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11 Android tips, tricks for getting most from your phone

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11 Android tips, tricks for getting most from your phone

Android phones are packed with features and customization options, making them incredibly versatile and user-friendly. 

Even seasoned Android users might not be aware of all the cool tricks their devices can perform. 

Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your Android phone, including some hidden gems you may not know about.

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A person holding an Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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1. Use split-screen mode for multitasking

Split-screen mode allows you to use two apps simultaneously, perfect for multitasking. Here’s how to enable it:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Open the first app you want to use.
  • Tap the Recent Apps button (usually a square or three vertical lines).
  • Tap the app’s icon at the top of its window or hold your finger on the app until a box with options appears.
  • Select Split screen.
  • Choose the second app from your recent apps list or app drawer.

Now, you can drag the divider to adjust the screen space for each app.

BEST ANTIVIRUS FOR ANDROIDS – CYBERGUY PICKS 2024

2. Customize quick settings

Quick Settings allow you to access essential features quickly. You can customize the layout to include your most-used settings:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

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  • Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick Settings panel.
  • Swipe down again to expand the full panel.
  • Tap the pencil icon to edit.
  • Drag and drop icons to rearrange or remove them and add new ones from the bottom section.

This ensures your Quick Settings panel is tailored to your needs.

Steps to customize quick settings on Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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3. Use one-handed mode for easier navigation

One-handed mode makes it easier to use large screens with one hand. To enable it:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Go to Settings.
  • Tap Advanced features or System.
  • Select Gestures.
  • Toggle on One Handed Mode.

Now, you can swipe down from the center of the bottom edge or double-tap the Home button (depending on your choice) to shrink the screen for easier one-handed use.

Steps to use one-handed mode for easier navigation (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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4. Customize which notifications you want from which apps

Android allows you to customize notifications for different apps to prioritize important alerts. This helps ensure you don’t miss critical notifications while reducing unnecessary interruptions. Here’s how:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Go to Settings.
  • Tap Apps & Notifications (Or Apps or Notifications).
  • Select the app for which you want to customize notifications.
  • Toggle on/off to control all notifications or click on the app name to be taken to another page where you can control specific settings from the app.

Steps to customize which notifications you want from which apps (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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5. Add emojis or GIFs to your messages

Adding emojis or GIFs to your messages can make your conversations more fun and expressive. Here’s how to do it:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

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Emojis

  • Open your messaging app and start a new message or open an existing conversation.
  • Tap the text input field to open the keyboard.
  • Tap the emoji icon (usually a smiley face) on the keyboard.
  • Browse and select the emoji you want to use.

GIFs

  • Open your messaging app and start a new message or open an existing conversation.
  • Tap the text input field to open the keyboard.
  • Tap the GIF icon (usually found next to the emoji icon or under the sticker section).
  • Use the search bar to find a specific GIF or browse through popular categories.
  • Tap the GIF you want to insert it into your message.

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Steps to add emojis or GIFs to your messages (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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6. Use Google Assistant for everything and anything

Google Assistant Routines can automate multiple actions with a single command. To set up a routine:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Open the Google Assistant by saying “Hey Google” or clicking on the Google microphone in the search bar tab,
  • Ask it anything you want. This may take a few tries. Some examples are “What’s the weather?” or “Can you set an alarm for 20 minutes from now?”

Google Assistant (Google)

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7. Enable Dark Mode to preserve battery life (and reduce eye strain)

Dark Mode can help save battery life and reduce eye strain. Here’s how to enable it:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Go to Settings.
  • Tap Display.
  • Select Dark theme and toggle it on.

Some apps may or may not support Dark Mode, so keep that in mind. This can be enabled/disabled within their respective settings.

Steps to enable Dark Mode to preserve battery life (and reduce eye strain) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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8. Enable or disable Autofill

Autofill makes it easier to enter passwords and other information. To enable or disable it:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Go to Settings.
  • Tap System.
  • Select Languages & input (or Languages)
  • Tap Autofill service and choose your preferred Autofill service or disable it.

HOW TO EASILY ENABLE AND DISABLE AUTOFILL ON YOUR ANDROID

9. Make it easier to see and hear your phone

Android offers several accessibility options to make your phone easier to use. Here’s how to find and adjust them:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Go to Settings.
  • Tap Accessibility.
  • Explore options like Magnification, Font size, Color inversion and Sound Amplifier. 

These features can enhance your phone’s usability if you have vision or hearing impairments.

Steps to make it easier to see and hear your phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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10. Turn your photos into stickers

Creating custom stickers from your photos can be a fun way to personalize your messages. Here’s how:

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Open the Google Photos or your Gallery app.
  • Select a photo.
  • Once you’ve selected your image, tap on the pencil icon (the edit button)
  • Then tap on the smiley face (the decorations menu).
  • From there, select “Stickers.” You’ll see a list of pre-existing stickers, but we’re going to create our own masterpiece, so tap on the gallery icon
  • Then tap “Create Sticker.”
  • Now, it’s time to get creative. Select the image you want to use for your sticker
  • Then choose the method for cutting it out. You can go with the “Shape” option for simple cutouts or “Snap to Shape”

Now, you can use your custom stickers in messages and other apps.

