15 Must-Know Tips for Android Users
Android's simplicity and approachability with its phones make it a favorite worldwide. Each new version of this Google operating system brings a flurry of new features, keeping up with the latest trends in technology.
A few swipes and taps can transform our usage style completely. While some features are popular, the rest, despite their functionality, get lost in the crowd. Many of these features enhance your digital experience but are buried under the hype.
From utility features to fun little games, an Android smartphone is a powerhouse of convenience. These are our picks for the most overlooked elements Android users tend to miss.
1. Android Version Names
Android used to name its versions after desserts and treats. This trait was exclusive to Android, and many users looked forward to new versions for their whimsical designs and colorful choices.
Some of the more memorable choices are jelly bean, lollipop, marshmallow, nougat, and pie. While many treasured these names, they're sadly fading in the modern versions. They were in alphabetical order, which ceased with the letter Q.
2. Enable Android Developer Mode
These hidden settings enable you to access some secret features. The developer mode allows for monitoring background app activity, setting different volume levels for Bluetooth devices, keeping mobile data active for quicker data switching, and more.
Android app developers are meant to use this mode, so some options require caution. For example, keeping the screen awake for extended periods may cause burn-in (permanent etching) in AMOLED screens. Be sure to only experiment with settings you know about.
3. Default Apps
Some apps are better than others, or people just prefer different interfaces to conduct their tasks. It's all about making your smartphone comfortable to use. One of the first things to do when purchasing an Android mobile phone is to change the default apps to those you're more familiar with.
Android makes this decision easy. In Settings, go to Apps and open Default Apps. Then, you just choose your favorite apps for default use. This makes your life easier when operating your phone.
4. Organize Apps into Folders
This clever trick allows you to organize your phone into the interface you like the best. Not only does this make apps more straightforward to find, but it also looks clean and breezy. The neat freaks love it; they can cluster apps into custom categories.
It's not rocket science. Scroll to your apps and select the multiples you want to include in your folder. Tap on the create folder option, and voila. All apps are neatly assorted into a compact form, which can be named, formatted, and moved around.
5. Widgets
Widgets carry information at a glance. This beats the nuisance of opening numerous apps to find details that could be a click away.
From calendar events, to-do lists, and clocks to social media pages and galleries, Widgets organize everything into a compact form and display it on the home screen.
The procedure is standard for most Android mobile phones. Tap and hold on to your main screen until the Widgets option pops up. Then, browse through the apps compatible with Widgets. Hold and drag it to the home screen and customize it to your preference.
6. Split Screen
This one's for the multitaskers. It's always handy to use two desktops to streamline your work. But what if the same option is available on your mobile device? Most Android-equipped devices allow you to operate two apps at once.
This attribute does not apply to all apps, but several leading ones take advantage of it. To use it, open your recent apps, tap the menu icon, and select “Split Screen.” Drag in your preferred applications and adjust the margins to your liking.
7. One-Handed Mode
Most of us look forward to cozying up in bed with our smartphones after a long day of work, even though it's not the best idea to spend hours on our phones right before we sleep. But if that's the plan for the night, one-handed mode makes lounging even more comfortable. This feature is particularly convenient for those with small hands or other accessibility issues.
Simply toggle one-handed mode in the system settings. Swipe down on your screen to activate it, and type away. Many Android devices have this feature built-in. The one-handed mode can also save you from your phone falling onto your face.
8. Wi-Fi Sharing Through QR Codes
As a host, you know how bothersome it is to repeat a Wi-Fi password to several guests. QR codes come in handy in large gatherings. You only need a scanner camera and a smartphone connected to the Wi-Fi network.
Access the Wi-Fi section from the dropdown menu or settings and touch the gear icon beside the desired Wi-Fi network. Select the QR code option or tap “Share” to loan the network without fuss. You'll only need to scan it for pinless entry.
9. Chrome Dinosaur Game Widget on the Home Screen
We've all had the pixelated dinosaur face-plant onto a cactus or dive right into a bird at some point. This game may hinder your productivity, but it's a delightful time-killer. You can add the Chrome dinosaur game as a widget to your home screen for instant access to fun.
To enable the widget, tap and hold on your screen until the option appears. Select the Chrome Dino under Chrome and add it to your screen. To play, tap the newly added widget and beat the desert's antics.
10. Smart Lock
Entering a high-security password to access your smartphone can be a hassle. This property lets you harness the power of Google Maps, making unlocking your phone easier at home. Disable your lock screen in places you feel the safest to avoid dealing with security issues at all times, ensuring your peace of mind.
Open Settings, Passwords, and Security, then proceed to System Security. Tap on the Smart Lock tab and select Trusted Places. Choose the locations where threats evade you and turn off the finicky lock.
11. App Pinning
Everyone knows how annoying it is when you show a picture to your family members on your phone, but before you know it, they start opening and looking at other apps. No one appreciates this breach of privacy. What if there was a way to prevent it from the outset?
You can pass your phone along and keep the borrowing user locked in within the app of concern by conveniently toggling App Pinning. After turning it on in your security settings, select the pin option on your current apps from the icon over it.
12. Magnifying Glass
Some things are just too small to see, or you may just want to edit your pictures easily. Android 14 introduced this ingenious innovation, allowing users to play Sherlock Holmes with magnifying glasses.
This option is in the Accessibility section in Settings. After turning it on, a shortcut of a red magnifying glass will appear on your screen. You can call it to action by tapping the icon as needed. It allows you to move it around and zoom in further if things get complex.
13. Live Caption
This accessibility feature was an unexpected addition but significantly revolutionized the operating system sector. It generates real-time captions for audio playing on your mobile device. In addition to aiding those who need it, it can benefit you in social situations when you're stranded without earbuds.
Toggling brings a rectangular icon to your screen. Tapping the Live Caption icon whenever the device gives audio output enables this feature. Moreover, you can enlarge its size by double-tapping and maneuvering it around by dragging it.
14. Notification History
We're all watchful of our browsing history, but what about the notifications that keep knocking on our phones? Or what if someone accidentally swipes away a pop-up message you wanted to see? All of these problems come with a solution.
You can maintain a 24-hour record of your notifications by opening Settings and accessing More Settings within the Notifications tab. Toggle Notification history and enjoy your pocketbook of your contacts bombarding you.
15. Secret Mini Game
Each Android version entertains users with a mini-game — or an easter egg. It's a nifty little trick that engages users with animations and vibrant colors. While slight differences exist in each update, they're nearly identical for all variations.
To access it, open Settings and scroll down to About Phone. There, open Software information and repeatedly tap the Android version until the screen loads into a frenzy of colors or shapes. Depending on the version, an icon shows up. For example, Android 14's logo loads into a spaceship mini-game.
