How to Keep Apps Running in the Background on iPhone
Hey Readers!
Are you tired of your apps closing in the background, losing your progress or notifications? Fortunately, there are several methods to keep apps running in the background on iOS devices, ensuring uninterrupted experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various options available to extend your apps’ lifespan and optimize your iPhone’s efficiency.
Background App Refresh
One straightforward approach to maintain app activity is Background App Refresh. This feature allows apps to fetch new data and perform tasks periodically, even when they’re closed. To enable Background App Refresh:
- Go to "Settings" on your iPhone.
- Tap on "General."
- Select "Background App Refresh."
- Toggle the switch on for the apps you want to keep running in the background.
Multitasking
iOS’s multitasking capabilities provide another way to keep apps active. With multitasking, you can quickly jump between multiple apps without closing them. To enable multitasking:
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen or double-click the Home button to enter the App Switcher.
- Swipe left or right to navigate between open apps.
Using Shortcuts
Apple’s Shortcuts app offers an innovative way to keep apps running in the background. You can create custom shortcuts that automatically launch and keep specific apps open, even if they would otherwise be terminated due to inactivity.
To create a shortcut:
- Open the Shortcuts app.
- Tap on the "+" button.
- Select "Add Action."
- Search for the app you want to keep running.
- Add the action to your shortcut.
- Tap on "Done" to save the shortcut.
Related Features
In addition to the main methods discussed above, several other features can influence how apps behave in the background:
- Low Power Mode: This mode conserves battery life by reducing background app activity.
- App Limits: This feature allows you to set time limits for app usage, which can automatically close apps after a certain period of inactivity.
- Motion & Fitness: Apps that track motion or fitness data may be allowed to run in the background for extended periods.
App-Specific Settings
Some apps offer their own built-in settings to control background activity. These settings can typically be found within the app’s settings menu. Reviewing and adjusting these settings can further optimize app behavior in the background.
Table: Comparison of Background App Features
| Feature | Background App Refresh | Multitasking | Shortcuts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enables automatic data fetching | Yes | No | No |
| Keeps apps visible and active | No | Yes | No |
| Customizable | Limited to app-specific settings | Flexible | Highly customizable |
| Battery consumption | Moderate | Moderate | Minimal |
Conclusion
By leveraging these methods, you can keep apps running in the background on your iPhone, ensuring seamless multitasking, uninterrupted experiences, and timely notifications. Whether you need to stay connected, track fitness data, or keep apps open for immediate access, understanding and implementing these techniques will enhance your iPhone’s capabilities.
If you’re eager to expand your knowledge on iPhone optimization, be sure to check out our other articles:
- How to Improve iPhone Battery Life
- iPhone Performance Optimization Tips
- Customize Your iPhone for Maximum Productivity
FAQ about iPhone Running Apps in Background
1. What are background apps?
- Apps that continue to run even when you’re not actively using them.
2. Why do I need to run apps in the background?
- To stay up-to-date with notifications, track location, or use location-based services.
3. How can I run an app in the background?
- Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh.
4. Which apps can I run in the background?
- Most apps can be run in the background, but some require permission from you.
5. How can I stop an app from running in the background?
- Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and turn off the app.
6. Will running apps in the background drain my battery?
- Yes, but the impact varies depending on the app and how frequently it updates.
7. Will running apps in the background use my data?
- Yes, if the app connects to the internet to update data.
8. Can I turn off background app refresh for all apps?
- Yes, go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and select "Off" at the top.
9. How do I check which apps are running in the background?
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the Control Center and tap the App Switcher icon.
10. What is Background App Refresh?
- A feature that allows apps to fetch new data while they’re not open.