Android Tips, Tricks & Hidden Features You Can Use Today

If you own an Android phone, you already have a powerful gadget in your hand. Most users only scratch the surface, missing out on hidden settings and shortcuts that can make the device faster, cleaner, and more fun. This guide pulls together the most useful tricks from our blog, so you can start improving your phone right now.

Boost Speed and Performance

Sluggishness usually comes from a few simple culprits: background apps, animation settings, and unused system services. First, open Settings > Apps > See all apps and sort by "Running". Force‑stop anything you don’t need, especially games you haven’t opened in weeks. Next, go to Settings > About phone > Build number and tap it seven times to unlock Developer Options. Inside, turn off "Animations scale" or set them to 0.5× – this makes the UI feel snappier without harming the phone.

Another quick win is the hidden "Battery Saver" mode. Swipe down the quick panel, hold the battery icon, and slide to "Extreme battery saver". It cuts background activity, limits CPU speed, and can double your screen‑on time on a single charge.

Customizing Your Home Screen

Android launchers let you reshape the entire look of your phone. If you’re tired of the stock UI, try a secret launcher like Nova Launcher or the lesser‑known Pixel Launcher. Install the app, set it as default, and you’ll get customizable grids, icon packs, and gesture controls. A favorite trick is assigning a double‑tap on the home screen to open the camera – just go to the launcher’s gesture settings and pick the action.

For a deeper makeover, explore hidden launchers that replace the entire app drawer. Some launchers let you hide apps, create folders within folders, and even change the scroll direction. This is perfect if you want a minimalist look without deleting any apps.

Secret Codes for Info and Diagnostics

Android phones hide a set of dial‑in codes that reveal hardware and software details. Open the phone app and type *#*#4636#*#* to see a testing menu with battery stats, usage history, and Wi‑Fi information. Another handy code is *#06#, which shows your IMEI number – useful if you ever need to report a stolen device.

For more in‑depth diagnostics, try *#0*# (works on many Samsung models). It launches a screen test, letting you verify every pixel, color, and sensor. These codes are safe to use and can save a trip to the service center.

Google Assistant Hidden Commands

Google Assistant isn’t just for setting alarms. Try saying, "Hey Google, open developer options" or "Hey Google, show me my battery health". You can also ask it to toggle Bluetooth, turn on Wi‑Fi calling, or even read your text messages aloud while you drive. These voice shortcuts cut down on taps and keep you focused on what matters.

If you prefer typed commands, open the Assistant app, go to Settings > Assistant > Routines, and create a custom routine like "Good night" that silences notifications, lowers brightness, and starts a sleep timer for your favorite music.

Managing Storage and Keeping Space Free

Running out of space feels like a constant battle. Start by checking Settings > Storage > Free up space. The built‑in tool suggests large files, unused apps, and cached data you can delete. For a deeper clean, install a trusted file manager and look for folders named "Temp" or "Cache" – clearing them frees up several hundred megabytes.

Another tip: move photos and videos to the cloud. Google Photos offers free unlimited "high quality" backup, freeing local storage instantly. Once uploaded, use the app’s "Free up space" button to delete the local copies safely.

By applying these Android tricks – from performance tweaks and hidden codes to launcher customizations and storage hacks – you’ll notice a faster, more personalized phone that feels like it was built just for you. Keep experimenting, and you’ll keep finding new ways to get the most out of your Android device.