In the ever-evolving world of smartphones and mobile operating systems, Android remains at the forefront of innovation. With each new iteration/update, Google continues to surprise us with new Android hidden features that enhance our mobile user experience. In this post, we’ll dive into some of the latest Android features that are sure to leave you amazed.
Must Read: 8 Google Chrome for Android Hidden Features
New Android Hidden Features And Tricks
1. Chat Privately On Google Docs
Google Docs is one easy way to collaborate online with our friends and colleagues for assignments and stuff. This unique feature allows us to use it as a chatting platform as well and it’s pretty easy to set up. Launch the Google Docs app, make sure you are signed in with your Google account, tap on Plus, and add a new document. This is where you are gonna chat with anyone you want in real-time. For that, you need to share this document with others either by sharing the document on Google Drive or by emailing.
To email it, tap on three dots, hit share and export, and then click share. Here, add the email address of the recipient and hit send. Now, the recipient will have to open the document and continue typing their text. Both of you will be able to see the typing in real-time as you both type and either of you can edit and delete everything you both type. You can even add as many people as you want to chat here by sharing this document with them.
2. Launch Two Apps At a Time In Split-Screen Mode
The next Android trick allows you to place a pair of app icons as a single icon on your home screen tapping on which you can launch both of them at a time in split screen mode with a single tap, So you can multitask comfortably. For this, you need to install the shortcut maker app. Install and launch it, then tap on the “split” option. Now add any 2 apps that support split-screen mode. You can even swap the icon’s positions to your liking and test them to see if they are working fine.
If it’s good, then tap “place on home screen” and create a shortcut to add the combined icon onto your home screen. Now, anytime you need to use them both at a time, you can just tap on the icon and use them in split-screen mode. This way, you can create as many pairs as you want for quick access.
Note: This works only for Android versions 9,10,11.
3. New Instagram Hidden Features
Next, we got 2 simple Instagram browsing tricks. The first trick lets you see multiple pictures of a single Instagram post easier and faster. All you need to do is long press on these dots under the post and swipe left and right to navigate among multiple posts faster. And while you are scrolling through reels, instead of trying to tap on their username to check their profile you can just swipe left on any reel to see their profile.
4. Google Drive Scan Widget
Usually, to scan and save documents on our phones, we use any third-party app. But you don’t need any app to do that. All you need to do is long press on the home screen and add the drive scan shortcut to the home screen. Now, whenever you need to scan any document, you can just launch it and scan it. The scanned document will be automatically saved to your Google Drive account after you hit the save button.
5. Google Integrated AI to Google Search
Google has integrated AI into the Google app to enhance the way we search for anything on the Google app. What it does is, it gathers information from multiple sites and provides you an overview about anything you search about. So you don’t have to visit each website for the info you are looking for.
To enhance your browsing experience, all you have to do is, just tap on the button at the top left corner and enable the SGE generative AI in Search option. Now, whenever you search for anything on the Google app, you’ll get the “generate AI Overview” option. Just tap it to get the overview. Do note that It’s still in the beta stage, so don’t expect the option to appear for every query.
6. Simulate Color Space – Turn Your Phone Black & White
Simulate color space With this hidden developer option, you can turn everything on your phone into black and white, so you don’t have a problem staring at your phone for long periods while reading something. To turn your phone into black and white, head over to developer options, find this option called Simulate Color Space, and then choose Monochromacy. You can disable it at any time if you want your colors back.
7. Switch Cameras Easily
The last one is a simple camera trick using which you can switch between the front and rear cameras easily without having to reach for the switch button. You can do that by just swiping up or down on your screen. This is very handy especially if you have a big screen or short hands.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Android hidden features are a testimony to Google’s commitment to enhancing user experience and privacy. With each update, Android users are treated to a host of new and improved Android features that make their smartphones most functional and enjoyable. Be sure to explore these hidden Android features on your smartphone and stay tuned for more exciting developments in the world of Android smartphones.
