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Do you find multitasking options on your iOS device to be draining your battery or slowing down performance? In this article, we will guide you on how to turn off multitasking on iPhone and iPad.
What Is Multitasking?
Mac users have been able to multitask for years, but it took a while for iPhone and iPad to catch up due to battery and power limitations. Multitasking on iOS refers to the ability to run multiple apps or programs at the same time. iOS 9 introduced the Slide Over and Split View options for newer iPads, while Picture in Picture became another addition that allows you to rotate a video in a corner of the screen while using another app. Unfortunately, these features are absent on the iPhone. However, you can disable background app refresh to save battery life.
How to Disable Background App Refresh on iPhone
Disabling the Refresh Apps in Background setting, found under Settings > General > Background App Refresh, allows apps to only update when you use them instead of checking for new content or updates in the background. This setting is especially useful for apps like Facebook and Twitter, among many others, that often check in with servers and drain battery life. You can disable the entire service or uncheck specific apps.
How to Turn Off Multitasking on iPad
If you want to turn off multitasking on iPad, go to Settings > General > Multitasking and disable the “Allow Multiple Apps” setting, which allows both Slide Over and Split View. You can also disable Persistent Video Overlay, which controls the Picture in Picture feature, and the multi-touch gestures used to navigate iOS using four- and five-finger shortcuts. You can also disable Background Refresh under Settings > General > Background App Refresh and choose which apps to interrupt. These adjustments can help your iOS device run smoothly, save battery life and enhance performance.
If you’re still experiencing issues with a sluggish iPhone or iPad, follow our guides on how to speed them up.
FAQs
Can I completely disable multitasking on my iPhone?
You cannot fully disable multitasking on your iPhone, but you can disable Background App Refresh for specific apps under Settings > General > Background App Refresh.
What multitasking options exist for iPads?
Newer iPads have Slide Over and Split View options that allow users to access another app or run two apps side by side, as well as the Picture in Picture feature. However, you can disable these options under Settings > General > Multitasking.