5 Android features you may not know about but should start using now

I’ve been an Android user since the early days of version 1.5, so it’s quite rare for me to stumble upon a new feature that surprises me. When I do encounter an unfamiliar Android feature, it’s a thrilling moment indeed.

For those who are new to Android or just use it casually, there are likely several hidden gems within the operating system waiting to be explored. These hidden features can be incredibly useful and convenient.

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I’ve compiled a list of five lesser-known Android features that I believe every user should be aware of. Being familiar with these features will ensure that you are well-prepared when the need arises.

Let’s delve into these hidden gems.

1. Share Wi-Fi via QR code

While you may not think much about this feature, let me paint you a scenario. Imagine you have guests over for the holidays and you want to provide them with access to your Wi-Fi network. Instead of revealing the password to everyone (making it accessible to anyone), you can share the Wi-Fi credentials via a QR code. Not only does this simplify the process of connecting a new device to the network, but it also adds an extra layer of security.

To share your Wi-Fi network via a QR code, follow these simple steps: Go to Settings > Network & internet > Internet, and select the network you wish to share. At the top of the page, tap Share, verify your identity using biometrics, password, or PIN, and a new page will display a QR code for the selected Wi-Fi network. You can then show this QR code to anyone for them to scan with their phone, automatically adding the network to their device. You could also take a screenshot of the QR code, print it out, and make it available for others to scan, eliminating the need to pass your phone around.

2. Enable ‘Developer options’

The “Developer options” menu on Android isn’t exclusively for developers. Anyone can enable this feature and gain access to a plethora of functionalities, some of which can be very useful. With Developer options enabled, you can set the maximum number of Bluetooth devices that can connect to your phone, unlock your bootloader, enable automatic system updates, activate USB debugging, adjust graphics driver settings, optimize peak refresh rate, and much more. If you seek advanced control over your Android device, enabling Developer options is essential.

To enable this feature, go to Settings > About Phone, scroll to the bottom, and tap “Build number” seven times. Once enabled, you will find Developer options in Settings > System. Tap on this entry to access a range of new options.

3. Text translation

As the holiday season approaches, some of us may find ourselves traveling. If you’re heading outside your country, you might require assistance with text translation. Fortunately, Android offers a powerful text translation feature through its camera app.

This feature is incredibly impressive. Suppose you come across a menu or any other text that needs translation. Unlock your Android device, tap the Lens icon in the Search bar, point your camera at the text, and tap the Translate button. Android will automatically translate the text and display it as an image, preserving the original layout. You can view the translated text, copy it to another device, take a screenshot, or search for the translation. This feature can be handy in various situations where automatic text translation is needed.

4. Use Extend Unlock

There are times when you may not require your phone to be locked, such as when you’re at home with minimal security concerns. If you live in a secure environment or alone, you can make phone access simpler by enabling Extend Unlock (formerly known as Smart Lock) and designating your home as a Trusted Place.

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To set up Extend Unlock, navigate to Settings > Security > More security & privacy > Extend Unlock. Confirm your identity and follow the prompts to configure Extend Unlock for on-body detection, trusted places, or trusted devices. Select “Trusted places” and add a new trusted location. Once configured, your phone will automatically unlock when you are at the designated place until you leave that area.

It’s important to exercise caution with this feature, especially if you have guests in your home. Use Extend Unlock thoughtfully to avoid compromising your device’s security.

5. Set your medical information

Android offers a feature that allows you to store vital medical details such as name, height, weight, gender, blood type, date of birth, organ donor status, pregnancy status, medications, address, and medical notes. While you may never need this information, having it readily available can be invaluable in an emergency.

To input your medical information, go to Settings > Safety & emergency > Medical information. Add the relevant data on the following page. There are a few considerations with this feature. Firstly, emergency responders must be aware of this feature to utilize it effectively. Secondly, responders would need to unlock your phone to access this information.

To address this, you can tap “Change setting” at the bottom of the page and enable the information to be accessible during emergency calls, even when your phone is locked. To access this information, tap Emergency at the bottom of the dial pad on the unlock screen, and select View Emergency Information. Despite the potential hurdles, having this feature set up can be crucial in critical situations when quick access to medical information is vital.