Is Your Android Phone Feeling Sluggish? Speed It Up With These Tweaks
Not so fun fact: your phone can be dirtier than a toilet seat, so do yourself a favor and get into a consistent cleaning routine.
With that out of the way, the most substantial phone tweaks will happen in app and system settings. To get it feeling like new again, check out these tips for decluttering and reorganizing your Android phone.
For more, check out our Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy S25 Plus reviews.
Take a few minutes to go through your home screen or app drawer and delete any and all apps you no longer use. Not only do those apps take up precious storage, but they potentially have access to the personal information or permissions you approved when the app was first launched.
How you go about deleting an app can vary based on who makes your device, but I covered all the bases in this post. Give it a read if you don't see an uninstall option after long-pressing on the app's icon.
After removing any old apps, free up more storage by going through the files saved on your Android phone. It's far too easy to forget about all of the files you've randomly downloaded -- like the takeout menu of the new place down the road or a GIF a friend sent. And those files add up. The quickest and easiest way to manage your phone's storage is to use the Files app that comes preinstalled.
Actually, some phones use a variation of that same app. On Samsung, for example, it's called My Files. On the Pixel lineup, it's just Files. On the OnePlus 10 Pro, it's File Manager -- you get the point.
I recommend opening the app drawer on your phone and reaching for "files." Odds are that will reveal whatever your phone-maker calls the app.
Start with checking the Downloads folder, where you can either delete the files you no longer want or move them somewhere like Google Drive.
Most file apps will also reveal any large files that are saved on your device. For instance, the OnePlus 10 Pro's File Manager app has a dedicated section in the app for files that are taking up a lot of space.
One of the best parts of Android is how much you can customize the entire look of your phone. From installing app icon packs to completely replacing the launcher your phone uses, there are plenty of options to personalize your phone.
While you can definitely jump into tweaking launchers and installing app icons, start by digging into the home screen settings your phone already provides. I do this once in a while and it's surprising how subtle tweaks to aspects like app layout can make it feel like an entirely new phone.
Long-press on a blank area of your home screen, then select Home settings (or some variation of that). That will open the options for your home screen, where you can customize various settings.
Settings like the size of the app grid. It may seem like a small change to go from a grid of 4x5 apps to 5x5, but that extra column can make a big difference (the same can be said about shrinking the grid).
This is also where you'll find settings for things like swiping down on the home screen to view notifications instead of having to swipe from the top of the screen.
Go through the respective settings your phone has and experiment with your home screen setup.
Speaking of settings, now is a good time to go through and change any settings that have been annoying you. I have a roundup of settings you'll want to change and customize on any Android phone to get the most out of it.
For example, turning on dark mode not only makes the app look better, but it saves battery life. And yes, I even show you how to stop app icons from automatically appearing on your home screen.
Before you take a break, do yourself and your Android phone one last favor -- double-check your privacy settings.
Open the Settings app then tap Privacy > Permissions Manager. Go through each category to see which apps currently have access to which treasure trove of your personal data. Find an app you don't want to have access to your location? Turn it off. The same goes for contacts, calendar or camera.
It doesn't take long to go through each section, and even if it did, it's well worth the effort.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
28 minutes ago
- Forbes
Apple iPhone 17 Air: All The Super-Slim iPhone Leaks
When Apple reveals the iPhone 17 series, it looks like one mainstay, the Plus version of the regular phone, will have been canceled and replaced with something completely different, as Monty Python used to say. This super-slim addition, nicknamed iPhone 17 Air, has raised the most excitement. Here's what we know so far. iPhone 17 Air Design Above all, it's very thin, perhaps as thin as 5.5mm thick from front to back, which is a lot less than the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max at 8.25mm, for instance. This thickness will mean it's even thinner than the recently released, and reportedly very popular Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge (5.8mm). It would also be the thinnest iPhone ever, though please note the camera bump would make the phone 9.5mm thick where the lenses sit. It will also look unlike any other iPhone from the back, thanks to just one camera but a horizontal camera panel stretching the width of the phone. Fewer cameras means more room for the one thing it will need the most: battery. It seems it will have a different look in other ways, too. It's possible that Apple will change the metal finish on the iPhone 17 Pro from titanium to aluminum, and reserve titanium for the iPhone 17 Air: the combination of stiffness and light weight could be a perfect match for a phone this thin. And colors will be different from the 17 and 17 Pro ranges, and rumors suggest that along with black there'll be a white finish that is different from the iPhone 17. Plus either one or two more shades: light gold and light blue are considered most likely. The display is likely to have 120Hz refresh rate. iPhone 17 Air Camera Since the main camera on the iPhone 16 is a 48-megapixel model, this is likely to be the same on the iPhone 17 Air. This resolution also allows Apple to describe it as two cameras in one: cropping in to the central 12 megapixels of the sensor creates a 2x zoom equivalent. The front camera could be upgraded from the current 12-megapixel resolution found on current iPhones. iPhone 17 Air Processor Apple is working on two processors: A19 for the iPhone 17 and A19 Pro for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. For the Air, some reports say Apple will use the A19 Pro but with one fewer GPU core. iPhone 17 Battery This could be the phone's Achilles' heel. Rumors say it won't last as long as other iPhones so users will be relying on power efficiencies in the new processors plus new adaptive battery software in iOS 26.
