5 Tips & Tricks For Android Smartphone Users

Android is a powerful smartphone operating system, full of rich functionality and great customization options. However, many Android users are unaware of some of the best features hidden in their smartphones. Alcatel has compiled a list of some of the best Android tips and tricks you might not know about.

Manage mobile data usage

You can track how much data you’re uploading and downloading on your phone, so you can ensure you’re not using your data bundle up too quickly.

Open your phone’s Settings app.
- Tap Network & internet and then Internet.
- Next to your network operator, tap Settings.
- At the top you’ll see how much total data you use.
- To see graphs and details, tap App data usage.
- To pick a time period, tap the Down arrow.

You can also set alerts about your data use under Settings, Data warning & limit.

Guest mode

You can share your Android with family and friends by creating a user profile for each person. If you’re letting someone use your phone for a short time, you can use a guest profile to stop them poking around in your email or WhatsApp messages. Like a user, the guest profile has its own space on the device, but it’s easier to delete this space when a guest is done with the device. You will find the option under System, Multiple users in your settings app.

Use Smart Lock

With Smart Lock, you can leave your phone unlocked in certain circumstances, like when you’re at a safe location such as your home or when the phone is in your pocket. When you don’t use your phone for four hours, and after it restarts, you’ll need to unlock it.

Tap Security > Advanced settings > Smart Lock.
If you don’t see “Security,” tap Security & location.
Enter your PIN, pattern, or password.
Pick an option and follow the on-screen steps.

To lock your phone again, touch and hold Lock.

Use your phone by voice alone

You can say ‘Hey Google’ and use your voice on your Android device for hands-free searches, navigation, and other features.

On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google app
Tap your Profile picture or initial > Settings >Voice.
Under “Hey Google,” tap Voice Match.
Turn on Hey Google.

Find, lock, or erase a lost or stolen Android device

If you lose your Android phone, you can find, lock, or erase it remotely on android.com/find. If you’ve added a Google Account to your device, Find My Device is turned on by default. To find, lock, or erase an Android phone, the phone must: be switched on, signed in to a Google Account, connected to the Internet, and have Location and Find My Device turned on.