Updating an Android phone is supposed to improve performance, add new features, and fix bugs. But many users experience the opposite — their phone becomes slow after an update. Apps start lagging, animations feel choppy, and even basic tasks take longer.
I’ve personally faced this issue after a major Android update, where my phone felt noticeably slower for a few days. After testing multiple fixes and understanding what actually causes this problem, I was able to restore smooth performance without resetting my phone.
In this article, I’ll explain why Android phones slow down after updates and share practical fixes that actually help, instead of generic advice.
Why Android Phones Become Slow After an Update
Android updates make deep changes to the system. During this process, several things can affect performance temporarily or permanently.
1. Background Optimization After Update
After a system update, Android re-optimizes:
- Installed apps
- System files
- Cached data
This process runs in the background and can slow down your phone for a few hours or even a couple of days.
2. Old App Cache Conflicts With New System Files
Apps store cache based on the previous Android version. After an update, this old cache can conflict with new system behavior, causing lag and crashes.
3. Apps Not Optimized for the New Android Version
Some apps take time to release updates compatible with the latest Android version. Until then, they may consume more RAM or CPU.
4. Increased System Resource Usage
New Android versions often:
- Use more RAM
- Add background services
- Increase animation complexity
This affects older or budget phones more.
How Long Does Android Lag After an Update?
In many cases, slow performance is temporary.
- Minor updates: 1–2 hours
- Major updates: 1–3 days
- Older phones: up to a week
If your phone is still slow after several days, manual fixes are needed.
Fixes That Actually Help Speed Up Android After an Update
Method 1: Restart Your Phone (Don’t Skip This)
This sounds basic, but it works.
Why it helps:
- Clears temporary memory
- Restarts stuck background processes
- Completes pending system optimization
After a major update, restarting once or twice makes a noticeable difference.
Method 2: Clear Cache of Heavy Apps (Not Data)
Clearing cache removes outdated temporary files without deleting personal data.
Apps to focus on:
- Chrome
- YouTube
- Google Play Services
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Select the app
- Tap Storage
- Clear Cache (not data)
Avoid clearing data unless necessary.
Method 3: Update All Apps From Play Store
Many users forget this step.
After a system update:
- Open Google Play Store
- Tap Manage apps & device
- Update all pending apps
Developers release compatibility updates that significantly improve performance.
Method 4: Reduce or Disable System Animations
This method gives instant speed improvement, especially on older phones.
Steps:
- Enable Developer Options
- Open Developer Options
- Set:
- Window animation scale → 0.5x or Off
- Transition animation scale → 0.5x or Off
- Animator duration scale → 0.5x or Off
This doesn’t remove features, only reduces animation load.
Method 5: Check Storage Space Properly
Low internal storage slows down Android badly.
Recommended free space:
- At least 20–25% internal storage free
What helps:
- Delete unused apps
- Remove large video files
- Clear WhatsApp media
- Move photos to cloud storage
Even phones with good RAM perform poorly when storage is almost full.
Method 6: Identify Apps Draining Performance
Some apps misbehave after updates.
What to check:
- Battery usage
- RAM usage
- Background activity
If one app is consuming unusually high resources, uninstall or replace it.
Method 7: Wipe Cache Partition (Advanced but Safe)
This clears system-level cache without deleting data.
Steps (may vary by phone):
- Power off phone
- Press Power + Volume Up
- Enter recovery mode
- Select Wipe cache partition
- Reboot
This often fixes persistent lag after updates.
What NOT to Do When Android Becomes Slow
Avoid these mistakes:
- Factory reset immediately
- Install “RAM booster” apps
- Use fake cleaning apps
- Downgrade Android version unofficially
These often cause more harm than good.
When Should You Consider Factory Reset?
Only consider factory reset if:
- Phone remains slow after 5–7 days
- Apps crash frequently
- Battery drains abnormally
- None of the above fixes help
Always back up data before resetting.
FAQs
Is Android slowdown after update normal?
Yes, temporary slowdown is normal, especially after major updates.
Does every update make phones slower?
No. Updates improve security and stability, but older hardware may struggle with new features.
Will future updates fix the lag?
Often yes, as system and app optimizations improve over time.
Is lag caused intentionally?
No evidence supports this. Performance issues are usually technical, not intentional.
Final Thoughts
If your Android phone is slow after an update, don’t panic. In most cases, the issue is temporary or fixable without resetting your phone.
From my experience, clearing app cache, updating apps, and reducing animations provided the biggest improvement. With a little patience and the right steps, your phone can feel smooth again.
Vaishnav Singh is the founder and primary author of TechHary.com. Based in Mumbai, he brings hands-on professional experience to his writing, having worked extensively as a Windows expert within the IT industry. His practical background in solving complex technical issues fuels his passion for creating clear, helpful, and relevant content. At TechHary.com, Vaishnav dedicates himself to publishing in-depth articles, guides, and insights aimed at demystifying technology for enthusiasts and professionals alike. His mission is to build a trusted resource where readers can find reliable information to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape.