Carriers still pushing task killers? Help us help you!
Task killers seem to be the one subject that will never die, and carriers seem to be a big part of the reason why. First things first — task killers only make things worse. I’ve said it, folks like Cyanogen have said it (for fun, try filing a bug report with CM 6 and mention that you use a task killer), and even the folks who wrote Android have said it.
So why do the carriers (notably Verizon, but I’m sure it happens elsewhere) insist on forcing one onto your new Android phone? I’ve heard from two separate sources that it is not Verizon policy, nor is it in the training to pre-install task killing software on Android phones that are being set-up, but reports of it happening (like the source link at the end of this post) are so numerous that I’m starting to wonder. This is where you come in. Cory (our forums administrator) has set up a poll asking about your purchasing experience and if it included a task manager. We need you all to answer so we know just what we’re fighting against. And a word to those of you who might be new to Android — if your carrier did install a task manager for you, do yourself a favor and uninstall it right after you vote in the poll. [Android Central Forums]
Posted originally at Android Central
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Fine tuning the MinFree settings (improving on Android’s multitasking)
Hey guys! Jerry back with another neat trick you can do on your Android phone. This one helps keep things running smoothly, and gives us some user control over Android’s internal task killer. Like most things that affect the low level operation of Android, this one requires root, but it’s a good read even for you folks who don’t feel the need to root (and break your warranty!) because you just might have a better understanding of what’s going on behind the scenes. Open up a couple extra tabs on your browser, get your phone (and maybe even your USB cable) ready and follow the break.
Oh, and a warning: This is pretty low-level stuff. It’s not hard to do, but what it does is a bit advanced. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Posted originally at Android Central
Sponsored by Android Cases and Accessories
How to properly set up and use a task killer (Oh, yes, I went there!)
Ed. note: Sorry for the problem, everybody. The column’s now here in its entirety.
Hey everybody. This week lets talk about the thorn in Android’s side – efficient task management.
Before we get started, yes I’m one of those people who will say “Stop using the task killer” as a first response to some weird questions. Lots of other pretty knowledgeable folks will say the same thing. They (we) are right. Task killer applications tend to cause a lot of problems simply because using them properly can be a bit confusing, especially with all the conflicting information out there. Follow us after the break and let’s figure this out once and for all.