How to Stop Running Apps on a Galaxy Tablet

Unlike more single-minded devices, the latest Galaxy tablets have a talent for multitasking. This means closing an app doesn't always stop it from running. With a few taps, you can easily ensure an app has stopped running before you start on your next project.

Go Home When You're Done

Press the "Home" button below the screen when you're finished with any Android™ app on your Galaxy tablet. This returns you to the tablet's home screen so you can open another app. However, the last app may still be running in the background.

Drag to Quickly Close an App

To completely close an app, press the "Recent" button, formerly the Menu button. A list of your recent apps appears at the bottom of the screen. Drag any preview icon up or down with your finger to close an app. To close all the apps, just tap the "Close All" icon.

Stop Problem Apps Fast

If an app has frozen or become unresponsive, press the "Home" button. If the app has also frozen the Home button, power down your tablet and turn it on again. From the Home screen, slide your finger down from the top edge of the screen and tap the gear-shaped "Settings" icon.

Force Problem Apps to Stop

From the Settings screen, tap the "General" tab and select "Application Manager." Tap the problem app to see the app info. Tap the "Force Stop" button to stop the app from running.

Uninstall and Reinstall

If you have consistently had problems with an app, tap the "Uninstall" button from the Applications Manager screen. You can then download an updated version of the app from Samsung Galaxy Apps or Google Play. Apps you paid for can be reinstalled without incurring an additional charge.