Fix Google Play Services Battery Draining issue on Android

Google Play Services is an essential component of Android that helps synchronize data, manage location services, and handle app updates. It enables apps to connect with Google’s cloud services, handle updates, and manage device-to-cloud data synchronization. However, it can sometimes cause excessive battery drain due to background activity. Users report Massive battery drain by Google Play Services. This article explores common reasons behind this and How to Stop Google Play Services From Draining Android Battery.

Stop Google Play Services Draining Android battery

Google Play Services enables apps to connect with Google’s cloud services, manage updates, and synchronize data. However, it can sometimes cause excessive battery drain due to background activity.  Here are some of the Common Reasons why Google Play Services Drain Android phone Battery life.

• Frequent Syncing: Google Play Services constantly syncs data like emails, contacts, and app updates. Frequent syncing can drain battery life if too many apps are enabled for sync.
• Location Services: Apps using location data can increase the demand on Google Play Services, leading to high battery consumption.
• Background Data Usage: Google Play Services often runs background processes to support app functionality, which can contribute to battery drain, especially when updates are pending.
• Outdated Software or App Conflicts: Running outdated software or incompatible apps may cause Google Play Services to overwork, resulting in higher CPU usage and battery drain.
• Corrupt Cache or Data: Cache or data corruption within Google Play Services can also cause excessive battery drain by triggering repetitive background tasks.

Did you know: Enabling your device’s battery saver mode can also reduce the battery drain caused by Google Play Services?

Disable Unnecessary Location Services

Location services are a major source of battery drain, as they frequently request GPS data. Disabling location permissions for apps that don’t need them can reduce background activity.

• Open Settings: Go to Settings > Location.
• Check App Permissions: Under App Permissions, find apps using Google Play Services.
• Limit Access: For non-essential apps, set location access while using the app or deny it if location isn’t required.

Adjust Google Sync Settings

Again Syncing requires regular data usage, and turning off non-essential sync options can reduce background tasks and battery consumption.

• Open Settings: Go to Settings > Accounts > Google.
• Select Account: Tap your Google account.
• Disable Unnecessary Sync Options: Turn off sync options for items like Calendar or Drive if they’re not essential.

Clear Cache and Data for Google Play Services

Cached data can build up over time and cause Google Play Services to work harder than necessary. Clearing the cache and data can reset its processes and prevent unnecessary background activity.

Clearing the cache of Google Play Services can also help in reducing battery drain.

• Open Settings: Go to Settings > Apps.
• Locate Google Play Services: Tap on Google Play Services > Storage & cache.
• Clear Cache and Data: Tap Clear Cache, then Clear Data.

Update Google Play Services

This is very effective, Outdated versions may have bugs or compatibility issues, causing different problems including battery drain issues.

• Open Play Store: Go to the Google Play Store app.
• Search for Google Play Services: If an update is available, you’ll see an Update button.
• Install the Update: Tap Update and restart your device.

Keeping Google Play Services up-to-date ensures optimized performance and can reduce unnecessary battery usage.

Turn Off Background Data for Google Play Services

Again Disabling background data for Google Play Services can reduce battery consumption by limiting its access to the internet for non-essential tasks.

• Open Settings: Go to Settings > Apps > Google Play Services.
• Restrict Background Data: In the Data Usage section, toggle Background data off.

Note: This may affect app functionality, so observe any changes and decide if this option works for your needs.

Factory Reset as a Last Resort

If battery drain persists and none of the above solutions work, a factory reset can eliminate deeper issues within the Android system. This clears all software configurations and settings, providing a fresh start for all apps and services.

Note: This will restore the device to its original state. Ensure to set it up carefully, and monitor battery usage before reinstalling all apps.

• Back Up Your Data: Before proceeding, ensure all important data is backed up.
• Open Settings: Go to Settings > System > Reset options.
• Select Factory Reset: Tap on Erase all data (factory reset) and follow the prompts.

Well If battery drain continues, consider contacting your device manufacturer for support or visiting a repair center, as the issue may stem from a hardware problem.