Who doesn’t need a smooth- working phone today? We all are highly grateful for this flexible lifestyle and all thanks to this compact device. All the problems start dancing on our heads when the smartphone stops behaving smartly. Of course, we are talking about

The Devil Act: Phone Hanging Situation

Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, serving as our communication tools, personal assistants, entertainment hubs, and more. However, it can be frustrating when your phone starts to lag or hang, disrupting your daily activities. There are numerous reasons behind this issue, and understanding them can help you take appropriate measures to fix it.

In this blog, we will explore 15 common reasons why your phone might be hanging and provide detailed solutions to address each issue.

1. Insufficient Storage Space

Problem: When your phone's internal storage is nearly full, it can significantly slow down performance. Apps and the operating system require free space to function efficiently.

Solution:

• Delete Unnecessary Files: Regularly delete unused apps, photos, videos, and documents.
• Transfer to Cloud Storage: Use cloud storage services like Google Drive or iCloud to store files.
• Use SD Cards: If your phone supports expandable storage, use an SD card for additional space.

A study by Counterpoint Research shows that nearly 30% of smartphone users face performance issues due to insufficient storage space. The average user consumes around 11GB of data per month, leading to quick storage exhaustion, especially on phones with 32GB or less internal storage. You can simply buy refurbished smartphone with better storage capacity and get rid of this problem. Mobilegoo offers premium quality second hand phones at best prices. No more storage drama!!

Data that you must know:

• Photo and Video Storage: High-resolution photos and 4K videos can consume significant storage space. An average 10-minute 4K video can take up about 3.75GB.
• App Size Growth: Apps are becoming more data-intensive. For instance, the Facebook app size has increased from 50MB in 2014 to over 200MB in 2023.

2. Too Many Background Processes

Problem: Having multiple apps running in the background can consume a lot of RAM, causing the phone to lag.

Solution:

• Close Background Apps: Regularly close apps running in the background. On most Android phones, you can do this by tapping the square button and swiping away the apps. On iPhones, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and swipe away the apps.
• Limit Background Activities: Go to settings and restrict background activities for less frequently used apps.

Research by App Annie indicates that the average user has 60-90 apps installed, with 30 of them being used monthly. These apps often run background processes, consuming RAM and CPU resources.

Data that you must know:

• RAM Consumption: Social media and messaging apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram can use up to 300MB of RAM each when running in the background.
• Battery Usage: Background processes can also drain the battery, with an average of 15% battery consumption attributed to background activities.

3. Outdated Software

Problem: Running an outdated operating system or apps can lead to performance issues due to incompatibility with newer apps and security vulnerabilities. This is how an outdated software can make your phone lag:

• Incompatibility: Older software versions might not work well with newer apps, causing crashes and freezing.
• Resource Management Issues: Outdated software may not be optimized for newer hardware, leading to inefficient resource usage and potential hanging.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Hackers often target known vulnerabilities in outdated software. Exploiting these vulnerabilities can introduce malware that disrupts phone functions and contributes to hanging.

• Regular Updates: Set your phone to automatically download and install updates for the OS and apps whenever available. This ensures compatibility, improves performance, and patches security holes.
• Update Frequency: Aim to update your OS at least once every two to three months, or whenever a major update is released. Update apps as soon as updates become available.

According to Statista, about 25% of Android users and 15% of iOS users are running outdated software versions. Outdated software can lead to compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities. 

Popular smartphone brands may trick you by launching updates that make your phone hang even more. Brands like Apple stop bringing new updates after a certain period of time. Hence you have to compromise with outdated software. It is genuinely recommended to not compromise your user experience with a device that has an outdated software. You can definitely consider buying another phone with the latest software. If you want to get the best deal within your budget, then choose Mobilegoo. Instead of buying a new device at heavy cost, buy a pre-owned smartphone within your budget with the latest updated software. 

Data that you must know:

• Security Risks: Outdated software is a major target for cyberattacks. In 2022, 40% of cyberattacks exploited vulnerabilities in outdated software.
• Performance Improvements: Software updates often include performance enhancements. For instance, iOS 14 improved app launch times by 30% compared to iOS 13.

4. Malware or Viruses

Problem: Malware or viruses can compromise your phone's performance and cause it to hang.

Solution:

• Install Antivirus Software: Use reputable antivirus apps to scan and remove malware. Apps like Avast, Norton, and Bitdefender are reliable options. 
• Avoid Suspicious Links and Downloads: Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading apps from unknown sources.

A report by McAfee highlights that mobile malware incidents increased by 50% in 2022. Malware can significantly degrade phone performance and compromise personal data.

Data that you must know:

• Common Threats: Common mobile malware includes adware, ransomware, and spyware. Adware alone accounted for 40% of mobile malware incidents.
• Detection and Removal: Antivirus apps like Avast and Norton have detection rates above 95% for known malware.

5. Overheating

Problem: Phones can overheat due to excessive usage or environmental factors, leading to temporary performance degradation.

Solution:

• Avoid Prolonged Usage: Take breaks during prolonged usage, especially while playing games or using intensive apps.
• Keep Your Phone Cool: Avoid exposing your phone to direct sunlight or hot environments. Use a phone case designed for heat dissipation.

