How to determine which apps or processes cause overloading an Android system

Learn to identify and resolve Android performance issues by pinpointing resource-draining apps using built-in tools and third-party apps!

Android smartphones are indispensable in the ever-changing world of mobile technology. But as app functionality and resource requirements grow, they may eventually cause system overloads that result in slowdowns, battery waste and even crashes.

The purpose of this article is to give a systematic method for identifying the applications or processes that are bogging down your Android device. So, let’s dive in!

Reasons for Overloading

Android system overloads can be caused by a number of different things such as:

  • Resource Intensive Apps

Certain applications need a substantial amount of processing power, memory, or network resources, which might cause the system as a whole to run more slowly.

  • Background Processes

It’s possible for apps that are operating in the background to continue using resources, which may put a burden on the performance of the system.

  • Software Bugs

Bugs in applications or the operating system’s software may result in the loss of resources or inefficient use of those resources, which can lead to unanticipated overloads.

  • Poorly Optimised Apps

It’s possible that performance difficulties are being caused by apps that haven’t been updated or that aren’t optimised for your particular device.

  • Battery-Intensive Operations

Certain applications that need regular updates, make use of GPS, or execute animations that use a lot of resources may rapidly deplete your battery life.

Prefer Using Built-in Resources

While these resources are somewhat limited, they do offer a fundamental understanding of the underlying operations of specific applications.

The data primarily focuses on battery consumption, although you can activate the CPU activity indicator as well. However, before delving into details, let’s establish a crucial differentiation.

For instance, in scenarios where you engage in resource-intensive, visually complex gaming and your most recent recorded CPU activity appears elevated, that’s acceptable.

Nevertheless, if you notice sporadic spikes in CPU usage during idle periods, it might be wise to address certain third-party apps functioning in the background. Implementing measures such as restricting or uninstalling them could be a prudent course of action.

If you’re uncertain about how to enable the CPU monitor on your Android device, follow these provided guidelines:

  • Go to Settings then tap on “My Phone” in the Start
go to setting tap on my phone - android cpu usage
Image: Nextgenphone
  • Now Look for “Build Number” tap 7 Times on “Build Number
Tap 7 times at build number - android cpu usage
Image: Nextgenphone
  • Go Back to Settings Scroll Down to Find “System
go to setting click system - android cpu usage
Image: Nextgenphone
  • Tap on System and at the End You’ll Find “Developer Options
Go to developers option - android cpu usage
Image: Nextgenphone
  • Now, Tap on it and Enable “Profile HWUI Rendering” Under the Monitoring Section
Enable Profile HWUI Rendering - android cpu usage
Image: Nextgenphone

Note: It’s important to mention that on certain Android devices, this option might be labelled as “Show CPU Usage,” while devices with varying operating systems could present different terminology.

From now on, you’ll receive real-time updates on CPU activity. This should allow you to identify and put a stop to specific background apps that are excessively consuming your CPU resources.

If you’re unsure about the steps to forcibly disable apps, follow the provided instructions below:

Go to developers option - android cpu usage
Image: Nextgenphone
  • Choose “Running Services” or “Processes”
click over running services - android cpu usage
Image: Nextgenphone
  • Stop Any Apps That Appear Suspicious
Stop Suspicious Apps - Android CPU Usage
Image: Nextgenphone

However, please be aware that this approach remains effective only until your device is restarted. Following a restart, there’s a possibility that the terminated app process might reappear, much like a phoenix rising from the ashes.

Given this, it’s advisable to contemplate uninstalling the problematic app entirely. Additionally, if you’re confident that CPU usage is no longer exhibiting unusual spikes, you can easily deactivate the on-screen CPU monitoring. This will allow you to continue using your device as usual.

Use 3rd-party apps

Now, let’s delve into the core topic. Many contemporary smartphones are equipped with pre-installed maintenance utilities.

However, these tools are often better suited for basic tasks like clearing caches and offering miscellaneous functionalities of limited significance. It’s worth noting that antivirus applications don’t hold significant importance or utility on the Android platform.

As a result, if you’re seeking to assess CPU usage on Android with a higher degree of precision, it’s recommended to turn to specialised third-party applications. Here are the three leading choices:

tinycore
Image: Uptodown tinycore

This elegantly designed application encompasses nearly every essential feature one might require. It’s like a tailor-made built-in tool that seamlessly integrates into your phone, offering real-time performance monitoring. The presence of an informative stats bar, thoughtfully positioned, further enhances its appeal.

  • CPU-Z App
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
Developer: CPUID
Price: Free
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot
  • CPU-Z Screenshot

Possibly the best Android performance monitoring application focused on CPU activity. While it might lack an extensive array of features for Android smartphones, it boasts a wealth of functionalities in its PC counterpart. Nonetheless, it provides robust support for a wide range of available handsets.

  • CPU Monitor – Temperature

This application stands out as both visually stunning and highly potent in monitoring CPU status for Android devices. It empowers you to track real-time CPU temperature and frequency, as well as analyze historical data for these parameters.

Beyond this, it conveniently provides insights into RAM, CPU, and battery information. Notable features include CPU Monitoring, Device Insights, Temperature Overheat Alarm, Floating Window, Widget, Multi-Theme support, and much more.

Conclusion

Identifying apps or processes causing overloading on your Android system requires a systematic approach. By utilizing built-in tools, developer options and third-party apps, you can effectively diagnose performance issues.

Regular maintenance, updating apps, and prudent app management can ensure a smoother and optimized Android experience, keeping your device running at its best.

Melanie Moeller
the authorMelanie Moeller
Melanie Moeller loves writing about the latest and greatest smartphones as well as all the latest news related to technology. She is enlightening the readers with more than 5 years of experience in writing. And when she doesn't write, she can be found listening to music and watching science fiction movies.
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Alan K. Chan

Ha, the photos and the text don’t seem to agree. I get the photos and not the text. Can you fix this article to have the text match the photos?

Victoria Parkle

Hi Alan K. Chan,

Thank you for your comment, we’ve updated the content with a clear understanding and relevant media, hope it helps in understanding what’s causing the overloading in your phone’s CPU Storage.