4 Android Shortcuts to Speed Up Your Smartphone

Android devices are highly customizable, but unlocking that potential can sometimes come at the cost of user-friendliness. When configured correctly, though, these devices benefit from all kinds of useful productivity shortcuts that help you get more out of every interaction. Here are four of the easiest ones to set up.

Easy Camera

Most users get a lot of mileage out of their smartphone’s built-in camera, but to make the most effective use of it, your camera needs to be ready to go at any moment so you never miss a golden opportunity. There are a few ways to access the camera as quickly as possible, and most involve double-pressing a button. Some devices require pressing the volume-down button, while others use the power button. Motorola devices can activate the camera through a double-twist gesture.

Easy Access to Google Assistant

Google Assistant is widely considered the best virtual assistant option for Android devices. You can always wake it up by saying “Hey Google,” but there is an even easier way. On many Android devices, you can access Google Assistant by long-pressing the Home button and it will pop up instantly. Check your device’s settings to confirm which gesture is configured for your model.

Easy Menus

Some apps feature a menu accessible by tapping the three-dot icon and then making a selection. Many apps take it a step further by supporting a gesture, similar to how a drop-down menu works on a computer. By long-pressing the three-dot menu button and dragging down, you can make your selection in one smooth motion instead of two separate taps.

Easy Hang-Up

The phone is still for making calls, and you eventually have to end them. There is always an on-screen button for that, but a more convenient option is to configure your device to end calls using the power button. When you hold your phone to your ear in the traditional way, your thumb is naturally near the power button anyway. In your Settings, navigate to Accessibility settings and enable Power button ends call. This gives you a fast, hands-free way to hang up without hunting for the on-screen button.

Keep Your Business Android Devices Secure and Productive

These four shortcuts are a great starting point for getting more out of your Android device every day. For businesses where employees rely on Android phones and tablets, small efficiency gains like these add up quickly. So do the risks that come with unmanaged devices. A solid mobile device management strategy ensures your team’s devices stay secure, up to date, and properly configured, whether they are company-issued or personal devices covered under a BYOD policy.

WheelHouse IT helps South Florida and New York businesses take control of their mobile environments without the headache. Call us in Florida at (954) 474-2204 or in New York at (516) 536-5006, or contact us online to get started.