8 fun Android features you should be using

It’s no secret that Androids are amazing. But our favorite Android features aren’t always quite so obvious. That’s why we put together this guide to fun hidden Android features you should know about. Give them a try! 

1. Extend Unlock: Keep your phone unlocked in trusted situations using Extend Unlock. Go to Settings > Security & Privacy > More Security & Privacy > Extend Unlock. With Extend Unlock, you can set up your phone with on-body detection, trusted places, or trusted devices to bypass your lock screen without entering a password. 

2. App Pinning: App pinning allows you to lock an app in view on your screen, so others can’t switch apps while using your phone. You can find and enable it in Settings > Security & privacy > More security & privacy > App pinning. To use it, tap the app’s icon, and select "Pin." 

3. Flash Notifications: With flash notifications, never miss a notification again. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Audio > Flash notifications to enable your phone's flash to blink whenever you receive a notification. It's a handy feature for noisy environments, or for situations when your phone needs to stay on silent. 

4. Split-Screen Mode: Want to watch a video while browsing the web? No problem. With Split-Screen Mode, you can use two apps simultaneously. Just swipe up to see your recently used apps, press the app icon in the top title bar, select the Split-Screen option, then select the second app you’d like to use. 

5. Digital Wellbeing: Track and manage your screen time with Digital Wellbeing. Go to Settings > Digital Wellbeing to access features like app timers, focus mode, and bedtime mode. It’s a great way to ensure you’re not spending too much time on your phone. 

6. Gesture Navigation: Navigate your phone with simple swipes and gestures. Go to Settings > System > Gestures. Here, you can enable and customize gestures for actions like swiping to go back, accessing the home screen, or launching Google Assistant. 

7. One-Handed Mode: Make your large-screen phone easier to use with one-handed mode. You can enable One-Handed Mode in Settings > System > Gestures, or use a specific gesture (a pinching motion) to shrink the display size on your screen for easier use. 

8. Screen Casting: You can mirror your phone display on any nearby connected device by using the quick and easy built-in Screen Cast feature. Swipe with two fingers from the top to access the Settings menu, then select Screen Cast and choose the device you’d like to cast on to begin mirroring your phone to that display. 


We hope you enjoy getting the most out of your phone! Taking advantage of these hidden features can majorly enhance your Android experience.  

And if you ever run into unexpected issues, remember: Verizon Tech Coach experts are here to help. Call or chat today.