Access Running Apps List on Android 6.0+ - Guide

Locating Running Apps in Android 6.0 and Earlier

Prior to Android 5.x, viewing a comprehensive list of currently active applications was straightforward. Users could navigate directly to Settings > Apps > Running to achieve this.

However, with the release of Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), Google altered the location of this functionality. While the setting remains accessible, its discovery requires a slightly different path.

Finding Running Applications on Marshmallow and Newer Versions

Despite the change, identifying which apps are currently consuming system resources is still possible. The process is a bit less intuitive than in previous Android iterations.

This guide provides clear instructions on how to locate the list of running applications once your device has been updated to Marshmallow or a subsequent Android version.

Important Note: The exact wording and menu structure may vary slightly depending on the specific device manufacturer and any custom Android skins applied.

We aim to provide a helpful resource for users navigating the updated Android interface and seeking to understand their device’s application activity.

Reasons for Accessing Running Services

Typically, direct access to running services isn't necessary – this is likely why Google made the setting less prominent beginning with the Marshmallow Android version. However, specific circumstances may necessitate examining the Running Services menu.

The primary justification for investigating background processes is often app malfunction. This can manifest in several ways, such as frequent crashes requiring process termination, or excessive battery drain. Identifying where to begin troubleshooting is crucial in these scenarios.

Understanding which services are active allows for targeted intervention. For instance, a rogue application consuming significant resources can be identified and stopped.

Furthermore, developers might utilize this feature for debugging purposes. Observing service behavior provides valuable insights into application performance.

When to Investigate Running Services

• App Crashes: If an application repeatedly closes unexpectedly.
• Battery Drain: When an app is consuming an unusually high amount of battery power.
• Performance Issues: If your device is running slowly or experiencing lag.
• Debugging: For developers analyzing application behavior.

It’s important to note that forcibly stopping services can sometimes lead to instability. Therefore, proceed with caution and only terminate processes if you are confident it will resolve the issue.

In many cases, simply restarting the problematic application is sufficient. However, if the problem persists, examining the Running Services menu can provide further clues.

Locating Running Services in Android 6.0

As previously mentioned, users of Android 5.x and earlier versions could readily view active processes by navigating to Settings > Apps > Running. This section displayed both running processes and services, alongside their respective memory (RAM) usage by both System and Applications, as well as the amount of available memory.

To access an equivalent function within Android Marshmallow, enabling Developer Options is initially required. This is achieved by proceeding to Settings, then selecting About Phone.

Within the About Phone menu, locate the Software info section. Its placement varies between devices; it appears as a distinct entry on some phones, such as Samsung and LG models, but is integrated directly into the About Phone screen on others, like Nexus devices.

The key element to find is the Build Number. You may need to explore the menu slightly to locate it. The images provided illustrate its location on a Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge and a Nexus 6P, demonstrating the differing placements.

Once identified, tap the Build Number seven times consecutively. A notification will appear, indicating the remaining taps required to “become a developer.” Upon reaching seven taps, a new menu will become accessible immediately above the About Phone entry within the main Settings menu.

Returning to the Settings menu, enter Developer Options. The “Running services” option will be visible within this menu. Selecting this option will present a screen identical to the one found in Android Lollipop, albeit in a new location.

This functionality is not typically needed for everyday use. However, knowing its location can be beneficial should the need arise, particularly for developers.

It’s important to remember, as the menu itself suggests, that this tool is primarily intended for development purposes.