DxOMark recently published a comprehensive study that identifies which smartphone apps most aggressively drain battery life. The findings, echoed by the MySmartPrice portal via a link to the DxOMark report, analyze how different app categories behave on contemporary devices and across hardware tiers. The report aims to help users understand where energy is lost so they can make smarter choices about which apps to run and how to configure their phones for longer endurance.
To assess overall impact, the study selected apps from a range of categories that reflect typical daily use. In the communications category, the built‑in SMS app, along with widely used social platforms such as Facebook, Messenger, Snapchat, Instagram, and WhatsApp, emerged as the top battery consumers. The analysis notes that on flagship devices these apps can draw more power than on budget models, highlighting how advances in hardware paired with software design shape energy consumption in real-world scenarios.
Within the short‑video space, apps like Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels, YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Snapchat Spotlight were identified as particularly energy‑hungry. For video streaming, heavyweights including Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, and Netflix typically show higher energy use during continuous playback or live streaming, especially when high‑bitrate video is streamed over wireless networks.
The DxOMark team points to several recurring factors that influence how quickly a device loses charge when using apps. Ongoing network activity, background processes, frequent push notifications, and active location services such as GPS contribute significantly to power draw. The researchers also outline practical steps users can take to extend endurance, such as turning off features that are not needed, limiting background activity, and adjusting app permissions or settings to reduce unnecessary activity. Taken together, these adjustments help smartphones run longer between charges without sacrificing essential functionality or a smooth user experience.
In addressing common misconceptions about device efficiency, the study clarifies that energy use is driven by a combination of app behavior and hardware capabilities rather than a single culprit. This nuanced view equips users with a clearer picture of how to optimize daily routines, manage notifications, and fine‑tune settings to maximize battery life while still enjoying rich mobile experiences across social, video, and streaming apps. The insights are especially relevant for users in North America, where typical network conditions and device ecosystems can shape outcomes differently from other regions, and they offer a practical framework for improving efficiency in everyday smartphone use.