How to Fix “Android Is Starting Optimizing App” Error

Why Does Android Get Stuck at Optimizing Apps on Startup

Before we get started on fixing this issue, let us briefly look at what might be causing your Android device to get stuck on optimizing apps:

• A newly installed app is incompatible or optimized with your current Android OS version, causing Android to optimize it on every device boot.
• You have recently updated your Android device OS version, causing most apps to be optimized to run properly.
• You have previously saved an app on the SD card instead of your device memory, prompting your device to optimize it on every startup.
• Your device cache is causing issues with app optimization.
• An app you downloaded was not installed properly, causing it to require constant optimization.

Basic Fixes:

• Wait a while: Before you start troubleshooting, we suggest waiting a while and seeing if the issue resolves itself. Certain devices with low CPU power might take longer than usual when performing such tasks. 
• Unplug the charger and restart: If you constantly restart your device while plugged in, you might face the Android optimizing apps on startup error. To fix this, unplug your device before restarting. This will help fix this issue and might also reduce the startup time in some cases.
• Remove and re-insert SD card: Once your Android device completely shuts down, manually remove the SD card from the slot. Wait a while before re-inserting it back into the dedicated slot. Once done, long-press the power button and restart your Android device. Then, check again. 

Fix 1: Boot in Safe Mode

Booting your Android device in Safe mode allows you to use it without third-party interference. It is also an excellent way to gauge if any rouge app is causing your Android device to constantly optimize apps when starting up. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Long-press the Power button to open the power menu. Now, press and hold the Power off button.

Step 2: Here, tap on Safe mode.

If the issue goes away, a recently installed app might be the culprit. You can uninstall it to resolve the issue. Additionally, reboot your device to exit Safe mode on Android.

Fix 2: Uninstall Recently Installed Apps

Certain apps might not work properly with your current Android OS version. When this happens, it might cause your device to be stuck on optimizing them every time you restart it. If this problem starts after installing a particular app, uninstall that app from your Android device. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Long-press the app you wish to delete. Once the options appear, tap on Uninstall.

Step 2: Tap on OK to confirm. Repeat these steps to uninstall any other recently installed app.

Tip: You can manually check and install the latest app updates. This can help ensure the apps are compatible with your device’s updated Android OS version.

Fix 3: Wipe Cache Partition

Your device also collects all sorts of cache over time. While we can’t clear it the regular way, you can use Recovery Mode on your Android device to wipe away the cache partition. This might help you fix the Android update stuck at optimizing apps issue. Follow the below steps to do it.

Note: This option might not be available for certain newer Android devices.

Step 1: Shut down your device. Then, simultaneously press and hold the volume up and Power buttons until your phone turns on.

Step 2: Use the device touch screen or the volume buttons and navigate to the Wipe Cache Partition option.

Step 3: Press the Power button to select it.

Once done, reboot your Android device normally and see if the issue has been fixed. You can also check our guide if Recovery mode is not working on your Android phone.