Imagine your Android phone operating at peak performance, with a battery that lasts, security you can trust, and a seamless user experience. However, subtle habits and overlooked settings can silently affect your device's capabilities. Let's uncover those hidden pitfalls and transform your Android phone into the secure and efficient powerhouse it was meant to be.
10 Using third-party app stores
google-play-store-hero
Google Play Store is home to millions of apps and games on Android. It should be your only place to download them. Many Android users switch to a third-party app store to install several premium apps for free. After all, the promise of unlocking paid features without spending a dime can be tempting.
However, such a shortcut can negatively impact your Android phone and personal data. Unlike Google Play Store, which has a standard review process (and Google Play Protect to scan apps for malware), these third-party app stores operate in a "wild west" environment. Developers upload apps with minimal scrutiny, making it easy for malicious software to slip through.
Free apps from third-party stores often come with a hidden cost: your privacy and security. While no system is foolproof, the Play Store offers a higher level of security and peace of mind.
9 Downloading APK files from the web
Android offers the flexibility to sideload APK files from the web. These files haven't been scanned for malware, can be tampered with, may have outdated versions, and don't carry the guarantee of being safe and functional. Even if a website claims that its APKs are safe, there's no way to verify this claim.
By installing these apps, you potentially give access to your personal data, financial information, contact details, location data, and device permissions. Many third-party apps and IPTV services have unlicensed on-demand content and PPV (Pay-Per-View) events. Streaming such content on your device can put you at legal risk.

8 Using cheap cases from unknown manufactures
OnePlus 13 attached to MagSafe power bank using magnetic case
Using a cheap phone case can lead to unexpected problems. While a phone case's primary function is protection, poorly designed cases from unknown manufacturers often prioritize low cost over quality, which leads to a range of issues you may not notice initially.
These cases may have misaligned cutouts or be made with materials that obstruct the microphone and speaker grilles. It results in muffled audio during calls, distorted sound when playing music, and difficulty using voice commands. It may even interfere with sensors like the proximity sensor, which is used to turn off the screen during calls.

I recommend sticking with the official cases from the manufacturers or respected OEMs like Spigen, Bellroy, or Nomad. These companies have precise device measurements before the launch and perform well in the long run.
7 Avoiding overheating
Overheating is a silent killer of battery health, and Android users should be particularly mindful of it. Every phone battery has a finite number of charge cycles, and overheating reduces this number and drops it below a usable level.

You may notice overheating during intensive tasks like gaming, video recording, or using demanding apps. You should close background apps, limit intensive tasks, and avoid keeping your phone out of direct sunlight. While you are at it, make sure to stick with official chargers and cables and use quality cases.
6 Running your Android phone at full storage
Apps storage close up on the Pixel 9.
Running your Android phone at full or near-full storage capacity is a recipe for frustration. After all, it's not only about running out of space for new photos or apps. It impacts your phone's performance and overall user experience.
The Android system relies on free space for temporary files, cache, and other essential operations. When storage is full, the operating system struggles to manage these files, which leads to sluggish performance, app crashes, and overall slowdowns. A full storage can prevent you from installing important security updates. Check out our dedicated guide on freeing up space on your Android phone.
5 Granting excessive permissions
Granting excessive permissions to Android apps is like giving a stranger the keys to your house, car, or bank account. It leads to several privacy and security issues. In one instance, an Android user downloaded a loan app from an unofficial source, granted the contacts permission, and the scammer threatened to call every number on the user's contact list about the pending dues.
You should also be careful when enabling media permission, especially when you have private photos and videos on the device. You can give permission to specific photos and have peace of mind. Think twice before you tap the Allow button on the permission dialog box.
4 Not customizing notifications
A Pixel 6 with snooze options for a notification showing.
Neglecting notification management can affect your Android setup in no time. If you don't manage it properly, it can lead to a chaotic mess of alerts, updates, and reminders. Such behavior is distracting and overwhelming and makes it difficult to focus on what matters. At times, you may miss important alerts and time-sensitive updates.

There are several ways to manage notifications on Android. You can use notification channels to receive alerts from a specific app category, enable DND at night hours, and automate it based on work hours.
3 Using weak or reused passwords
This is another common mistake many people make. But it can have serious consequences for your privacy and security on your Android device. When hackers use brute-force attacks, they try thousands and even millions of password combinations per second to crack weak passwords.
Instead of using weak passwords like "password123" or your birthday, use a dedicated password manager, use complex passwords, and keep your login credentials safe.
2 Using public Wi-Fi without VPN
cartoon of vpn servers with the VPN label in a chat bubble pasted on a light and medium blue background
When connecting your Android phone to an open Wi-Fi network in places such as a café, hotel, or railway, enable a VPN connection. Here are the reasons why. On unsecured public Wi-Fi, hackers can position themselves between your device and the Wi-Fi network and intercept your data as it travels between your device and the internet.
Here is where a VPN network comes into play. It creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote server. It masks your IP address and creates a private network with a single tap.
1 Ignoring app and system updates
Developers and device OEMs frequently release new app and system updates to fix bugs and add new features. You shouldn't ignore these updates, as they can expose your Android phone to security vulnerabilities. It's a basic routine that many Android users ignore without thinking twice. System updates ensure that your device is compatible with the latest apps and can take advantage of their features.
You are using your Android wrong
By now, you should have a clearer understanding of what might be hindering your Android experience. Besides, following these habits doesn't require advanced technical skills. They are simple adjustments that make a significant difference. What are you waiting for? Keep the above pointers in mind, make changes wherever required, and extend your Android phone's lifespan in no time. While you are at it, check out these best Android tips to get the best out of your device.

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Asin
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This na for people wey no dey use better phone
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If you buy better phone you no go dey have this problem always
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I recommend Samsung and xiaomi
Low budget
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Don't but iPhone ooo
Na very stupid phone
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In case you have a phone already
Follow this instructions
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And take note
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Avoid floating apps tooo
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Always clear recent apps
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And sometimes don't charge when you are using the phone
At least make your phone dey rest nahh😂😂
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