Managing your iPhone 8’s open applications is a fundamental skill that ensures the device runs smoothly and maintains optimal battery life. While the interface differs from newer models with gesture navigation, the logic behind closing apps on the iPhone 8 is specific and important to understand.
Understanding the Home Button Mechanism
The iPhone 8 relies on a physical Home button combined with software gestures to manage tasks. Unlike newer iPhones that rely solely on swiping up, the 8 requires a specific multi-step process to access the app switcher. This distinction is crucial because users migrating from newer models often try the swipe method first and become frustrated when it fails.
Accessing the App Switcher
To begin the process of closing apps, you must first summon the app switcher menu. This is not done by swiping up from the bottom of the screen, as that action usually returns you to the home screen. Instead, you need to invoke a specific gesture that reveals your currently open applications.
The Correct Swipe Motion
Place your finger on the bottom edge of the screen and swipe upward very quickly. Do not hold your finger down; instead, perform a short, brisk swipe. Immediately after the swipe, you should see the home screen wallpaper slide up slightly to reveal the app switcher cards underneath.
Press and hold the Home button Opens app switcher (Older iOS versions)
Press and hold the Home button
Opens app switcher (Older iOS versions)
Swipe up rapidly from bottom Opens app switcher (Current method)
Swipe up rapidly from bottom
Opens app switcher (Current method)
Swipe up slowly from bottom Activates Control Center
Swipe up slowly from bottom
Activates Control Center
Identifying Apps to Close
Once the switcher is active, you will see horizontal cards representing every recently used app. These cards stack on top of each other, creating a layered view of your recent activity. It is important to note that not all of these apps are actively running in the background, and closing them unnecessarily is often a misconception.
Force Closing an Application
To actually terminate an app, you must locate the specific card and perform a removal gesture. Simply tapping the card will just bring that app to the foreground. You need to physically push the card off the screen to close it.
Steps to Terminate the App
After locating the app card you wish to close, place your finger on the card and slowly drag it upward toward the top of the screen. You should feel a slight resistance, and once the card clears the midpoint, it will dissolve off the edge. This action force quits the application and frees up a small portion of memory.
When to Close Apps
Many users believe that closing apps constantly will speed up their device, but iOS manages memory differently. The system suspends apps that are not in use, preventing them from consuming resources. You should only close apps if they are frozen, unresponsive, or if you are experiencing unusual battery drain that correlates with specific applications.
Alternative Navigation Tips
If you are using an external Bluetooth keyboard with your iPhone 8, you can close apps using a keyboard shortcut. Pressing the Command and Home buttons simultaneously will bring up the switcher, and pressing Command again while selecting an app will close it. This method is significantly faster for users who prefer tactile feedback over touch gestures.
