On most Samsung Galaxy phones, open Settings > Battery > Background usage limits, then check Sleeping apps and Deep sleeping apps for the app. If Battery is not shown at the top level, look under Settings > Battery and device care > Battery. Samsung notes that menus can differ by model and software version.
Check the app’s sleep status
- Open Settings.
- Tap Battery. On some Galaxy phones, first tap Battery and device care, then Battery.
- Tap Background usage limits.
- Open Sleeping apps and Deep sleeping apps, and look for the app in each list.
If neither list appears, use the Settings search to look for Background usage limits. Labels and navigation vary across Galaxy models and software versions, so the search result may be the quickest route. Samsung’s Galaxy sleeping-apps guide describes the lists and notes that the available screens may vary.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What the three lists mean
| List | Background behavior | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping apps | Background activity is limited, but the app may run in the background again after you open and use it. | Check here if an app’s background work or notifications seem delayed. |
| Deep sleeping apps | The app does not perform background activity while inactive; it works when you open it. | Background updates or notifications may not arrive until you use the app. |
| Never sleeping apps | The app is excluded from automatic sleeping and deep sleeping. | Keeping an app active in the background may increase battery use. |
Samsung describes these modes as limits applied according to app usage patterns and background battery consumption. Its developer documentation notes that the exact policy can change. Samsung Application Management
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Remove an app from a sleep list or exempt it
If the app appears in Sleeping apps or Deep sleeping apps, open the relevant list and use its available remove or edit control to take the app out. To prevent automatic sleeping, add it to Never sleeping apps instead. Button names and placement may vary by software version; Samsung’s instructions show the list-based controls, but not every model presents identical screens. Samsung support: Sleeping apps on your Galaxy phone
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Use the exception selectively. An app that must keep working when you are not actively using it may benefit, but allowing more background activity can consume more battery. Samsung’s battery-optimization guidance, which is based on Android 13, also flags this trade-off. Samsung US: Galaxy Battery – Optimization
If the app is not listed
Sleep-list membership is one possible reason for delayed notifications, syncing, or other background behavior; it is not proof of the cause. For example, Samsung recommends checking the sleep lists when troubleshooting Secure Folder notifications, but that example does not establish that sleep settings explain every app’s notification issue. Samsung US: Secure Folder apps not sending notifications
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
If the app is absent from both lists, check whether its own notification or background settings are enabled and whether the issue occurs only when the phone is idle. Galaxy menus differ by device and software version, so Samsung’s troubleshooting guidance may show a screen that does not match yours. Samsung US troubleshooting guidance
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
