battery performance Archives

AppWizard

May 29, 2025

Google says updating Instagram app will fix Android battery drain issue

Many Android users have reported significant battery drain caused by the Instagram app, with Google confirming that Instagram is responsible for this issue. Users have shared experiences on platforms like Reddit, noting that Instagram can account for a large percentage of battery usage in a short time compared to other apps. Some users attempted to revert to older versions of Instagram, which led to overheating issues, while others switched to Instagram Lite for better battery performance. In response to these concerns, Google advised users to update to Instagram version 382.0.0.49.84, which has reportedly resolved the battery drain problem for many. This incident follows earlier battery-related issues faced by Pixel phone users, highlighting ongoing performance challenges linked to app updates. Users are encouraged to keep their Instagram app updated and monitor battery usage by applications.

AppWizard

May 29, 2025

Updating Instagram Might Stop Your Android Battery From Draining

Instagram has rolled out an update (version 382.0.0.49.84) to address a significant battery drain issue affecting Android users. Google confirmed this development in a post on its Help Community blog, indicating the problem was considerable. Users can check for updates on the Play Store to potentially resolve battery performance issues related to the app.

AppWizard

May 29, 2025

Google confirms that Instagram battery drain you’ve noticed on your phones is real

A growing number of Android users have reported that the Instagram app is significantly draining their device batteries, with one user noting that Instagram used 12.4% of battery during 54 minutes of screen time compared to WhatsApp's 2.4% in 49 minutes. Users attempted various solutions, including reverting to older app versions, which sometimes led to increased device heating. Some users found that using Instagram Lite improved battery performance. Google has acknowledged the issue and recommended users update to Instagram version 382.0.0.49.84 to address the battery drain, and feedback following the update has been largely positive, indicating the issue has been resolved for many.

Winsage

May 27, 2025

Sorry, Windows. Lenovo’s Legion Go S runs better with SteamOS

Lenovo's Legion Go S gaming handheld is the first device from the manufacturer to support both Windows and SteamOS. The SteamOS Edition has been recently released, allowing for performance comparisons with the Windows version. Both versions have identical specifications, including an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor, 16GB of RAM, and an 8-inch 1200p display. The SteamOS version performs 5-15 percent faster in running games and has superior battery life, outperforming the Windows edition significantly in both low-power and demanding games. The base launch price of the SteamOS Edition is 9, influenced by import taxes, while the Windows version retails for 9. More powerful configurations are available for 9 and 9 for SteamOS and Windows versions, respectively, but the SteamOS variant is labeled as “Coming Soon” at Best Buy.

Winsage

May 26, 2025

In an embarrassment for Microsoft, SteamOS seems to destroy Windows 11 on gaming performance and battery life, as well as usability

Early comparisons between SteamOS and Windows 11 on identical hardware show that SteamOS offers significantly better gaming performance, particularly in battery life. The Lenovo Legion Go S, when running SteamOS, provides over six hours of gameplay on 2D games like Dead Cells, while the Windows version only achieves 2.75 hours. Despite Windows 11's compatibility with various gaming platforms, it has faced criticism for performance issues and unnecessary features. Windows holds a dominant market share of about 70% in desktop operating systems, but the rise of SteamOS may challenge this position.

Winsage

May 26, 2025

A YouTuber claims that Windows was actively causing handhelds to run poorly, at least versus SteamOS

Valve has expanded support for handheld consoles, including the Lenovo Legion Go S, which now offers an option for SteamOS alongside Windows. A recent analysis by YouTuber Dave2D highlights that the SteamOS version significantly outperforms the Windows version in terms of framerate and battery life. The Windows version retails for approximately 9, while the SteamOS variant is priced at 9. In performance tests, the SteamOS version achieved 10-15 FPS higher in games like Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher 3, and provided over six hours of gameplay compared to the Windows version's two hours and 47 minutes. The Lenovo Legion Go S also surpasses the Steam Deck in framerate, achieving 10-15 FPS more at a 15W power draw, although the Steam Deck still has an advantage in battery life and pricing. The performance gap raises questions about Microsoft's upcoming handheld device running Windows and its ability to compete with the efficiency of SteamOS.

AppWizard

May 19, 2025

How to stop Android apps running in the background

Experiencing unexpected battery drain on Android devices can be caused by background apps. To manage these apps and alleviate battery issues, users can activate the Adaptive Battery feature by navigating to Settings > Battery > Battery Saver > Adaptive Battery and toggling it on. Regular updates for both the Android system and applications can improve battery performance. Users can check for Android updates in Settings > System > Software updates and for app updates in the Google Play Store under Manage apps & device. To monitor battery usage, users can go to Settings > Battery > Battery usage to identify which apps consume the most power. For RAM usage, enabling Developer options allows users to see which apps are using memory by going to Settings > About phone > Build number (tap seven times) > System > Developer options > Running services. Users can stop or uninstall background apps by navigating to Settings > Apps > See all apps, selecting the app, and choosing to force stop or uninstall it. To limit background activity for specific apps, users can enable "Pause app activity if unused" or toggle off "Allow background usage" in the app's battery usage settings. Some manufacturers offer built-in options for managing background apps, and third-party apps like Greenify can also help. Common battery-draining apps include social media and streaming services.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

Google won’t bring Android 16’s Battery Health page to older Pixels

Android 16 will introduce a Battery Health page for Pixel phone users, displaying estimated battery capacity as a real-time percentage. This feature will be available only on the Pixel 8a and newer models, including the Pixel 9 series, while older models will not have access due to product limitations. The Battery Health page will be integrated into the Settings app and will provide detailed analytics on battery performance, including a status indicator and links to support articles. Newer Pixel devices can endure up to 1,000 charge cycles, while older models are rated for a maximum of 800 charge cycles. The feature is currently available in Beta 3 for the Pixel 8a and Pixel 9 devices.

AppWizard

April 15, 2025

Google rolls out an auto-reboot feature for Android phones to safeguard data

Google has released an update to its April Play Services and Store changelog, introducing an automatic reboot function for Android phones that have been locked for three consecutive days to enhance data encryption. The initial batch of April updates included battery life improvements and a security patch for Pixel devices. The update also features optimizations for device connectivity and a minor enhancement to the "Ask a question" feature in the Play Store. Additionally, the April update includes the 2025 security update for Pixel devices, addressing camera issues and screen dimming problems reported by users of the Pixel 6 and 7 series. The Pixel 9 Pro XL has been introduced, featuring a 6.8-inch display and a commitment to seven years of updates.

Winsage

April 8, 2025

How to check apps draining the most battery on Windows 11

Users experiencing rapid battery drain on Windows 11 laptops may find that certain applications are consuming excessive energy. To identify and mitigate the impact of these power-hungry apps, users can take several steps: 1. Change Power Mode: - Open Settings > System > Power & battery. - Click on Power Mode and select "Best Power Efficiency." 2. Enable Energy Saver: - Open Settings > System > Power & battery. - Click on Energy Saver and either turn on the "Always use energy saver" toggle or set a battery level to activate it automatically. 3. Energy Recommendations: - Open Settings > System > Power & battery. - Click on Energy Recommendations and apply individual or all suggested changes. 4. Restrict Background Permissions: - Open Settings > System > Power & battery. - Click on Battery usage, analyze app usage, select the app, and manage background activity by choosing "Never" under background app permissions. 5. Uninstall App: - Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps. - Select the app to uninstall and follow the instructions. These actions can help optimize battery life on Windows 11 laptops.