March 9, 2024
Maximize Your Android Phone with these handy hacks and shortcuts.
From customization to productivity enhancements, these tips will help you get the most out of your device.
Depending on how up to date your mobile is, not all of these tips may be available.
1. Customize Quick Settings
Add Tiles: Swipe down to open Quick Settings, tap the pencil icon to edit, and add tiles for features like Do Not Disturb, Mobile Hotspot, and Screen Recording.
2. Use Split Screen Mode
Multitask Efficiently: Open the recent apps menu (next to Home button used for Close All), tap the app icon, and select “Split screen.” Choose the second app to use them side-by-side. To return to full screen just drag one of the apps up or down.
3. Enable Developer Options
Access Hidden Features: Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Information tap “Build Number” seven times. Enter your pin. Go back to settings and you will see listed Developer Options, you can tweak animations, enable USB debugging, and more. Whilst you can fine tune performance, you should only do this if you are confident to do so otherwise you may change critical settings.
4. Save Battery with Dark Mode
Activate Dark Mode: Go to Settings > Display > Dark Theme. This reduces battery consumption on OLED screens and is easier on the eyes.
5. Smart Lock
Keep Your Phone Unlocked: Use Smart Lock to keep your phone unlocked in trusted places, near trusted devices, or through on-body detection. Go to Settings > Security > Smart Lock.
6. Use Google Assistant Routines
Automate Tasks: Create routines in the Google Home app to automate tasks like adjusting settings, sending messages, or playing music with a single command.
7. One-Handed Mode
Easier One-Handed Use: Enable one-handed mode for easier use of large screens. Go to Settings > Advanced Features > One-handed mode.
8. Screen Pinning
Lock an App to the Screen: Enable screen pinning in Settings > Security > Screen pinning. Pin an app from the recent apps menu to lock it to the screen, useful for letting others use your phone safely.
9. Manage Notifications
Customize Notifications: Long-press a notification to access settings, where you can prioritize, mute, or block notifications from specific apps.
10. Use Widgets
Home Screen Widgets: Add widgets for quick access to information and functionality. Long-press the home screen, select Widgets, and choose from available options.
11. Digital Wellbeing
Monitor Usage: Use Digital Wellbeing features to monitor your screen time and set app usage limits. Go to Settings > Digital Wellbeing & parental controls.
12. Gesture Navigation
Smooth Navigation: Switch to gesture navigation for a more fluid experience. Go to Settings > System > Gestures > System navigation.
13. Instant Translation
Translate Text Quickly: Use Google Translates Tap to Translate feature. Enable it in the Translate app settings to translate text within any app.
14. Use Adaptive Battery
Extend Battery Life: Enable Adaptive Battery in Settings > Battery > Adaptive Battery to limit battery use for apps you rarely use.
15. Hidden Easter Eggs
Discover Fun Features: Android versions often include hidden Easter eggs. Go to Settings > About Phone > tap on “Android Version” multiple times and explore the hidden features.
16. Restrict Background Data
Save data and battery life by limiting background data usage for specific apps. Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > [App name] > Data usage > Background data.
17. Check Notification History
Review dismissed notifications or find important ones you accidentally swiped away. Long-press an empty area on your home screen, select “Widgets,” and add the “Settings” widget. Then choose “Notification log.”
18. Translate Text
Use Google Lens or Google Translate to translate text from images or real-world objects.
19. Live Transcribe
Enable real-time transcription for conversations or lectures. Install the “Live Transcribe” app from the Play Store.
20. Delete Cookies
Clear cookies and cached data from your browser to improve performance and privacy. Navigate to your browser settings and find the option to clear cookies and site data.
From multitasking and customization to battery saving and security, these tips will help you make the most of your Android phone. Experiment with these hacks to find the ones that best fit your needs and preferences.
Do please tell us of any tips you may have for Android users.
Read our post on useful mobile apps
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