A MakeUseOf guide documents six Android shortcuts, from lock-screen controls to gestures for Quick Settings and the power button.
It highlights platform differences developers and Android users should account for: the two-finger Quick Settings swipe does not work on Samsung Galaxy, which uses a swipe from the top-right corner instead.
Two functions from the power button
Double-pressing the power button can open the camera from any screen, even if the screen is off. If you prefer, the same shortcut can open Google Wallet, where cards and digital passes are stored. On Android, go to Settings > System > Gestures > Double press power button and then Camera or Wallet . On Samsung Galaxy, the path is Settings > Advanced features > Side button > Double press.
Long-pressing the same button can open Gemini, even with the screen off. To set this up on Android, go to Settings > System > Gestures > Press & hold power button > Digital assistant . On Samsung Galaxy, go to Settings > Advanced features > Side button > Long press.
Gestures for Quick Settings and snapshots
A two-finger swipe down from the top of the screen opens Quick Settings — the panel of settings tiles. This skips the separate swipe that's usually required to cycle through notifications to tiles. On Samsung Galaxy devices, this gesture doesn't work: swipe down from the top right corner with one finger.
To take a screenshot without simultaneously pressing the power and volume buttons, enable Quick Tap : two firm taps on the back of the phone perform the action you choose. The setting is in Settings > System > Gestures > Quick Tap to start actions > Take screenshot . The taps may take a little practice; it helps to do them around the device logo. From the same menu, you can choose to open Gemini, the notification panel, or the flashlight instead of taking a screenshot.
On Samsung Galaxy, the corresponding feature is called Back Tap and requires the RegiStar module of the Good Lock app. After downloading it, enable the Back-Tap action and define what happens with a double or triple tap.
Hotspot and flashlight without searching in menus
To turn on the hotspot with one tap, add it to Quick Settings. Open the notification panel fully, tap the pencil next to the tiles, and under Connectivity , tap the + next to Hotspot . Once it's added, you'll be able to turn it on from there.
You can also add the flashlight to your Android lock screen shortcuts. There are two locations and ten options available. The relevant setting is in Settings > Display & Touch > Lock screen > Shortcuts , where you choose what appears on the left and right. When the screen turns on, for example if you pick up or tap the phone, press and hold the flashlight icon.
On Samsung Galaxy, go to Settings > Wallpaper and style , tap the lock screen preview on the left, and select one of the shortcuts. Samsung offers 12 options and lets you set any app.
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