Where to find Android battery optimization?
Answer
Android battery optimization settings are accessible through multiple paths depending on your device manufacturer and Android version, with options ranging from system-level battery savers to per-app background restrictions. Most devices locate these controls within the main Settings menu under "Battery" or "Battery and device care," though the exact navigation varies between Samsung, Google Pixel, and other brands. Users can adjust both global optimization features like Adaptive Battery and granular app-specific settings that control background activity. The settings are particularly important for preventing apps from being force-stopped or for extending battery life during critical usage periods.
Key findings from the search results:
- Primary access point: Settings > Battery (or "Battery and device care" on Samsung) > [Optimization options] [2][4][8]
- App-specific controls: Found via Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Battery > "Allow background usage" or "Unrestricted" [1][5][6]
- Manufacturer variations: Samsung uses "Optimize now" in Device Care, while Pixel devices emphasize "Allow Background Usage" toggles [5][8]
- Advanced methods: ADB commands may be required for older Android versions or custom ROMs to access hidden optimization menus [3]
Battery Optimization Settings by Device Type
Accessing Global Battery Optimization
Global battery optimization features like Adaptive Battery and Battery Saver apply system-wide adjustments to extend battery life. These settings are typically enabled by default on modern Android devices (Android 9.0+) and learn from usage patterns to restrict background activity for infrequently used apps. The exact location and available options depend on the Android version and manufacturer.
For most Android devices, the primary path follows this structure:
- Open Settings
- Select Battery (or "Battery and device care" on Samsung devices)
- Look for options like:
- Adaptive Battery: Uses AI to limit battery drain from rarely used apps (Android 9.0+) [4][9]
- Battery Saver/Power Saving Mode: Reduces performance and background activity when enabled [8][9]
- Optimize now: Samsung-specific button that analyzes and restricts high-usage apps [8]
On Samsung Galaxy devices, the process is streamlined through the Device Care menu:
- Navigate to Settings > Battery and device care
- Tap Optimize now to automatically restrict background activity for apps with high battery consumption [8]
- For manual control, select Battery > Background usage limits to view and adjust restrictions per app
For Google Pixel and stock Android devices:
- Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Saver
- Toggle Adaptive Battery on/off (enabled by default)
- Select Battery usage to view app-specific consumption patterns [5]
Key limitations noted in the sources:
- Android 12+ has reduced per-app optimization options compared to older versions [3]
- Some manufacturers (like OnePlus on LineageOS) may hide these settings entirely [3]
- Disabling optimization for critical apps (like media players or tracking apps) may be necessary for proper functionality [1][6]
Managing Per-App Battery Optimization
Individual app battery settings allow users to exempt specific apps from system-wide restrictions, which is crucial for apps requiring constant background operation like music players, fitness trackers, or work applications. The navigation paths vary significantly between manufacturers, but the core functionality remains similar: preventing Android's battery manager from force-stopping important apps.
For Samsung Galaxy devices (including S23 series):
- Open Settings > Apps
- Tap the three-dot menu (upper right) > Special access
- Select Optimize battery usage
- Choose All apps from the dropdown menu
- Toggle off optimization for apps that need unrestricted background access [2]
For Google Pixel devices:
- Long-press the app icon > App info (or go via Settings > Apps > [App Name])
- Select Battery
- Tap Allow background usage
- Choose Unlimited to prevent any restrictions [5]
For other Android devices (Android 10-14):
- Open Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps
- Select the target app > Battery
- Choose between: - Optimized (default, allows system management) - Unrestricted (prevents all battery optimizations) [6]
- Some devices may require enabling Advanced optimization via the three-dot menu in Battery settings
Critical notes from the sources:
- Disabling optimization for media apps resolves playback interruptions [1]
- The Cardata Mobile app specifically requires "Unrestricted" mode for accurate trip tracking [6]
- Android 14 users report missing legacy optimization toggles, with "Allow background usage" being the primary remaining control [3]
- ADB commands like
dumpsys deviceidlecan force-disable optimization for testing purposes on rooted devices [3]
Sources & References
android.stackexchange.com
support.google.com
samsung.com
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