I think I have solved all the problems!!!!
I had the same issues, battery drain (android core apps was the third source of battery drain) and contacts app opened very slow (it took over 10 seconds to show all my contacts).
I clear up cache, stop sync with other google accounts, stop using nova launcher... but nothing seems to work.
And finally, I take the following steps:
1. Open 'contacts'
2. 'Administrar contactos'
3. 'Mezclar'
4. 'Combinar todos'
I dont know the correct translation into english, so I attach some screenshots.
In my case, I have many problems between my contacts in Gmail and Whatsapp.
After doing that, contacts are working as usual and battery is working much more better.
Tell me if this solution is also working for you all!
View attachment 128989 View attachment 128990 View attachment 128991 View attachment 128990 View attachment 128989 View attachment 128990 View attachment 128991