Symptoms
- Battery settings show one app using most of the power
- Phone gets warm even when that app is closed
- Battery drops noticeably faster since installing or updating the app
- App has permissions like location or background refresh enabled
Likely causes
- CommonBackground location tracking always onApps set to 'always allow' location access can run constantly in the background.
- CommonBackground app refresh or syncApps checking for new content frequently use meaningful battery over a day.
- PossibleA bug causing the app to loop or not sleep properlySome app versions have known issues that keep the processor active.
- PossiblePush notifications with heavy background processingApps that do more than just show an alert on notification can drain battery.
- PossibleOutdated app versionBattery bugs are frequently fixed in later updates.
What to do
- Open battery usage settings and confirm which app is using the most power.
- Change that app's location access to 'while using' or 'never' if always-on isn't needed.
- Turn off background app refresh for that app.
- Update the app to the latest version.
- Force-close the app if it's not needed running in the background.
- Check the app's own settings for a battery-saving or low-power mode.
- If the drain continues, uninstall and reinstall the app, or consider an alternative app.
When to call a pro
If battery drain is severe and no single app explains it, have a phone shop test the actual battery health, since it may be degraded regardless of software.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.