Does Updating Android OS Reduce Memory Usage?

The question of whether updating Android OS can reduce memory usage largely depends on several factors, including the device manufacturer, the nature of the update, and the user interface (UI) employed. Let's dive into the complexities and nuances of this topic.

Understanding OEM Customizations and Updates

When updating Android OS, the effect on memory usage is highly dependent on the manufacturer (OEM) and their specific approach to delivering updates. OEMs, such as Samsung, Motorola, and others, tailor their updates to include various features and optimizations, which can impact system performance and memory management.

It is not mandatory that every update will lead to a reduction in memory usage. However, it is indeed possible under certain circumstances. Touching base with the OEM for detailed information is always recommended. These updates are designed to enhance the functionalities, security, and overall user experience, but they may also introduce new features that can utilize additional memory.

Example Comparisons: Moto G3 vs Samsung Galaxy J7

Let's take a closer look at two specific devices to get a better understanding of the impact of updates on memory usage and performance:

Moto G3:

The Moto G3 generally relies on the stock Android UI, which is lighter on resources. When an update comes through, especially a minor security update, the impact on the system is minimal, and there's little change in memory usage. This is because the stock Android UI does not heavily burden the processor or RAM.

Samsung Galaxy J7 (TouchWiz UI):

In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy J7, which runs on TouchWiz, has a more resource-intensive user interface. Updates to this device can cause more significant changes in memory usage and performance. TouchWiz is known for its heavy resource consumption, especially on mid-range devices. When an update is installed, it can cause the software to become bloated, leading to potential performance issues and increased memory usage.

Fragmentation and Update Size

The impact of an update on memory can also be influenced by the fragmentation of the system and the size of the update. Major OS updates, such as those moving from Android KitKat to Lollipop, involve significant changes.

Android Lollipop (Android 5.0) and Beyond:

One of the key differences between Lollipop and previous versions, like KitKat (Android 4.4), is the Android Runtime (ART). ART replaces the Dalvik virtual machine (VM) with a native runtime, which compiles apps into machine code that is larger in size. This can result in increased memory usage. For users upgrading to Android Lollipop or higher, the update does introduce a more memory-intensive environment, but this is a trade-off for enhanced performance and features.

For those concerned about memory usage, it's crucial to consider the size of the update. Minor security updates are generally essential and should not cause significant issues. However, major OS updates might require more system resources and could temporarily affect performance, especially if the device is already low on memory.

Conclusion

Whether an Android OS update will reduce memory usage is a highly conditional question. It is possible, but not guaranteed, and the actual impact can vary widely depending on the device and update specifics. Users should be mindful of these factors when planning updates and consider contacting their OEM for detailed insights.