Chances are, you’re already used to the mainstream features of your Android phone if you’ve been using it for a while. There are also many hidden features in Android that many people don’t know about, and they can boost your phone’s use. These are ten Android features you should make use of now.
1. Extend Unlock (Smart Lock Upgrade)
Are you annoyed by having to unlock your phone all the time at home or while you’re wearing your smartwatch? Extend Unlock on Android 14 (formerly called Smart Lock) keeps your device unlocked if it is near trusted devices or in trusted spots.
How to enable:
- Choose Settings and then click on Security & Privacy.
- Find and tap Extend Unlock
Authenticate yourself to start the setup process.
2. Notification History
Did you toss away a notification by mistake and want it back? No worries. All notifications, even the ones you dismissed, are saved in Notification History on Android for 24 hours.
How to enable:
- Go to Settings > Notifications
- Tap Notification History
Toggle on Use notification history
3. Quick Tap (Pixel Only)
How to set it up:
- Access the Settings app, pick System, Gestures, and Quick Tap.
- Switch it to the on position and select which action you want it to do.
4. Split Screen & Floating Windows
You can multitask more easily with the help of split-screen and floating windows. You can view and use two apps side by side, or open a third one in a pop-up window.
How to activate:
- Open the Recents menu
- Long press an app, then pick Open in split-screen from the menu.
- Select the second app
To use floating windows, make sure you have Pop-up view (Samsung) or Floating window (other brands) turned on.
5. If you’re using a Pixel phone and Android 14+, you can connect it as a webcam for your computer.
Do you want your webcam quality to be better for video calls? With just a USB cable, you can use your Pixel phone as a better webcam.
Steps:
- Attach your phone to your computer with a USB cable.
- Once the USB notification shows up, choose Webcam from the options.
After you authenticate, preview both front and rear cameras and choose the one you want.
6. Edge Panel or Smart Sidebar
With either Edge Panel or Smart Sidebar, people using Samsung or OnePlus phones can call up their favorite apps, contacts, and tools without leaving what they’re doing.
Enable Edge Panel (Samsung):
- Open Settings and go to Display, then select Edge Panels.
- Tap Panels and pick out the ones suited for you
Use the Edit button so you can choose your own shortcuts.
7. Modes and Routines (Samsung Only)
You can make your phone more personal with Modes and Routines features. You can set it up to put your phone on Do Not Disturb during sleep, or automatically start Spotify when you connect to your car.
To get started:
- Open the Settings app and pick Modes and Routines.
- Add the things that will make the routine run and how it should act in Settings.
8. IR Blaster (Limited Devices)
The IR Blaster, which you’ll find on some Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Vivo phones, lets your device work as a remote for TVs and air conditioners.
Usage:
- Open the pre-installed remote app
- Scan the IR signal of your device to connect it.
Turn your phone into a remote control for your television and other devices.
9. Side Button Customization (Samsung Only)
If you aren’t happy with the standard Side button action on your Samsung, you can change it. You can adjust it to do multiple activities, including opening an app, triggering a mode, switching on the flashlight, and similar things.
How to customize:
- Open Settings, head to Advanced Features, and tap on Side Button.
- Allow Double press and assign an action you need from the options.
10. Built-In Inspiration: Discover Your Android’s Full Power
Android phones have many useful multitasking and automation features hidden beneath the surface. Use these options to improve how you get things done, make your day faster, and finish more—without getting any new apps.
