Some apps let you manage background activity, which determines what they can do when they’re in the background and not actively in use. Apps that can run in the background can send and receive notifications, sync information, and stay up to date. If you find that an app is using a lot of battery when running in the background, you can change the setting for apps that allow it.

  1. Select the Start button, then select Settings > System > Power & battery > Battery usage.

  2. For an app that lets you manage the background activity, select More options > Manage background activity.

  3. On the settings page for that app, change the setting for Let this app run in the background. Here’s a summary of each option:

    • Always: The app is always allowed to run in the background—receive info, send notifications, and stay up to date—even when you’re not actively using it. However, it might use more power as a result.

    • Power optimized (recommended): Windows will decide what’s best to help save the most power while still allowing the app to receive notifications and update periodically. This option might limit an app that uses more power.

    • Never: When you’re not actively using the app, it won’t run in the background. You won’t receive any notifications or updates for the app, but this will help save the most power.

Note: If you want your device to stay connected and get app updates, you must set at least one app to Always.

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