Smartphones run continuously, allowing background apps and system processes to accumulate over time. A weekly restart clears stalled processes, refreshes system resources, and can prevent small issues before they become noticeable. This restart will also help keep your phone secure and safe.
Phone restart instructions by manufacturer
- Apple iPhone: Restart your iPhone — support.apple.com
- Google Pixel (Android by Google): Restart and force restart steps — support.google.com/pixelphone
- Samsung Galaxy: Several restart/reboot options for Galaxy phones — samsung.com/support
- Motorola: How to reboot/restart Motorola Android phones — motorola.com/support
Why it works: Restarting clears temporary system states and forces the operating system to reload core services. This can free up memory, stabilize performance, and resolve minor software glitches that affect speed, battery life, or reliability.
In addition, the NSA recommends restarting your phone weekly to reduce eavesdropping, attempts at gathering data, and to reduce cyberattacks.
Additional suggestion: Limiting background app refresh can further reduce strain on your device between restarts.