Animation, input, and performance tweaks for Android devices

No time to read?
Get a summary

Animation acceleration

Owners of older smartphones may notice the interface slowing down over time. If the system freezes frequently, there is a practical way to speed up animation so the device feels more responsive.

Start by accessing the developer options, which hide the key animation controls. Open the about device section and locate the build information item, which varies by manufacturer. Tap on the build information repeatedly until a message confirms that developer options are unlocked.

Next, navigate to settings, then advanced settings, and finally for developers. There you will find three animation controls: window animation, transition animation, and animation duration. Set all three to 0.5x to reduce motion and improve perceived speed.

Be aware that on devices with higher refresh rates, such as 90 Hz or 120 Hz, this adjustment can cause animation tearing in rare cases. If noticeable tearing occurs, restoring the previous values can restore smoothness.

Scroll text input

Smartphones support both built in keyboards and third party keyboards. A feature called Continuous Typing makes text entry faster by swiping from letter to letter. This works particularly well with popular keyboards like Gboard and Yandex.Keyboard.

Continuous typing lets a user glide a finger across the screen to form words. It is especially convenient while walking or traveling. If the keyboard makes an incorrect guess, suggested completions appear for quick correction. Regular use and vocabulary updates improve accuracy over time.

Application cloning

Many Android devices from Chinese manufacturers include an application cloning feature. It lets a user run two versions of the same app on one device, which is handy for people who use two SIM cards, such as a personal and a work line. Cloning can also apply to games and other apps that benefit from dual accounts.

To clone an app, open settings, go to applications, and choose clone apps. Some brands support cloning for a wide range of apps, while others maintain a curated list of eligible applications.

Performance mode

When a device stumbles during games or heavy tasks, enabling a performance mode can boost speed. This option typically consumes more power and causes more heat, so it is best used when the device is plugged in or when battery life is not a primary concern.

On Xiaomi devices, the path is settings, battery, performance mode. On Realme phones, it is settings, battery, advanced settings, working mode, then high performance. Some models like those in the GT series offer a similar mode that can be accessed in the battery section or via the quick settings panel.

For further gains, users can add specific games and applications to a game service that optimizes operation and delivers maximum performance for the selected apps. Not every vendor provides these features, so a quick search in settings for performance can reveal available options.

Factory settings

If the previous steps do not achieve the desired responsiveness, a factory reset remains an option. It resets the device to its original software state, which can clear persistent glitches and bloatware that drains memory and battery.

Before proceeding, users should back up important data, as a factory reset erases apps and files stored on the device. After reset, the device returns to a fresh setup state, and it is wise to install essential apps gradually to avoid overwhelming the system again. Returning documents and media files should be done thoughtfully, balancing performance with usable storage.

No time to read?
Get a summary
Previous Article

Local governments and the national election canvas in Poland

Next Article

Kona vs Creta: Practical Subcompact Crossovers in Russia