Time Business News
an hour ago
- Time Business News
Mobile Audio Editing for Business Podcasts with AudioLab
Podcasts have become one of the most effective ways for businesses to connect with their audience. From sharing industry insights to telling brand stories, podcasting offers a direct and personal communication channel. But while the concept of creating a podcast sounds simple, the production side has traditionally been a challenge. Editing often required expensive desktop software, technical skills, and a dedicated studio setup. Now, with mobile audio editing tools like AudioLab – music editor app, businesses can produce professional-quality podcasts using just a smartphone. In recent years, podcasts have moved from being a niche hobby to a mainstream business tool. Companies are using them for thought leadership, customer education, employee engagement, and marketing campaigns. According to industry reports, more than half of business decision-makers listen to podcasts regularly. For many brands, a podcast is a cost-effective way to build credibility and maintain ongoing conversations with their audience. However, as the number of podcasts has grown, so have listener expectations. Audiences now expect clear audio, well-edited episodes, and a polished listening experience. Poor sound quality can undermine the message and make even valuable content less appealing. Traditionally, podcast editing meant recording audio, transferring files to a computer, and using complex software like Audacity or Adobe Audition. This process could be time-consuming and required access to equipment and a quiet editing environment. Mobile audio editing tools have removed these barriers. With an app like AudioLab, you can record, edit, and publish directly from your phone. This flexibility is especially valuable for business teams that need to produce content quickly or work remotely. Mobile tools also mean businesses are no longer tied to a studio schedule. A marketing manager can record an interview at an event, clean up the audio on the spot, and have the episode ready for publishing the same day. This speed can be a competitive advantage in industries where timely insights matter. AudioLab is a versatile audio editing app for Android that combines an easy-to-use interface with a wide range of professional features. For business podcasting, some of its most useful tools include: Noise Remover : Eliminates background sounds like air conditioning, traffic, or crowd noise. : Eliminates background sounds like air conditioning, traffic, or crowd noise. Audio Trimming : Allows precise cutting of unwanted sections or pauses. : Allows precise cutting of unwanted sections or pauses. Stem Separation : Splits a recording into separate voice and background tracks for easier adjustments. : Splits a recording into separate voice and background tracks for easier adjustments. Audio Mixing : Combines multiple recordings, such as interviews, intro music, and sound effects. : Combines multiple recordings, such as interviews, intro music, and sound effects. Voice Recording : High-quality built-in recorder with real-time monitoring. : High-quality built-in recorder with real-time monitoring. File Conversion: Supports different formats for compatibility with podcast hosting platforms. The app's design means even someone without audio engineering experience can produce clean, professional episodes. Recording on the Go: Business leaders often attend conferences, trade shows, or networking events where opportunities to record valuable conversations arise. Using AudioLab, they can capture these moments instantly without needing separate hardware. Quick Editing and Publishing: Instead of waiting to return to the office to edit, teams can remove mistakes, adjust volume levels, and add intro or outro music directly from their phone. Consistent Audio Branding: By keeping intro music, jingles, and sound effects saved within the app, businesses can ensure every episode maintains a consistent sound identity. Remote Collaboration: Team members in different locations can record their parts separately, and the editor can merge them in AudioLab, creating a seamless final product. One of the biggest advantages of mobile editing tools like AudioLab is the reduction in production costs. There is no need to invest in high-end editing software or studio time for every episode. For small businesses and startups, this is particularly important. It also saves time by streamlining the workflow—no file transfers, no waiting for a desktop to process edits, and no delays in publishing. Some may wonder if mobile editing compromises audio quality. With AudioLab, the answer is no. The app's processing capabilities rival those of many desktop programs, especially for the core needs of podcast editing. Noise removal, equalization, and mixing features allow for a clear and balanced sound that meets professional standards. With more businesses launching podcasts, standing out requires both great content and great sound. Mobile tools like AudioLab allow companies to respond quickly to trending topics, publish episodes faster, and maintain quality without expanding their production budget. This agility is particularly valuable for businesses in fast-moving industries like technology, finance, and marketing. The podcasting landscape is evolving, and mobile audio editing tools are a major driver of that change. AudioLab, with its combination of professional features and user-friendly design, makes it possible for any business to produce high-quality episodes without the traditional hurdles. For companies looking to expand their brand voice, engage audiences, and stay competitive, embracing mobile editing is no longer just an option—it's a smart business move. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
CNET
4 hours ago
- CNET
This Free Hack Turns Any Old Smartphone Into a Security Camera