A study shows that prolonged exposure to temperatures above 35°C (95°F) can cause thermal throttling, reducing performance by up to 50%.

Data that you must know:

• Heat Generation: Gaming and video streaming can increase CPU temperature to 45°C (113°F) within minutes.
• Cooling Solutions: Advanced cooling solutions, like vapor chambers and thermal pads, can reduce overheating by 20-30%.

6. App Bugs

Problem: Some apps might have bugs or be poorly optimized, causing them to consume more resources than necessary.

Solution:

• Update Apps: Ensure all apps are updated to the latest versions as developers often release bug fixes.
• Report Issues: If you encounter a bug, report it to the app developers. This helps them address the problem in future updates.

Google Play Console reports that 15% of apps on its platform have critical bugs impacting performance.

Data that you must know:

• Crash Rates: An average app has a crash rate of 1-2%, but buggy apps can have rates as high as 10%.
• User Feedback: Regular updates based on user feedback can reduce bugs by 50% over time.

7. Low RAM

Problem: Phones with less RAM struggle to keep up with multitasking and running resource-intensive apps.

Solution:

• Limit Multitasking: Avoid running too many apps simultaneously. Close apps when not in use.
• Use Lite Versions: Use lite versions of apps like Facebook Lite and Messenger Lite that are designed to use fewer resources.

A report by IDC shows that 20% of smartphones sold in emerging markets have 2GB RAM or less, impacting their ability to handle modern apps. Why to survive on a phone that has lower RAM. The better idea is to sell old phone online at Mobilegoo and get yourself a phone that has enough RAM according to your requirement.

Data that you must know:

• RAM Usage: Modern apps like games and social media can use 500MB-1GB of RAM each.
• Upgrade Trends: Phones with 4GB or more RAM have increased from 20% in 2018 to 60% in 2023.

8. Battery Issues

Problem: A deteriorating battery can impact overall phone performance, causing the phone to slow down or hang. 

Solution:

• Battery Replacement: If your battery is old or swollen, consider getting it replaced.
• Battery Optimization: Use built-in battery optimization settings to extend battery life and improve performance. Selling old phone is another alternative you can choose. Buy second hand phone online at best prices.

A study indicates that smartphone batteries lose 20% of their capacity after 500 charge cycles, leading to performance degradation.

Data that you must know:

• Battery Life: Average battery life decreases from 100% to 80% after two years of use.
• Replacement Cost: Battery replacement can restore performance and costs between $50 and $100.

9. Corrupted Files or Apps

Problem: Corrupted data can cause system instability and performance issues.

Solution:

• Reinstall Problematic Apps: If a particular app is causing issues, uninstall and reinstall it.

Android Authority reports that 10% of app crashes are due to corrupted data.

Data that you must know:

• Reinstallation: Reinstalling apps can resolve performance issues in 80% of cases.

10. Network Issues

Problem: Poor network connectivity can lead to lag, especially in online apps and services.

Solution:

• Switch Networks: If you're experiencing poor connectivity, try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
• Network Settings Reset: Reset your network settings to fix any underlying connectivity issues.

Poor network connectivity can cause lag in online apps. According to OpenSignal, network latency varies widely, with rural areas experiencing 20-30% higher latency than urban areas.

Data that you must know:

• Latency Impact: High latency (above 100ms) can cause noticeable lag in gaming and video calls.
• Wi-Fi vs. Mobile Data: Switching to a stable Wi-Fi connection can reduce latency by 50%.

11. Hardware Problems

Problem: Faulty hardware components, like a failing processor or storage, can cause performance issues.

Solution:

• Professional Diagnosis: If you suspect a hardware issue, take your phone to a professional technician for diagnosis and repair.

TechRadar reports that 5% of smartphones experience hardware failures within the first year.

Data that you must know:

• Common Failures: Common issues include battery, screen, and motherboard failures.
• Repair Costs: Repair costs can range from $50 for battery replacement to $300 for screen or motherboard repairs.

12. Excessive Cache

Problem: An excessive buildup of cached data can slow down the phone.

Solution:

• Clear Cache Regularly: Clear the cache from the settings menu under storage or individual app settings.

Excessive cache can slow down your phone. CNET recommends clearing cache regularly to maintain performance.

Data that you must know:

• Cache Size: Apps like Instagram and YouTube can accumulate 500MB of cache within a few weeks.
• Performance Boost: Clearing cache can improve app launch times by 10-20%.

13. High Screen Brightness

Problem: High brightness doesn't hurt your phone's performance directly, but extra heat from a bright screen can contribute to overheating and occasional hanging. Constantly running the screen at high brightness can overwork the GPU, affecting performance. 

Solution:

• Reduce Brightness: Lower the screen brightness or use adaptive brightness settings to adjust based on lighting conditions.
• Use Dark Mode: Enabling dark mode can reduce strain on the GPU and save battery life.

High screen brightness can overheat the phone and overwork the GPU. A study by DisplayMate shows that reducing brightness by 50% can decrease power consumption by 30%.

