If notifications only show up when you manually open the app, your phone manufacturer aggressive battery saving manager is killing background sync processes.
Why This Problem Happens
- Android Doze mode freezing network polling.
- App set to “Optimized” or “Restricted” battery usage.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Procedure
Step 1: Set App Battery Usage to “Unrestricted”
Objective: Prevent OS from sleeping the messaging daemon.
- Long-press your messaging app icon (e.g. WhatsApp, Gmail) and tap App Info (i).
- Tap Battery > Select “Unrestricted”.
Step 2: Enable Unrestricted Data Usage
Objective: Allow sync over data saver.
- In App Info > Mobile data & Wi-Fi, toggle ON “Unrestricted data usage” and “Background data”.
Step 3: Verify Notification Categories are Enabled
Objective: Check fine-grained channel toggles.
- In App Info > Notifications, ensure master switch is ON and individual channels (messages, mentions) are toggled ON.
Verified Troubleshooting Tips
- Visit dontkillmyapp.com for brand-specific instructions on OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Samsung battery optimization bypasses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Gmail delay new email alerts on Android?
Gmail sync frequency is throttled by Google sync power policies. Disabling battery optimization for Gmail restores instant push notifications.