Dealing with the dreaded “Android is starting optimizing apps” message can be a real pain, especially if it gets stuck or keeps popping up. Usually, this happens after a system update or when the device’s files get a little cluttered, but it’s not always clear what actually causes it. Luckily, there are a few tried-and-true tricks to get past this hurdle. These fixes aim to speed up the process or even eliminate the issue altogether, saving you from staring at a frozen screen for what feels like forever.
Most of these fixes involve simple steps like clearing caches or uninstalling recently added apps — stuff that might seem small, but can make a difference. Just keep in mind, sometimes the solution requires patience or a bit of trial and error. On one setup it worked quick, on another it needed a restart or a cache wipe. So, don’t get discouraged if you have to try a couple of things. Often, the fix is surprisingly straightforward once you figure out what’s holding up the process.
How to Fix Android Is Starting Optimizing Apps
Give it More Time — Sometimes, patience is key
This one sounds obvious, but maybe it’s worth mentioning. If your device just finished a big update or a bunch of apps auto-optimized, it might take a little while to finish. Android is crunching a lot in the background, especially if your storage is crowded or RAM is under pressure. If it feels like forever, give it at least 15-30 minutes, or even more, especially if you haven’t rebooted recently. Weirdly enough, on some phones, it feels stuck at a certain percentage, but then suddenly jumps forward after a while. No idea why, but I’ve seen it happen — might be some behind-the-scenes indexing or cache rebuilding going on.
Clear Google Play Services Cache — Keeps things running smooth
If Google Play Services has corrupt cache files, those can mess up app optimization or cause bootloader hiccups. Clearing the cache can fix that. Here’s how:
- Open Settings > Apps > See all apps (or App Management, depending on your phone).
- Scroll down to find and tap Google Play Services.
- Tap on Storage & cache.
- Tap Clear Cache. Sometimes, clearing data can help too, but that resets some preferences.
This is good if you notice issues with Google Play Store or app installs or updates acting weird. Because of course, Android has to make it harder than necessary.
Uninstall Recent Apps — Could be conflicting apps
New apps can sometimes mess with the OS stability, especially if they aren’t well-coded or are from shady sources. If you installed a new app right before the ‘optimizing’ issue started, consider removing it:
- Find the new app by long-pressing the app icon or going to Settings > Apps.
- Select the app, then tap on Uninstall.
This step is kind of a no-brainer, but you might be surprised how often a new app causes conflicts. It’s worth testing if the problem goes away after uninstalling.
Reset Network Settings — Fix weird network hiccups
Network glitches might cause delays or hang-ups during system operations, especially if your device tries to reach servers or sync data during optimization. Resetting network settings can refresh all your Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data configurations.
- Navigate to Settings > System > Reset options (path may vary).
- Select Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
- Confirm the reset and allow the device to reboot.
This often fixes connectivity issues that could be tying up processes during boot.
Restart the device — Sometimes, it just needs a quick reboot
Sounds trivial, but turning your device off and back on can clear out temporary glitches or stuck processes. Hold down the power button, then tap Restart. After it’s back up, check if it still gets stuck at ‘optimizing apps’.If it does, move on to more involved fixes.
Reinsert the SD card — Rougher fix, but worth a shot
If you’re using an SD card, sometimes corrupt or poorly seated cards can interfere during boot or optimization phases. Pull out the SD card, reboot, then put it back after the system starts. This can sometimes reset a bad link or fix slowdowns caused by storage issues.
Update all apps — Keep everything current
Outdated apps or system components can cause compatibility issues, especially after a major update. To quickly see what needs updating:
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Tap on your profile picture at the top right.
- Select Manage apps & device.
- If updates are available, you’ll see a notification. Tap Update all.
Keeping things current helps smooth out compatibility and bug-related hiccups.
Beware of sideloaded apps — Not everything from outside Google Play is safe
Installing APKs from shady sources can introduce bugs or conflicts. If you’ve sideloaded apps lately, consider deleting them if the problem surfaced afterwards. Better safe than sorry, especially if they aren’t from a trusted developer or source. Always prefer official stores and verified apps.
Wipe Cache Partition — For stubborn, stuck system issues
This is a bit more involved but effective if nothing else works:
- Power off your device completely.
- Press and hold volume up + power simultaneously until recovery options show.
- Use the volume keys to navigate to Wipe Cache Partition and confirm with power.
- Wait for the process to finish, then reboot.
It clears out system cache that might be causing slowdowns or freezes during optimization.
Final Words
These methods have helped many users shake off the “Android is starting optimizing apps” hiccup. If nothing clicks, trying a factory reset can be a last-ditch effort — just don’t forget to back up first. Sometimes it’s a slow process, but patience pays off. Experience shows that most times, one of these will do the trick or at least reduce the wait a lot.
Summary
- Let the device sit for a while after updates
- Clear Google Play Services cache
- Uninstall recent or problematic apps
- Reset network settings
- Reboot your device
- Reinsert SD card if used
- Update all apps from the Play Store
- Be cautious with sideloaded apps
- Wipe cache partition if needed
Wrap-up
Overall, most fixes boil down to clearing caches, removing problematic apps, or giving the device a restart, sometimes all at once. Not sure why it works, but after doing a couple of these, the system tends to behave better. Fingers crossed this helps — hopefully, this shaves off a few hours for someone trying to get past that annoying screen.