6 Proven Tricks to Make Mobile Apps Feel Faster

1. Backend Execution

Core idea: Run loading programs in the status bar so users can do other things.

Example:

A. Instagram

When the “like” button is tapped, its label instantly changes to “Liked”.

The red loading icon in the screenshot is actually a background process.

This avoids a one‑second wait and prevents the spinning circle when the network is slow.

B. Weibo platform

After posting a comment, the comment appears instantly in the list, but the recipient does not receive a notification immediately because the message is still loading in the background (see status bar).

The background task lets the user continue browsing other comments without delay.

2. Show Content Before Loading Completes

Core idea: Make users feel the product information appears quickly.

Example:

A. App Store detail page

When a user opens a detail page from a list, the top area displays product information instantly without a loading indicator.

This gives the impression that content appears immediately after the tap.

3. Make Full Use of Caching

Core idea: Use cache mechanisms to speed up page opening.

Example: “Chanyouji” travel notes and “Momo” add‑friend pages both use caching.

Cache stores network data locally, so subsequent openings do not need another network request, reducing traffic and wait time.

During design, you can first show cached content while fetching fresh data in the background, then replace it when new data arrives.

4. UI First, Network Later

Core idea: For small data interactions with low failure risk, or when offline, let users continue using the app.

Example: WeChat Moments “post picture” and Weibo “favorite” features.

WeChat Moments allows posting pictures offline; the content uploads automatically when network returns, providing a smooth experience.

Weibo’s favorite action works similarly: the app loads in the background while the user continues other tasks.

5. Predict User Behavior and Start Tasks Early

Core idea: Anticipate the next user action and prepare the path in advance.

Example:

A. NetEase Cloud Reading

When a user scrolls from a list to a detail page, the next item is already loaded, and scrolling up returns to the previous item, matching typical user habits.

This avoids the need to go back to the list to select another item.

B. Android update reminder

After an APK finishes downloading automatically, the system prompts the user, eliminating the wait for manual download.

6. Minimize User Input and Provide Rich Suggestions

Core idea: Virtual keyboards on mobile have limited space and can cause mistaps; providing suggestions reduces typing effort.

Example:

A. Baidu Maps

When typing “Wanda International Cinema” in the search box, the app instantly shows related results after a few characters, making it easy to find the desired location.

This reduces the amount of typing required and offers a user‑friendly experience.