Background App Refresh is an iPhone and iPad setting that lets apps update their content while you are not using them, so they show fresh data the moment you open them. For example, news, social, and weather apps can load new posts or updates in the background. It uses some battery and data, and you can turn it off entirely or per app.
Why this happens
- Apps fetch new content before you open them.
- It keeps feeds, weather, and messages current.
- It finishes tasks like uploads after you leave an app.
- Some apps refresh only on Wi-Fi, while others refresh on data too.
Is this normal?
Yes. It is a standard iOS feature and is on by default. Android handles the same idea through per-app background data and battery settings.
Does it cause any problems?
It can use extra battery and mobile data. Turning it off for apps you do not need refreshed can improve battery life, at the cost of slightly older content when you open them.
How to fix or check it
- On iPhone or iPad, open Settings, General, Background App Refresh.
- Tap Background App Refresh at the top to choose Off, Wi-Fi, or Wi-Fi and Cellular.
- Below that, toggle it on or off for each individual app.
- Turn it off for rarely used or data-heavy apps to save battery and data.
- On Android, the equivalent is Settings, Apps, pick the app, Mobile data or Battery, and allow or restrict background activity.
Frequently asked questions
Does turning off background app refresh save battery?
Yes, usually a noticeable amount, especially if you disable it for many apps. The trade-off is that content may not be preloaded.
Will I still get notifications if I turn it off?
Yes. Push notifications use a separate system and keep working. Background App Refresh only controls content updating, not alerts.
Should I turn off background app refresh completely?
Not necessarily. Keep it on for apps you want kept current, and turn it off for the rest to balance freshness and battery life.