Joe Maring / Android Authority
The number of hidden Android shortcuts is mind-boggling. Once you include core apps, there are hundreds, and not all are created equal. Some are niche and depend on how you use your phone. Personally, I’m never going to be much of a one-handed mode or split-screen user, but those features have their fans.
My favorite hidden Android shortcuts have much broader appeal. Once you hear about them, you’ll be amazed that you were getting by without them. They’re listed below, grouped by the app or system area they relate to.
Editor's Note: This list was compiled using a Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus and a Google Pixel 8, both running Android 15. Many hidden Android shortcuts are brand-specific, so if you're on Moto, OPPO, or another brand, you might find that the exact shortcuts differ.
Hidden Android camera shortcuts
Hadlee Simons / Android Authority Galaxy S25
Everyone uses their phone camera, and some of these might already be familiar to you. You probably know that you can press a volume button to take a photo — it’s one of the most intuitive tricks out there. But there’s more to uncover, and once you get the hang of these gestures and button presses, you might never launch the camera from the home screen again.
1. Double-press the power button to open the camera app This works even if your phone is locked, and it’s a super handy tip if you didn’t know it already. Sometimes you need to take a picture quickly before you miss the moment, and the crucial couple of seconds it might take you to unlock your phone and hit the camera icon on your home screen could be the difference. Instead, just double-press the power button, and you’re ready to shoot.
2. Double-press the power button again for a selfie Even if you knew the trick above, you might not realize that another quick double-tap of the power button flips your camera around. Should you happen to see your celebrity hero passing by on the street and need to get to the front camera of your phone quickly enough to capture a selfie, double-press the power button from your lock screen to open the camera app, then immediately double-press again to get the selfie shooter ready.
3. Hold the shutter to record video in photo mode Sometimes you’re ready to take a photo, then you realize you should be filming the spectacular moment unfolding before you. Instead of moving your thumb or finger to flick to video mode, just hold the shutter button while still in photo mode. It will record a video for as long as you keep it pressed.
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