4 min read
Connectivity features play a huge role in how devices interact with each other and the internet. Android offers plenty of popular tools like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and mobile hotspot that most users rely on daily. But beyond these common features, Android hides even more powerful options that can improve your experience dramatically. Let’s explore these hidden Android features to supercharge your connectivity and get the most out of your device.
Automatically Turn Bluetooth Back On
Bluetooth is essential for connecting wireless earbuds, speakers, or your car’s system. iPhones have had a feature where Bluetooth turns itself back on automatically after being disabled, and now Android 15 brings a similar automation to Pixel phones.
To activate it:
- Open Settings > Connected Devices > Connection Preferences > Bluetooth.
- Enable Bluetooth, then toggle on Automatically turn on tomorrow.
This way, Bluetooth will reactivate the next day after you disable it. While it slightly impacts battery life, it’s negligible if no device is actively transmitting data.
Access Detailed Wi-Fi Insights
On some Samsung devices, a hidden Connectivity Labs feature offers advanced Wi-Fi data. It shows daily and weekly usage stats, automatic reconnection settings, faster switches to mobile data, and network diagnostics.
To unlock it:
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Tap the three-dot menu > Intelligent Wi-Fi.
- Tap Intelligent Wi-Fi repeatedly until Connectivity Labs appears.
Use this feature to troubleshoot network problems and understand your Wi-Fi habits better.
Turn Your Android Phone into a Webcam
Laptop webcams usually offer poor image quality because of their tiny sensors. Android 14 introduced — and Android 15 improved — the ability to use your phone as a high-quality webcam.
Here’s how to do it:
- Connect your phone to your PC with a USB cable.
- Tap the notification about the USB connection and choose Use USB for Webcam.
- Tap the HQ button for High-Quality Mode during calls.
This hidden Android feature is perfect for clearer virtual meetings.
Share Wi-Fi or Hotspot Passwords Using QR Codes
Typing out Wi-Fi or hotspot passwords can be tedious. Android lets you generate a QR code for quick, secure sharing.
To share Wi-Fi:
- Open Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Tap the info icon next to the connected network.
- Tap Share (authentication required) to reveal a QR code.
To share a hotspot:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering.
- Enable your hotspot and tap the small QR code icon to share it.
Note: Be cautious as the password can still be visible under the QR code on some screens.
Transfer Files Wirelessly from Android to iPhone
Sharing files between Android and iPhone is often a hassle. Android 15 introduces a smoother solution for select devices like OnePlus, Oppo, and Realme phones to share with iPhone.
To use it:
- Go to Settings > Connection & Sharing > Share with iPhone and enable it.
- On the iPhone, download and open the O+ Connect app.
- Turn on Bluetooth, select your files, and send them wirelessly.
While not a fully native feature, it’s a big step toward easier cross-platform sharing.
Enable Wi-Fi Calling for Better Voice Quality
If you’re in a spot with weak cell service but strong Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi calling can save the day.
To activate Wi-Fi calling:
- Open the Google Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu > Settings > Calls > Wi-Fi Calling.
- Toggle on Use Wi-Fi Calling.
Your calls and texts will now route through the internet instead of cell towers, improving reliability in poor-signal areas.
Explore Even More Hidden Android Features
Android’s flexibility means every phone brand hides unique gems — from multitasking shortcuts to advanced privacy tools. What you find on Samsung could differ from OnePlus or Google Pixel models. Digging into your settings can uncover even more hidden Android features that boost connectivity, accessibility, and productivity. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, tapping into these lesser-known tools can transform your mobile experience.
