6 Killer Android Tablet Tips
Android is the most popular OS on the market with 3 billion active users (many of which are tablets).
One of the things that makes the Android so popular is its long list of features. In fact, the Android has so many functions that it’s easy to overlook and miss out on many of them completely.
When many of these functions are geared towards making life easier and less stressful for the user, missing out would be pretty unfortunate.
So without further ado, here are 6 Android tablet tips to prevent security leaks, increase storage and boost battery life. *Keep in mind that certain layouts/features may vary between devices.
1. Advanced Security Settings
If security is important to you, Android has plenty of options to keep your tablet and all of the information it holds safe at all times.
Under “screen lock” in the security section of the settings menu, you’ll find loads of options. Whether you prefer swipe, PIN, face unlock, or pattern, Android has you covered. The new Galaxy S5 even has a fingerprint scanner that provides an easy way to equip your phone with a heightened level of safety.
2. Debug Settings
By typing “about:debug” into the address bar of the Android browser and then hitting return, you will activate a new menu in the main browser settings. This new menu will allow you to change a number of things about the browser and how it operates. Things like…
- How pages render (which affects load times)
- Whether to display the mobile or desktop version of websites
- Eliminating the lag that occurs when entering text into the browser box
3. Manage Data Usage
If your data is limited, you’ll want to keep a close watch on how much you’re using.
Luckily, Android makes it easy to manage and track your mobile data usage.
By clicking on “Data Usage” in the settings menu, you’ll find a graph that displays how much data you’ve been using over a period of time. By matching the dates on the graph with the monthly data allotment on your contract, you’ll be able to easily monitor your data usage. You can even set a warning cap to alert you before you reach your limit!
4. Folders, Folders, Folders
Just as you can create folders to group together documents and pictures on your computer, you can also do the same with your Android device.
It seems basic enough, but many forget this simple organizational piece that makes finding and using apps a whole lot easier. It will also make your phone feel less cluttered and easier to navigate.
In order to create a folder, press down on one app and drag and drop it on top of another one. You will then have the option to name (and sometimes select a color for) your new folder. Continue to drag and drop more icons into your folder in order to add to it.
5. Swipe Gesture Typing
It might be a pain at first, but with some practice, many prefer this style of typing to the traditional method. Swipe typing works by moving your finger around the keyboard from letter to letter in order to create a word without ever losing contact with the screen.
The keyboard senses which word to type based on the shape you make with your finger. It takes some practice getting used to, but works surprisingly well and gets much easier over time.
The bad news? Not all Android devices are equipped with this function. Thankfully, those who don’t have it can download the Google Keyboard from the Play store for free.
6. Battery Life
Android devices are constantly working (even when asleep), which can make preserving battery life a bit of a challenge.
In order to get the most out of your Android tablet’s battery life, you can adjust certain settings so that your Wi-Fi polling will truly go to sleep when you aren’t using your device.
Do this by going to Settings > Wireless & Networks > Wireless Settings > WiFi Sleep Policy > Sleep when the screen turns off.
Easy, right?
Once you’re ready to use the tablet again, its Wi-Fi will be automatically reactivated.
These tips should provide you with a good starting point on how to start getting the most out of our Android tablet. Stay tuned for more information on hidden tablet functions and the latest news and developments in the rapidly changing world of tablet devices!