Android operating system is rather flexible and allows for customization with numerous features meant to improve the overall operation. Most users are aware of the primary operations; however, Android has abundant hidden gems, tricks, and tips that optimize the usage of the device.
These techniques need to be understood to go for the best in an Android smartphone or tablet. Here are a few tips, but you can learn more from Android and grademiners experts for enhanced optimization.
Unlock Developer Options
Developer Options are concealed menu settings that contain a lot of features and options for the device. To unlock it, go to Settings > About Phone and click on the Build Number option approximately seven times. After enabling it, developers or users can check it by going to the mobile Phone’s system settings. Here are a few useful tweaks you can make:
- Window Animation Scale: Animate those elements and decrease the animation scale to 0. 5x or turn off your device to fast forward and increase the speed of your device, respectively.
- Force GPU Rendering: Ameliorate how applications render images by compelling those who draw 2D images to do it through the GPU.
Split-Screen Multitasking
This feature lets users perform two operations simultaneously by splitting their screen in half. To activate it:
- Swiping the App out of the screen is one of the simplest gestures: Recent Apps Menu.
- Press the icon placed at the top of one of the applications.
- Select the Split Screen, and then select the second application to open.
This model is good for the side-by-side use of a video and scrolling through social media or when notetaking during a video call.
Smart Lock
Smart Lock is the feature that helps your device remain unlocked in the environment you trust the most so that you do not have to enter your PIN or pattern every time. Smart Lock can be accessed by navigating to Other Security Settings by opening Settings -> Security -> Smart Lock. Options include:
- Trusted Places: Keep the device unlocked by locking it in certain locations such as the home or workplace.
- Trusted Devices: Allow your Phone to be unlocked at the instance when the Bluetooth activated is a known one.
Customize Quick Settings
These are some quick-settings options because they allow access to functions with one swipe. To customize:
- Pull down the quick setting option from the top of the Android mobile screen.
- Place the cursor over the message and click on the pencil, as it enables you to edit the message.
This will allow users to drag and drop the icons to a new position or place new shortcuts or icons in the preferred order.
One-Handed Mode
Big-screen smartphones have a feature called one-handed mode, which allows the smartphone to be used with a single hand. To activate it:
- On Samsung devices, swipe diagonally at the bottom corners of the screen.
- On other devices, it may be switched on in Settings > Advanced Features or set up using other apps.
Screenshot Shortcut
Taking screenshots is a common task, and Android offers several shortcuts to make it easier:
- In most gadgets, using the Power button and the Down volume button at the same time will enter this mode.
- For most Samsung devices with a home button, just hold down the Power and Home buttons.
- To capture the screen, use the Quick Settings shortcut.
Hidden Easter Eggs
As a rule, Android versions have some kind of humor connected with it. To access them:
- Contrary to the previous method, you must go to Settings, then About Phone.
- Press the Android Version several times for a pop-up to appear with the Easter egg.
- For instance, Android 10 has a nonogram puzzle game concealed in this menu.
Google Assistant Shortcuts
Google Assistant can do much more than answering questions, as has once again been exemplified here. Create custom shortcuts for frequent tasks:
- Press the Home button or swipe right on your device to open the Google Assistant; click the Explore icon in the lower right corner of the window.
- Click My Stuff and go to Shortcuts.
- Establish new shortcodes such as “Send a text message to [contact’s name]” or “Switch on the flashlight. “
Screen Pinning
It is a security feature that locks a screen with a particular application, and with this, other applications you own cannot be accessed. To enable:
- Turn screen pinning on by going to Settings > Security > Screen Pinning.
- Launch the application that you wish to have in the bar of frequently used applications.
- Press on Overview, and then the Pin icon will appear.
Battery Saver Tips
As students, we know the importance of having a long-lasting battery. Sometimes, you need to catch up with friends, complete your online assignments, or link with an essay writing service for academic help. If this is the case, you can extend your battery life with these tips:
- Turn on Battery Saver from Settings Battery
- Turn off the Smart-adjust feature and set the screen’s brightness level yourself
- To conserve power on OLED screens, turn on the Dark Mode
- Limit background running of apps known to drain the battery in Settings > Apps & notifications > [App] > Battery.
Conclusion
Hidden features and shortcuts that are not very apparent are some of the unique features of Android that are interesting for a user. So many hidden features are still unknown to so many people, even those who have been using these devices for years, and this is why it is good that they take their time and discover how to optimize these devices for their everyday use.
It can be even the first time a user tries an Android device or has been using it for years; there is always a feature they did not know about that can enhance their experience. Take the plunge and explore these features to learn how these features change the use of an Android device.
