Beyond speed, battery life is a critical factor where custom ROMs outshine the stock firmware. As lithium-ion batteries age, their capacity degrades. The Xperia XA1, with its non-removable battery, requires software efficiency to compensate for this hardware limitation. Stock firmware often includes background services and pre-installed applications that drain power silently. Custom ROMs offer granular control over these processes. Many ROMs come with optimized kernels and power-management features that the manufacturer did not prioritize. Users often report a significant increase in screen-on time after switching to a custom ROM, effectively extending the usable lifespan of the phone without the need to carry a power bank.
: Use ADB to remove "nagging" pre-installed apps without needing root. Downgrading sony xperia xa1 custom rom better
The XA1’s 2300mAh battery (or 3430mAh on the Plus) was mediocre in 2017. In 2025, with stock software, background Google Play Services and Sony diagnostics wreck the battery. Beyond speed, battery life is a critical factor