Best Android Tips and Tricks is a versatile and cutting-edge mobile operating system that often outpaces Apple’s iOS in adopting new technologies. While it offers an intuitive interface for everyday users who want to send messages, make calls, and explore apps, Android also hides a wealth of powerful features just beneath the surface. Once you know where to look, you can unlock its full potential.
Ready to elevate your Android experience? Our curated list of shortcuts and tips can help you master Google’s OS like a pro. And these are just a few highlights—Android’s extensive capabilities mean there’s always more to discover. Got a favorite feature or tip? Drop it in the comments, and we might include it in a future update!
1. Android Tips and Tricks: Uninstall Apps You Don’t Need
Best Android Tips and Tricks your phones come with a variety of pre-installed apps—some of which are essential, like maps, email, and browsers but there are always a few you may find unnecessary. If you don’t listen to podcasts, for example, you likely won’t need a podcast app taking up space. Additionally, manufacturers often add their own apps that you might never use. To remove unwanted apps, simply press and hold the app’s icon, tap on “App Info,” and choose the uninstall option.
While some core apps, like Google Chrome, can’t be completely removed, you can opt to disable them. This hides the app from your interface and frees up system resources without uninstalling it entirely.
2. Use Digital Wellbeing Features
Staying up late texting and scrolling through endless feeds isn’t doing you any favors. That’s where Android’s Bedtime mode, part of Google’s Digital Wellbeing initiative, comes in. It not only silences notifications at your chosen time but also switches your screen to grayscale to make late-night viewing less stimulating. You can even enable Dark Theme for a more relaxed display or simply dim your screen to create a calm atmosphere. Need a little extra time? The dropdown menu offers a Pause option to delay Bedtime mode temporarily. For more advice on getting a good night’s rest, check out our article on how technology can both aid and disrupt sleep.
Another useful tool is Focus mode, which mutes distracting app notifications based on a schedule you set. Some phones, like recent Motorola and Pixel models, also have a neat Best Android Tips and Tricks: they automatically enable Do Not Disturb when placed face down—perfect for when you want an immediate break from interruptions. Finally, the Work Profile feature lets you hide work-related apps when it’s time to unwind.
3. Use third-party launchers and icon packs
One of the standout features of the Android operating system is its unmatched flexibility. With the built-in launcher, you can tweak almost every aspect of your phone’s appearance, and many manufacturers even support custom icon packs. But if your device doesn’t offer this option or you’re craving a fresh style, third-party launchers are your go-to solution.
The Google Play Store is packed with diverse third-party launchers, each offering unique features and aesthetics. For a clean and streamlined experience, check out the Niagara launcher. Want to dive into theming? The Hyperion launcher has got you covered. And, of course, there’s always the reliable Nova launcher for a classic yet versatile approach. To help you choose, we’ve put together a list of the top Android launchers worth exploring.
Ready to elevate your customization game even further? Explore the best custom icon packs available for Android, ranging from minimalist designs to detailed skeuomorphic styles and bold, eye-catching themes. These icon packs can help you transform your device’s look completely.
4. Customize the quick settings
The Quick Settings page in Android is your go-to spot for easy access to essential features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Battery Saver, and more. With each update, new toggles have been added, sometimes making it a bit cumbersome to find the exact setting you need. Fortunately, Android Tips and Tricks lets you personalize this menu to suit your preferences. Just swipe down twice to open the Quick Settings panel, tap the Edit button, and then hold and drag the tiles to rearrange them however you like.
5. Use widgets for glanceable information
Widgets on Android let you access key information quickly without opening apps. Many top Android apps include widget support, so you can view calendar events, to-dos, notes, weather updates, and more right from your homescreen. They’re perfect for keeping track of what’s important at a glance.
To place a widget on your homescreen, simply press and hold an empty area of the screen, then select the Widgets option. Browse through the apps that offer widgets, choose the one you want, and hold it to drag it into place. You can also adjust the size to suit your layout preferences. Not sure which widgets to pick? Explore our curated list of the top Android widgets to help you get started.
6. Install Android Apps From the Web
You can easily install apps without needing to pick up your phone. Just go to the Google Play Store on your web browser, make sure you’re logged into the same Google account as your phone, and choose any app or game to install. If you have more than one Android device connected to your account, simply select which one to send it to, and you’re good to go!
7. Install Apps From Other Sources
One of the standout aspects of Android is its open nature. Unlike iOS, where you’re tied to a single app store, Android allows you to choose where you get your apps. The Google Play Store is the go-to for most users, offering a wide range of apps along with robust security features. But if you’re looking for something that’s not available there, you have other options. You can explore Amazon’s Appstore, your device manufacturer’s app store, or even download and install apps manually using an APK file (Best Android Tips and Tricks Package).
However, tread carefully when sideloading apps (installing them outside the Play Store). While it’s a powerful feature, third-party app sources are also the leading cause of Android malware. Always ensure the app is from a trustworthy source before you proceed. Once you’re done installing, it’s wise to disable the “Install Unknown Apps” permission for the source you used, adding an extra layer of security.
So, why sideload an app? A perfect example is the popular game Fortnite. While iPhone users no longer have access to the game, Android users can simply download the APK directly from the game maker’s website and continue playing. For detailed instructions, check out PCMag’s guide on how to play Fortnite on Android.
8. Customize Message Notifications
With Android, you can tailor your message notifications to highlight specific contacts and keep conversations organized. Now, you can make messages pop up over other apps as bubbles, making it easy to stay connected. To get started, just enable bubbles in Settings and mark the contact as a Priority. Within the notification settings, you’ll find options to turn on Bubbles, making it even simpler to view and reply to conversations. You can also fine-tune the priority—choose to always get notified for a particular Bubble, even in Do Not Disturb mode, or set it to regular alerts, or silence it completely.
9. Best Android Tips and Tricks: Beef Up Storage
Best Android Tips and Tricks One of the standout benefits of Android phones compared to iPhones is the option to expand storage using a microSD card, available on select models. This means you can easily boost your device’s capacity for apps, photos, videos, and other files, as well as seamlessly transfer large data sets between your phone and other devices. Another key feature is the ability to connect some Android phones to external USB drives, enabling direct file browsing and management. If your Android has a USB-C port, you can even plug in a USB flash drive with a Type-C connector for quick access to your files on the go.
10. Double-Tap the Power Button to Open the Camera
Accessing your camera in a flash is easy with this simple trick. On most Android Tips and Tricks devices, just double-tap the power button to launch the camera instantly—perfect for snapping those quick, unexpected moments. You can also use the volume keys to focus and capture the shot, or press and hold them to start recording a video.
Conclusion
Mastering these Android tips and tricks can transform the way you use your phone, making it more efficient, intuitive, and enjoyable. Whether you’re streamlining everyday tasks, customizing your interface, or enhancing your camera skills, these insights help you get the most out of your device. Explore, experiment, and discover how to make your Android Tips and Tricks experience uniquely yours!