Last year, Google introduced a new experimental runtime with Android 4.4 KitKat, dubbed ART or Android RunTime (check this video to see the benefits of ART compared to the default runtime in Android, Dalvik). Up until recently, the only devices that featured ART support were the Nexus devices from Google and the Moto G and X. Thankfully, most of the newer generation flagship handsets now feature ART support, including Samsung’s Galaxy S5. The option to enable it, however, is buried under Developer options, which is hidden from the users by default.

Even though ART is still in experimental stages, it brings a major performance boost in some apps and also makes switching between them faster. On my Galaxy S5, I instantly noticed a huge difference in speed in not just switching between apps, but also in launching and closing them.

Below are the steps to enable ART on your Samsung Galaxy S5:

Step 1: Head over to Settings -> About Device. Tap on Build Number for 7 times to enable Developer options.

Step 2: Now, head back to the Settings menu where you will find Developer Options under System.

Step 3: Inside Developer Options, tap on ART from the Select Runtime system option.

After you enable ART, your Galaxy S5 will automatically reboot itself. The first boot is going to take a long time (up to 10-15 mins) as the code for all the installed apps on the device is pre-compiled. Also, keep in mind that apps are going to take a slightly longer time for installation and uninstallation under ART. You will also notice a slight dip in your storage space as well.

Did you notice any significant change in performance after switching to ART? Drop in a comment and do let us know!