phone: After making the changes, save the file and restart your phone for the changes to take effect. After rebooting, the app’s memory usage will be restricted, and the system performance should improve.
Step 3: Modify Low Memory Management Settings
In addition to limiting app memory usage, you can further optimize system performance by adjusting the system’s low-memory management strategy. Android automatically terminates some background processes to free up memory when usage approaches saturation. By modifying the system’s low-memory management parameters, you can ensure more efficient memory management and prevent excessive processes from consuming too many resources.
1. Modify the minfree Parameter: Use a terminal emulator to enter the following commands to adjust the threshold for low-memory management:
"chmod 666 /sys/module/lowmemorykiller/parameters/minfree
chown root /sys/module/lowmemorykiller/parameters/minfree
echo '262144,262144,262144,262144,262144,262144' > /sys/module/lowmemorykiller/parameters/minfree"
These commands adjust the memory cleaning trigger conditions, allowing the system to terminate memory-hungry apps when memory usage is close to saturation, thereby freeing up more memory.
2. Verify the Effect: After executing these commands, restart your phone and observe the app’s performance. You’ll notice that the system will automatically clean unnecessary background processes during low memory situations, keeping the phone running smoothly.
Note: If the system crashes or files are accidentally modified while adjusting low memory parameters, using a Phone data cable to connect to a computer for system recovery is also an effective repair method. Technicians can use ADB commands in USB debugging mode to restore default parameters or re-flash the system kernel file, thereby fixing low memory management related errors.
II. Clear Cache and Data
In addition to limiting memory usage, clearing app cache and data is an important step in resolving app lag or crashing issues. Over time, many apps accumulate large amounts of cache and temporary data, which take up storage space and may cause app-related issues.
Step 1: Clear App Cache
1. Go to Settings > Apps and select the app you want to clear.
2. Tap Storage > Clear Cache to remove the app’s cached data.
3. Clearing the cache often improves app startup speed and smoothness.
Step 2: Clear App Data
If clearing the cache doesn’t resolve the issue, try clearing the app’s data. Please note that clearing data will delete all settings and saved information for the app, similar to reinstalling it.
1. Go to Settings > Apps and select the app you want to clear.
2. Tap Storage > Clear Data.
Step 3: Regularly Clear System Cache
In addition to app cache, you can also clear system cache. System cache consists of temporary files used by the Android system to speed up operations. Clearing these caches can free up storage and improve system performance.
1. Go to Settings > Storage > Cached Data.
2. Tap Clear Cache to remove system cache.
III. Keep Your System and Apps Updated
Outdated systems or applications may have known performance issues and vulnerabilities. These problems can be resolved by regularly updating the operating system and applications using the SD Maid tool.
1. Update the Operating System: Go to Settings > System > Software Update to update your system. Make sure your phone is always running the latest version.
2. Update Apps: Open the Google Play Store, check for updates for your apps, and install them promptly.
IV. Uninstall Unnecessary Apps
Some unused apps running in the background can also consume memory and resources, affecting the smoothness of your phone. Regularly uninstalling apps you no longer use can reduce background processes and memory usage, improving performance.
1. Go to Settings > Apps and select the unnecessary app.
2. Tap Uninstall to remove it.
V. Perform a Factory Reset
If none of the above methods resolve the issue, the last resort is to perform a factory reset. This will erase all data on your phone and return it to its original state. A factory reset can fix deep system-level issues.
1. Go to Settings > System > Reset > Factory Data Reset.
2. Follow the prompts to complete the reset.
Note: A factory reset will delete all data on your phone. Make sure to back up important files beforehand.
Android phones frequently encounter app slowdown and crashes during regular use, even with plenty of memory. China Phonefix provides a range of expert accessories and repair tools, such as premium touchscreen IC test modules and extension cables, to help you solve issues more quickly during optimization if you need help enhancing phone performance or replacing relevant parts. We hope that these techniques will help you enhance your Android phone's user experience by resolving latency and crash issues.
