It sounds like a classic story from Windows, but it also reaches the Android universe. For some reason and without too much user intervention, devices based on Google's mobile operating system often suffer a deterioration in performance. Optimizing Android is a complex process that requires some knowledge about the device and the version of the operating system it has. This time our goal is to offer a series of general recommendations and extra information on what to do when Android runs slow.
Imagine for a moment that your Android device is crawling. The lag is a demon that Google has fought for many years, even in the most modern versions with extensive optimizations. There are several aspects that can cause a loss of performance in Android... and the first one is the hardware itself, with its natural limitations.
Root Access: The First Step
I imagine many users will disagree with this recommendation for logical reasons, but reality leads us in the opposite direction. Most apps that make adjustments in Android or apply modifications need root access to do it. Companies like HTC, Sony, and Google provide detailed information about "rooting" their devices, but that is the exception, not the rule.
The rest of the manufacturers and providers have no interest in providing that data, which means that rooting guides are usually per device. The only universal thing in the instructions is the package of warnings: root access can void the device's warranty, implies a greater security risk, and if done wrong, the device could become unusable (bricking).
If this doesn't stop you, make sure to back up all data on the smartphone, and that its battery is well charged. Many sites recommend solutions like TowelRoot and Kingo Root, but before you must inform yourself, it's not optional. The details for your device are out there.
Check for Firmware Updates
The alternative to root is to check if the manufacturer has published firmware updates for your device. The distribution of these updates usually depends on the provider, and almost never reaches the user on time. If your device is already a few years old, it is very likely that it already runs the latest "official" version of Android. With root access, other possibilities open up, including installing a custom ROM (LineageOS, for example), though that is another adventure. The jump from one Android version to another can be very satisfying... if done carefully. Backup, backup, backup.
Trimmer
The Trimmer app has been around for a while, and the reviews from its users are very positive. Basically, what it does is force the execution of the "fstrim" command, so as to restore the performance of NAND chips on the device (a process similar to TRIM on SSDs in desktop systems).
As expected, Trimmer needs root access to work properly. The latest update is from September 2019, and its maximum official compatibility is Android 9.0 Pie, but nothing stops you from trying it on other versions.
Uninstall or Disable Bloatware
... that is the question. Some users can go to the Applications section (also known as Applications or App Manager), tap the app, and choose "Disable". The good thing is that this does not require root. The bad thing is that it is not available on all versions.
If you do have root access available, tools like Titanium Backup are the most recommended. While they have Free editions, I suggest buying the Pro variants, as they come with more resources to attack and remove bloatware safely.
MicroSD Cards and Widgets
Finally, two additional details that are painfully obvious. Many users with smartphones that support microSD cards have decided to move apps from internal memory to the card, but if that card has low read and write performance, the performance will inevitably be low. Something as simple as replacing the microSD card with a faster one could make a big difference in those cases. And when it comes to widgets, live wallpapers, and general animations they can be easily disabled.
I hope these suggestions serve you (at least) to guide you when Android runs slow. My experiences with Titanium Backup have been excellent, Trimmer has very good feedback, and the relevance of root access remains as critical as ever. Be patient, seek information, read the experiences of other users with the same device, and apply what you learn. It requires work, but having a better Android is possible. Good luck!
