Android devices are packed with features that can help you maximize your productivity. Whether you're a professional or a student, these productivity-focused features can help.
1. Focus Mode
If you don't want notifications to bother you when you're busy, turn on Focus Mode on your Android device. Unlike Do Not Disturb, which silences your phone and all calls, texts, and notifications, Focus Mode lets you mute specific apps. This way, you won't miss important notifications and can greatly reduce distractions.
You can even set a schedule if you work or study during specific hours, so that Focus Mode automatically turns on during these designated times. If you really want to maximize your productivity, there are also specific Android apps you can download to stay more focused.
2. Bedtime Mode
There's nothing worse than lying in bed, almost falling asleep, only to be woken up by loud notifications. Since we don't always remember to mute notifications manually, using Bedtime Mode on Android devices is truly a lifesaver.
When Bedtime Mode is turned on, your phone will mute and the wallpaper will dim. The screen also turns black and white, which is great if you have a habit of using your phone when you're about to sleep. Additionally, you can enable Do Not Disturb for Bedtime Mode, which ensures only callbacks and starred contacts can reach you. Like Focus Mode, you can set up a schedule for selected days and times and configure this setting to turn on when you charge your phone after 9 p.m.
3. Split Screen Mode
A commonly used Android feature for seamless multitasking is Split Screen Mode. This feature is quite useful if you have to switch between two apps, such as Chrome when looking for flights and the Calendar app to check schedules. Split Screen Mode allows viewing both applications at the same time without switching back and forth.
Both apps must be open in the Recent Apps overview to use this feature. Then tap the app icon at the top of the screen and select Split screen. Select the other app and you will be able to see two screens. To review just one app, drag the center bar to the bottom or top of the screen.
4. Quick Share
If you've used AirDrop on iPhone, Quick Share on Android devices works the same way. Like AirDrop, you can use this feature to send almost anything, from videos to documents, to nearby contacts. This feature works on devices that support Android 6.0 or higher, so it's something you'll have access to unless you bought a smartphone before 2015.
5. Voice Typing
Whether you're on the go and can't type or just prefer talking to typing on a small screen, Voice Typing is a game changer. You can use this feature to send emails or take notes while walking the dog or doing housework.
To use, open any app where you can type, like Keep or Gmail. Tap the area where you usually enter text. Locate the microphone icon and select it. When you see the “Speak now” message, you can start saying whatever you want to text.
6. Google Assistant/Gemini
Ready to go to work but want to know the temperature outside? Want to look up recipes without stopping what you're doing? Google Assistant (or Gemini if you've switched) can help.
There are so many things you can use Google Assistant for, from quick calculations to playing music or podcasts on your phone, checking traffic on your route, etc. To activate Google Assistant, hold down the Home button or say “Hey Google”. Then you can ask any questions or say commands.
7. Pin the app
This feature can be useful if you have an app open and want to avoid accidentally opening another app or page. This feature is useful in public places, especially in a professional environment, if you are giving your device to someone.
Pinning an app ensures that they can only see that specific app, thus protecting your privacy and ensuring you can continue working.
8. One-handed mode
Big phones are very popular these days. But while they provide an immersive viewing experience, it's often difficult and inconvenient to use or navigate between apps on your phone, especially on the go.
To use this feature, navigate to Settings > System > Gestures. Turn on the toggle for One-Handed Mode. Once you've done that, you can bring the screen within reach by swiping down on the bottom edge of the screen.
There are a lot of things you can do with your Android device. And integrating these features into your daily life can help you focus better and make the most of your time.
