Limits background processes to reduce distractions and unnecessary system load.
Reducing background activity prevents apps from constantly updating, sending notifications or consuming energy while not in use. This results in fewer interruptions and a calmer, more predictable device experience. Each operating system offers different levels of control – from automatic management to detailed per-app restrictions.
Open Settings > General > Background App Refresh. Select Off or disable background refresh for individual apps. To further limit background activity, turn on Low Power Mode under Settings > Battery.
Note: iOS automatically manages many background processes and adjusts them based on usage and battery status.
Open Settings > Battery and turn on Adaptive Battery. The system automatically limits background activity for apps you use infrequently.
To restrict a specific app:
Open Settings > Apps, select an app, then go to Battery. Set it to Restricted to reduce background activity.
Note: Menu paths and labels may vary slightly depending on the device.
Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps. Select an app and open the three-dot menu. Open Advanced options, if supported by the app.
There you can choose whether the app is allowed to run in the background, for example Never or Power optimized.
Note: Not all apps support this setting. Windows automatically manages many background processes and does not allow full manual control.
macOS manages background activity largely automatically using “App Nap”. Open System Settings > Battery to enable power optimization features. Note: Direct control over per-app background processes is limited. Some apps provide their own background activity settings.
Frequent notifications can disrupt focus and lead to stress. Limiting alerts or enabling focus modes helps maintain control and calm.
Distractions from movement, colors or notifications can interrupt focus. Reducing visual noise and limiting alerts supports sustained attention.
Users who process information slowly need more time for interactions. Reduced motion, clearer layouts and extended time settings improve usability.
Complex or information-heavy interfaces can be overwhelming. Simplified layouts, reduced distractions and focus modes help manage cognitive load.
For setting to be effective, a website or app often must be technically implemented in such a way that it respects operating system and browser settings.
Developers and designers should follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The following WCAG criteria are particularly relevant for this setting:
2.2.2