Background app refresh for text and voice-data apps

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Background app refresh for text and voice-data apps

I've read several descriptions of background app refresh. From how it's supposed to operate to apps and functions that are exempt(?) from the toggle. None of them have explained, specifically how the switch affects texting and voice-data apps.

I use apps like WhatsApp, Google Voice, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Telegram, etc.. Many of these have both texting and voice call abilities. How does turning off the background app refresh affect these apps' ability to function? Will I still receive incoming phone calls or texts? WIll I still get notified about missed calls or incoming texts? How about security apps? I'd like to get the notification when my security camera is tripped.

I understand that I could test these apps and functions but I need to know how the actual background app refresh toggle is supposed to operate (from the iOS side) since each app may behave differently depending on internal app settings, app bugs, or different versions of the app installed.

Posted on Jun 10, 2020 6:04 AM

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Answer 1

raina_b22

Community Specialist

Jun 12, 2020 3:26 PM in response to alceryes3

Hi there, alceryes3.

I see that you like to know how Background App Refresh works when using your iPhone. I'm glad to help with this.

Switch apps on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch -- Refer to the information under "Use Background App Refresh” lower down in this article. Background App Refresh allows apps that you aren't currently using but haven’t quit to check for updates and new content. When you start using the application again, you'll see any new content that's been received. If you choose to turn this feature off, you may need to refresh the page manually by pulling the page down from the top.

Since it runs in the background, your iPhone will function as it normally does. You'll still be able to make and take phone calls and receive notifications from your apps.

Take care.

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Background app refresh for text and voice-data apps

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