Android mobile platforms are arguably the best for versatility and modifications. This also means that you may end up having a lot of clutter on your phone. As you might expect, this will lead to your phone performing slower than you would want. In such scenarios, clearing up your system is the best way to restore your performance parameters to previous levels.
With that in mind, not all apps can be deleted without consequence. Certain apps such as the Android Systems Webview are crucial to the proper performing of tasks. So, before you go about trying to delete apps to make space and improve efficiency, take a look at the Android Systems Webview app and why it is important for your phone.
What is Android System WebView? What Does It Do?
According to the official Google-backed definition of the Android System Webview app, it is powered by Chrome that loads app-specific web pages without needing the browser to do so. This means the app is designed to facilitate in-app page loading instead of needing to route new pages outside of the scope of third-party apps. So, if you deleted this app, then you would not be able to use your apps in an efficient way. In sum, you will need to open the browser every time you opened a new page. This is obviously not just slower, but would also use up more of your data. Of course, this requires that you must maintain Android Systems Webview app on your device if you want these functions to run properly.
Do I have to Install Android System WebView?
The current version of Android is more user-friendly than other previous ones. While earlier, it was part of the general systems, utility function, it was, later on, made separate so that it could operate independently. This eliminated many vulnerabilities, which had been identified by its pen testers on previous versions. The new version allows for far more versatility in use and modification, especially for those who like using Android for customizing their devices. The app itself runs as a background and ensures that all your apps can run smoothly.
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Should You Disable Android System Webview?
It is possible to disable Android Systems Webview from the settings section of your device. It can also be added up with the browser to generate clicked pages within apps as needed by compiling a library of links or apps which need to open separately. This is particularly useful for app developers since they can use the WebView library to execute JavaScript and render pages directly from in-app. If you are doing this then you will need to include Android Manifest files along with WebView code. This will help you specify how the ASW will execute the command.
Does the ASW Functionality Still Exist on Android Nougat?
If you are operating on the Nougat processors, then you may notice that your ASW app is not activated. This has primarily been done to save the battery consumption on phones. With Nougat, the device began using Chrome as WebView for greater efficiency. So, if you are using the latest versions of Android, then you will not be using ASW as a mainstay of your system functions. So, you have the free option to either keep the ASW app or remove it if you do not want to have it on your device.
The Bottom Line: Enable or Disable?
For most people, retaining a default setting on their devices is the best thing to do. However, if you are adept at mobile coding or work with applications then you may want to keep it since it can be of considerable use. It can help you perform quality tests and runtime status checks on your in-development apps. Otherwise, if you feel that it is taking up space, you can always remove it.
