How to Close All Active Apps on an Android Phone

Perform a Soft Reset

1. Tap the 'Power' button once to unlock your device screen.

2. Press the 'Power' button again for approximately two seconds. The 'Power Options' menu will appear. Touch 'Power Off.' You phone will power down.

3. Press the 'Power' button to turn your phone back on. Your phone will reboot, and any previously open applications will be closed.

Using a Task Killer

4. Touch the 'Applications' launcher, located on your home screen. Your full list of apps will open.

5. Touch the 'Market' icon. The Android Market will open. Touch the magnifying glass icon, located in the top right corner of the screen. A search box opens.

6. Type 'task killer' into the search box. A list of matching applications will display -- may are available. Touch an application's name to read detailed information and user reviews.

7. Touch 'Download' to download the application. Review the permissions displayed on the page, then touch 'Accept and Download.' The task killer application will be installed and appear in your main menu. Touch the 'Home' key to return to your home screen.

8. Touch the 'Applications' launcher to open your list of applications. Touch the icon for the task killer you just installed. A list of running applications displays.

9. Touch the check boxes next to the applications you wish to close, or touch 'All.' Touch 'Kill Selected Apps' to close the applications.