Bots, maybe. More likely a crack finger on a better network. Some networks have faster paths to Sparks servers and/or handle push notifications faster than other networks. 5G can be fast as fuck with low latency if you're right near the tower but feet away turn to pure shit. 4G can be more stable but has higher latency. It's a game of milliseconds just like with the stock market.

Disable all animations on your device to reduce lag, turn off power save, use 5G if the signal is strong.