This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
We already know that all apps are not the same when it comes to the benefits they can provide versus any negative consequences of using them — which usually includes battery drainage, taking up data, and compromising our privacy and security. It can often feel like you’re playing a game of compare and contrast to determine whether an app is worth keeping (even if it means having to charge your phone more frequently) versus deleting. That’s where the help of tech experts becomes very valuable. David Bitton, co-founder and CMO of DoorLoop, is well aware of the pros and cons of some of the most popular apps. And these are the three apps that he recommends removing from your phone immediately because they’re taking up so much data.
Google Maps
There’s no denying that Google Maps is extremely helpful. But the reason why it pops up on Bitton’s list as the number one app to delete is because it’s also a big battery drainer. “It demands a large amount of power to run correctly and provide precise location details,” Bitton says. “However, there are ways to prevent it from harming your battery and reducing its life.” These ways include:
- Disable updating when not in use.
- Disable GPS mode and configure location characteristics.
- When not in use, turn off the app.
- Disable notifications to prevent the app from giving you unnecessary notifications.
“Facebook constantly runs in the background and automatically syncs updates whenever possible,” Bitton says. “It also contains a battery-intensive notification system that causes the phone to overheat. What you can do here is:
Limit or turn off all notifications from within the app to prevent them from depleting the battery.
Limit background data and battery consumption.”
Messenger
Like the Facebook app, Messenger consumes a lot of battery power because it is continually running in the background. “The app syncs contacts often and always send notifications,” Bitton says. “Consider installing Messenger Lite, which is built for low-end smartphones and hence consumes less battery power.”
Deleting apps is always the best way to conserve data and battery power. But if you are intent on keeping these apps, adjusting the way you use is the way to go to keep your phone working better for longer.