Upgrading your phone doesn't have to mean tossing the old one in a drawer. With just a few quick steps, you can repurpose that retired iPhone or Android into a useful security cam, with no no pricey hardware required. It's an easy, budget-friendly way to keep an eye on your front door, garage, or any spot that matters most. And best of all, you can start small. All you need is a free home security camera app and a way to position the phone where you want coverage. If you want to take it further, a simple phone stand or mount can give you the perfect angle. In minutes, your unused device can start streaming video, adding an extra layer of protection to your home without spending a dime. Step 1: Install a security camera app on your old smartphone Alfred Camera is free and lets you set up a cam solution yourself. Alfred Camera To begin, you will need to choose a security camera app. Most apps offer many of the same features, such as local streaming, cloud streaming, recording and storing footage locally or remotely, and motion detection and alerts. Once you're set up, you will be able to monitor your living space and control your security camera from anywhere, straight from your new phone. One of the best app options for setting up your phone as a security camera is Alfred. It's cross-platform, so it doesn't matter if your old phone was an Android phone or iPhone. And the same goes for your new phone. Alfred is free to use and gives you a remote view of your live feed, motion detection with alerts, free cloud storage, a two-way audio feed and use of both the front and rear cameras. To unlock additional features, like higher-resolution viewing and recording, zoom capabilities, ad removal and 30-day cloud storage, you can upgrade to Alfred Premium. 1. Download Alfred (Android, iOS) on both your old and new phones. You don't have to use a phone as a monitoring tool -- you can also download Alfred to your tablet or PC if you prefer to keep watch from there. Just make sure the app is on both devices. 2. On the new phone, swipe through the introduction and tap Start. Select Viewer and tap Next. 3. Once you get to the sign-in page, click Sign in with Google (a Google account is required) and sign in with your Google account credentials. 4. On the old phone, repeat the same steps, but instead of selecting Viewer, select Camera. Be sure to sign in to the same Google account. Alfred's app supports night vision, people recognition and more. Alfred Once both phones are signed in to Alfred, you're pretty much done with the setup. Alfred has simplified the camera options to include only a few settings. On iOS, you can only enable motion detection, choose between the front and rear cameras, and enable or disable audio. If you're using an Android device, you have those options and can also enable continuous focus, have Alfred automatically reopen if the phone reboots, set a resolution and enable a passcode lock. From your new phone, you can change a few more settings, such as turning notifications on or off, setting a camera or viewer name, adding other people to your Trust Circle (granting other people access to your video feeds), removing a camera, checking how many times a camera has disconnected, setting motion detection sensitivity and enabling a low-light filter on cameras. If Alfred isn't really doing it for you, you can explore other cam app options. Other apps that can give your old phone a security cam upgrade include: Faceter: Faceter is a surveillance app that offers quick setup and cloud storage for Apple and Android phones. Epoccam iVCam from E2ESoft: iVCam is a more open-source cam solution that's best for those who really want to tinker with camera settings and customize them, although like EpocCam it's focused a bit more on webcam-related activities than security. Step 2: Pick a spot for your new smartphone security camera You can use your new security camera in a variety of ways after the transition. Alfred Camera After you have the stream up and running, you will need to set up and position the camera. You may want it focused on the main entry point to your home, your backyard, the place where you store valuables or a point you think might be particularly vulnerable. If you have multiple old phones, you can set up multiple cameras for fairly robust video coverage. Step 3: Mount and power your security camera smartphone To mount or position the camera, a small smartphone tripod or suction-cup car mount can work wonders and help you position the camera in an inconspicuous place. To broaden the field of view, consider buying a wide-angle lens for your phone, something that can be purchased for between $5 and $20 online. Streaming video is very power-intensive, and the phone will be on 24/7. To keep the phone from dying in the first few hours, you'll need to position it close to a power source. A 10-foot Micro-USB,Lightning cable or USB-C cable and spare phone charger will give you more flexibility in where you can put it. And that's it: Now you can use the security cam app on your new phone to view the feed from your old phone's camera, and you've made your home more secure without spending much at all. Note: When choosing your mounting location, be sure to avoid furnace vents and other heat sources, such as in a window that gets full sun all day. Heat sources can damage your camera's lenses and battery over time, especially when combined with the heat of a power-hungry task like livestreaming. Final note: Old smartphones and security concerns Smartphones will eventually age out of security updates, which means they can eventually become vulnerable to attacks. If your old phone is still online -- like when you're using it as a security camera -- that's a problem. First, we recommend wiping any personal data off the phone before you transform it into a camera. Second, automate your updates when possible. Third, consider giving the phone a final use-by date, after which you'll recycle it. These days, companies try to push security updates for five to seven years after release (with some going even longer in recent years). We have a full guide on the security of older phones if you'd like to learn more. Finally, if we've got you excited about using your smartphone for home security purposes, don't forget that you can also download an app like Hidden Camera Detector to automatically search for telltale signs that there's a cam watching in the room. Airbnb may have outlawed indoor security cameras, but we don't blame you if you still want to check when you're traveling. For more, check out the best DIY home security systems.
