Android 5.1 Lollipop introduced significant performance improvements over its predecessors (Android 4.4 KitKat), including:
For GTA SA, which demands stable frame rates in chaotic areas like Los Santos or the countryside, Android 5.1 provides a stable foundation, provided your hardware meets the minimum specs. gta sa android 5.1
One of the biggest hurdles for GTA SA on mobile was the control scheme. Replacing a DualShock 2 controller with a touchscreen was a controversial move. However, Rockstar implemented a "Dynamic Control System" that was revolutionary for its time. Android 5
The PSP version of GTA: Vice City Stories and Liberty City Stories run flawlessly on Android 5.1 via the PPSSPP emulator. It is not San Andreas, but offers a similar vibe with lower hardware demands. For GTA SA, which demands stable frame rates
Cause: GPU driver issues on Android 5.1. Fix: Go to Developer Options → Disable “HW Overlays” (force GPU to render every frame). You must do this every reboot.