How to Close an App on Android

Sometimes the apps running in the background can slow down your device to the point where it is difficult to use. This Gizmo Guide will show you how to close these background apps to keep your device running smoothly

Prerequisites: Must have access to an Android mobile device

Difficulty Level: Member • Nerd • Platypus 

Estimated Time: < 1 minute

Expected Outcome: The previously opened application will be closed and cleared from running in the background, taking up system resources

Tools Required: Android device

Steps to Perform

1. From the home screen, bring up the background apps.
   1. Samsung- press and hold the home button, tap (Task Manager) button
   2. LG- tap on the square button at the bottom, left-hand corner of the screen
   3. Google- drag your finger from the bottom of the screen upwards about an inch and release
   4. Motorola- press the square button at the bottom, right-hand corner of the screen
2. Swipe each app one-by-one off the screen, hit the exit button on the corner of each app box or click the ‘Clear all apps’ option
3. Once this is complete, it will either show ‘No recent apps’ or take you back to the home screen