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Turning off Background App Refresh

Apple Watch Series 4 on watchOS 8.0.1

Some apps run in the background even when you navigate away from them. Learn how to prevent an application from running in the background. This can help your device operate faster.

  1. Note: After you switch to a different app, some apps run for a short time before they're put in a suspended state. Suspended apps aren't actively in use or taking up system resources. Background App Refresh lets suspended apps check for updates and new content.

    There are no indicators associated with this step.
  2. Step 1/5

    From the Watch app main screen on iPhone, scroll to General.

    The indicator is towards the bottom.
  3. Step 2/5

    Tap General.

    The indicator is towards the top.
  4. Step 3/5

    Tap Background App Refresh.

    The indicator is towards the bottom.
  5. Step 4/5

    Tap or slide the Background App Refresh slider to the off position.

    Note: This will prevent apps on your Watch from running in the suspended state and save battery.

    The indicator is in the top right.
  6. Step 5/5

    You've completed the steps!

    There are no indicators associated with this step.

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