Android has several useful features that many people overlook, even after using their phones for years. If your phone runs Android 15 or newer, some of these tricks can improve your privacy, make multitasking easier, and help you control your device.
1. Hide Apps in a Private Space
Android 15 introduced Private Space, which lets you keep selected apps in a separate, locked area.
Go to Settings → Security & privacy → Private space and follow the setup instructions. You can install apps there and lock the space when you’re finished. Availability may depend on your device.
2. Pin an App to Your Screen
Lending your phone to someone? App pinning can keep them inside one app. Find App pinning in Settings, enable it, then pin an app from the Recent Apps screen.
3. Check Your Notification History
Accidentally dismissed an important notification? Search Settings for Notification history and enable it. Your phone can then keep a record of dismissed notifications.
4. Record Only One App
Instead of recording your entire screen, use Screen Record and select a single app when that option is available. This helps keep unrelated notifications and activities out of your recording.
5. Use Split-Screen Multitasking
Open Recent Apps, tap an app’s icon, and select Split screen if supported. You can watch a video while chatting or read instructions while filling out a form.
6. Turn on One-Handed Mode
Search Settings for One-handed mode. On supported phones, this makes the screen easier to reach when using your phone with one hand.
7. Reduce App Distractions
Long-press an app icon and open App info to control its notifications and permissions. You can stop unnecessary alerts without uninstalling the app.
8. Limit Photo Access
When an app requests photos, choose selected photos instead of granting access to your entire library, where supported. This is useful when uploading one picture to social media.
9. Archive Unused Apps
Android supports app archiving on compatible devices and through supported app-store features. Archiving can free up storage while retaining app data for later restoration.
10. Protect Your Phone From Theft
Check Settings → Google → All services → Theft protection, where available. Features such as Theft Detection Lock can help protect your device if it is snatched.
Note: Menu names and availability vary by manufacturer, Android version, and device.
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