Data that you must know:

• Battery Drain: High brightness settings can reduce battery life by 20-30%.
• Adaptive Brightness: Using adaptive brightness can optimize performance and battery life.

14. Too Many Widgets or Animated Wallpaper

Problem: Having too many widgets on the home screen can slow down the device as they consume resources to stay updated. If your phone has an animated wallpaper, then the processor might not work with its 100% efficiency. This can be a legit reason why your phone is still hanging.

Solution:

• Remove Unnecessary Widgets: Keep only essential widgets on your home screen to free up resources.
• Set a Simple Wallpaper: You can remove the heavy animated wallpaper and try setting a simpler wallpaper instead. 

Too many widgets and  can slow down your phone. Android Central suggests limiting widgets to improve performance. Moreover, you can save your phone from the hanging situation by removing animated wallpapers.

Data that you must know:

• Resource Usage: Widgets can use 50-100MB of RAM each.
• Simplified Home Screen: Reducing widgets can improve responsiveness by 15-20%.

15. Lack of Regular Maintenance

Problem: Not regularly clearing data, deleting unnecessary files, or updating software can lead to performance issues.

Solution:

• Routine Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance tasks such as clearing cache, deleting unused files, and updating apps and OS.

Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance. ZDNet emphasizes the importance of clearing cache, deleting unnecessary files, and updating software.

Data that you must know:

• Performance Improvements: Regular maintenance can improve performance by up to 30%.
• User Habits: Only 40% of users regularly perform maintenance tasks on their phones.

# BONUS HACK

RESTART & REBOOT: Restarting and rebooting your phone can help fix hanging issues in a few ways:

1. Clears Temporary Files: When your phone runs, it creates temporary files to store data for ongoing tasks. Rebooting wipes these files, freeing up RAM and storage space, which can improve performance and reduce hanging.
2. Closes Background Processes: Many apps keep running in the background even when minimized. Rebooting stops these processes, freeing up resources and potentially resolving conflicts that might be causing your phone to hang.
3. Refreshes the System: Similar to restarting a computer, rebooting your phone refreshes the operating system. This can fix minor software glitches that might be contributing to hanging behavior.

Are you done with all this hanging situation?

We have a great solution. If you don’t want to get stuck in a situation where your phone has become a trouble maker, then you might need a smart move. The trick is when your phone stops working smart, you have to start working smartly. 

ALSO READ: Top 7 Reasons to Buy a Refurbished iPhone 12 in 2024

In conclusion, your phone can hang for various reasons, from insufficient storage space and outdated software to overheating and hardware issues. By understanding these causes and following the provided solutions, you can identify the culprit and get your phone running smoothly again. If the tips don't solve the problem entirely, consider selling your old phone and getting a refurbished one.

Additionally, understanding the various reasons behind phone lag and implementing these solutions can significantly improve your smartphone's performance. Regular maintenance, staying updated with software, and being cautious with app installations can go a long way in ensuring your phone runs smoothly.

References

1. Counterpoint Research: https://www.counterpointresearch.com
2. App Annie: https://www.appannie.com
3. Statista: https://www.statista.com
4. McAfee: https://www.mcafee.com
5. Google Play Console: https://play.google.com
6. IDC: https://www.idc.com
7. Android Authority: https://www.androidauthority.com
8. OpenSignal: https://www.opensignal.com
9. TechRadar: https://www.techradar.com
10. CNET: https://www.cnet.com
11. Display Mate: https://www.displaymate.com
12. Android Central: https://www.androidcentral.com
13. ZDNet: https://www.zdnet.com

FAQs

1. Why does my phone lag more when I'm using it for gaming?

Answer: Gaming demands a lot of processing power from your phone's CPU, GPU, and RAM. This can lead to overheating and lag. Try lowering graphics settings, cooling down your phone, and taking breaks.

2. Is it safe to use third-party apps to boost my phone's performance?

Answer: Some third-party performance apps are safe, but many contain ads or malware. Choose reputable apps from trusted sources. Modern phones often have built-in performance tools that are sufficient.

3. Can using a phone case cause my phone to overheat and lag?

Answer: Bulky cases can trap heat and cause your phone to overheat. Opt for cases with ventilation or remove it during demanding tasks.

4. How can I tell if my phone's lag is due to a hardware issue or a software problem?

Answer: Software lag often involves app crashes, slow app switching, and bugs. Try updates, clearing cache, or uninstalling problematic apps. Hardware lag might involve overheating, battery issues, or consistent performance problems even after software fixes. Consult a professional for diagnostics in such cases.

5. How often should I restart my phone to prevent lag?

Answer: Restarting your phone clears temporary files and frees up RAM, improving performance. Restarting once a week is recommended, especially for heavy users.

6. Why does my phone lag even when it’s brand new?

Answer: New phones can lag due to initial setup processes, background updates, or pre-installed apps. Allow the phone to complete updates, uninstall unnecessary apps, and ensure you have the latest software. If the lag persists, check for manufacturer recalls or known issues with your model.

Disclaimer: All information in the article is provided in good faith, however, we make no representation regarding the accuracy, adequacy, and reliability of any information on these sites.