Four Android Shortcuts

Android devices have a reputation for being customizable, which does not always lead to user-friendliness. Nevertheless, if configured correctly, these devices provide good shortcuts to just about any function you might need from your device. Listed below are four simple shortcuts: 

Easy Camera
The integrated camera is one of the most utilized features on many phones. There are plenty of articles online explaining how to make the most of using a mobile device’s camera. The advice that they provide will only be effective if you can get the camera ready in time, though.

Rather than navigating through menus or even unlocking the phone, there are much easier ways to accessing the camera app. These vary based on the manufacturer of the phone you happen to use, but are generally based on double-pressing a button. On LG’s devices, that button is the volume-down button, while most others use the power button. Phones manufactured by Motorola are a bit different; their camera can be activated through a double-twist gesture.

Easy Access to the Google Assistant
The Google Assistant, widely regarded as the superior option as far as the numerous ‘assistant’ apps go, is fairly simple to access, even without saying “Okay, Google.” Most of the newer Android phones come equipped with a Google Assistant shortcut in the Home key. All you have to do is long-press it, and the Google Assistant will appear.

Easy Menus
While this method doesn't work in all apps, it does in some. Most apps have a menu that can be accessed by pushing the three dots, before again pushing the selection. Some apps combine both gestures into one fluid motion, much like a drop-down menu does on a computer. By long-pressing the three-dot Menu button and dragging down, you can make your selection having to poke twice.

Easy Hang-up
Telephones have always been for making calls and, less directly, ending them. While there is an on-screen button for ending calls, there is another, more convenient way to hang up. Assuming that you’re holding your device to your ear, as one usually does with phones, you probably have simple access to the Power button.

In your Settings, you can access your Accessibility settings and turn on the Power button ends call capability. This turns the Power button into a secondary end call button, making it easier to hang up and turn your attention to your next steps.

There are even more features hidden away in your smartphone. Which ones are your favorites?