Android devices come packed with features, but many of the most useful settings are hidden or buried deep within menus. These lesser-known tools can enhance your user experience, improve performance, and even help in emergencies. Whether you’re looking to optimize your phone’s speed or discover handy shortcuts, here are 10 undiscovered Android settings every user should know.
1. Extend Unlock for Smoother Security
If you use Face Unlock or a fingerprint sensor, Extend Unlock allows you to keep your device unlocked while it’s on your face or finger. This eliminates the need to re-authenticate every time you pick up your phone. To activate it, go to Settings > Security & Privacy > Biometric unlock settings, and toggle on Extend Unlock .
2. Share Wi-Fi via QR Code
Tired of typing passwords when sharing your Wi-Fi network? Android lets you generate a QR code that others can scan to connect instantly. Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & tethering, then select Wi-Fi hotspot and choose “Share.” A QR code will appear for easy sharing .
3. Reduce Data Usage with Built-In Tools
Android includes a feature that limits background data usage, helping you save on mobile data bills. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage, and enable "Data Saver" mode. You can also restrict background data for specific apps individually to control consumption more precisely .
4. Enable Developer Options for Advanced Controls
Developer Options contain powerful tools like USB debugging, animation scale adjustments, and more. To access them, go to Settings > About phone and tap the Build Number seven times until developer mode is enabled. Once activated, you’ll find these options under Settings > System > Developer options .
5. Set Up Emergency Medical Information
In case of an emergency, having critical medical details accessible without unlocking your phone can be lifesaving. Go to Settings > Security & Privacy > Emergency information, and input key details like blood type, allergies, medications, and emergency contacts. This information appears directly on the lock screen during SOS calls .
6. Customize Quick Settings Tiles
The Quick Settings panel gives you instant access to commonly used features. Customize which tiles appear by swiping down from the top of the screen, tapping the pencil icon, and rearranging or adding new tiles such as flashlight, screen recorder, or driving mode .
7. Disable Auto-Play Videos on Google Play Store
Watching trailers might seem convenient, but auto-playing videos consume data and battery life. Head to Google Play Store > Menu > Settings, and under General, disable "Auto-play videos." This small change can significantly improve your browsing experience .
8. Optimize App Performance by Limiting Background Processes
Too many apps running in the background can slow down your phone. To manage this, go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps, and manually restrict background activity for non-essential apps. For advanced users, Developer Options allow setting hard limits on background processes .
9. Use Gboard’s Text Translation Feature
Gboard, Google’s keyboard app, has a built-in translation tool that lets you switch languages without leaving your conversation. Long-press the Globe icon on the keyboard and select Translate. Then, type in one language and get real-time translations into another—perfect for multilingual chats .
10. Turn Off Ads Personalization
To reduce targeted advertising, you can opt out of ad personalization. Go to Settings > Google > Ads, and toggle on "Opt out of Ads Personalization." While this won’t eliminate ads entirely, it prevents companies from tailoring them based on your behavior .
These settings showcase how much power Android puts in your hands beyond the surface-level functions. From boosting privacy to improving efficiency, taking advantage of these hidden gems can truly transform your daily smartphone experience. Explore your device’s settings regularly to stay updated on new features and optimizations that make Android uniquely yours.