HOW TO TRANSFORM YOUR PHOTOS INTO FUN STICKERS ON YOUR ANDROID

11. Use Android’s edge panels for easy access

Edge Panels provide quick access to your favorite apps, contacts and more. To enable and customize Edge Panels:

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Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Go to Settings.
  • Tap Display.
  • Select Edge screen and toggle on Edge Panels.

Customize your panels by adding the apps and shortcuts you use most. These panels make it easy to access your favorite features with a swipe.

GET QUICK ACCESS TO YOUR FAVORITE APPS WITH ANDROID’S EDGE PANELS

Kurt’s key takeaways

Android phones have loads of cool features that can help you customize your phone to fit your needs and preferences. Note, though, that even though most Androids have more or less the same settings, they can look slightly different depending on the model, what version of Android is running, etc. If you need help, you can search for how to do something based on your specific phone online, and you should find the answer. Or, go to your local phone store and ask for help.

What Android features do you love most? Are there any new tips you plan on trying from this list? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Technology

OpenAI keeps shuffling its executives in bid to win AI agent battle

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OpenAI keeps shuffling its executives in bid to win AI agent battle

OpenAI announced yet another reorganization Friday, consolidating certain areas and making company president Greg Brockman the official lead of all things product.

In a memo viewed by The Verge, Brockman wrote that since OpenAI’s product strategy for this year is to go all-in on AI agents, the company is combining its products to “invest in a single agentic platform and to merge ChatGPT and Codex into one unified agentic experience for all.”

To do this, the company is making a suite of org chart changes, although it’s still operating under some of the same ones from last month. That’s when AGI boss Fidji Simo went on medical leave and OpenAI announced that Brockman would be in charge of product strategy and CSO Jason Kwon, CFO Sarah Friar, and CRO Denise Dresser would take control of business operations.

It’s all part of OpenAI’s recent strategic shift to focus on key revenue drivers like coding and enterprise and stop pouring resources into “side quests” ahead of its potential IPO later this year and amid investor pressure to turn a profit.

In Simo’s continued absence, Brockman’s role leading product strategy is now official, as well as the company’s “scaling” arm. Under Brockman will be four different pillars. The first is core product and platform, led by Thibault Sottiaux, who has been OpenAI’s engineering lead for Codex, and the second is critical enterprise industries, led by ChatGPT head Nick Turley. Third is the consumer pillar, such as health, commerce, and personal finance, which will be led by Ashley Alexander, who has been its healthcare products VP. The fourth pillar — core infrastructure, ads, data science, and growth — will be led by Vijaye Raji, who has been OpenAI’s CTO of applications.

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Brockman wrote in the memo that OpenAI’s goal is now to “bring agents to ChatGPT scale, in order to give individuals and organizations significantly more value and utility from our products.”

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Is that traffic ticket text a scam or real?

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Is that traffic ticket text a scam or real?

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

You’re going about your day when your phone buzzes. A text hits your phone. It looks official. It sounds urgent. And suddenly, you are being told you owe money for a traffic violation. That is exactly what Todd from Texas experienced. He emailed us and said:

“I received this text message today. It was so baffling because I haven’t lived in California for nearly a decade. I didn’t click on anything or respond. How can I tell if this is for real or if this is a scam?”

If you’ve gotten a message like this, you are not alone. This type of scam is spreading fast, and it is designed to pressure you into acting before you think. Let’s break down what is really going on.

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  • Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
  • For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
  • Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.

FAKE AGENT PHONE SCAMS ARE SPREADING FAST ACROSS THE US

This message may look official, but several red flags show it is likely a scam designed to pressure you into paying quickly. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What the traffic ticket scam text looks like

At first, the message seems convincing. It claims to be a “final reminder” from the California DMV, and it warns of penalties like license suspension and added fees. It even includes a link that appears somewhat official. However, once you slow down and take a closer look, the red flags quickly start to pile up.

The biggest red flags in this message

Here are the key warning signs to watch for in messages like this.

9 WAYS SCAMMERS CAN USE YOUR PHONE NUMBER TO TRY TO TRICK YOU

1) The phone number makes no sense

The message comes from a number with a +63 country code. That is the Philippines, not California. Government agencies in the U.S. do not send official legal notices from international numbers. That alone is a major warning sign.

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2) No name, just “Dear Driver”

Legitimate notices from a DMV or court almost always include your full name or at least some identifying information. “Dear Driver” is vague on purpose. It allows scammers to send the same message to thousands of people.

3) The link isn’t a real DMV website

The message includes this link:

ca.mnvtl.life/dmv

That isn’t a government domain. Official DMV websites in California use “.ca.gov” or similar trusted domains. Scammers often create lookalike links to trick you into clicking.

4) Urgency and threats

The message pushes you to act quickly with a deadline. It lists consequences like license suspension and extra charges. Scammers rely on fear. When you feel rushed, you are more likely to click without thinking.

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5) Asking you to reply to proceed

The text says to reply with “Y” to get instructions. That is another trap. Responding confirms your number is active, which can lead to more scam messages.

6) Generic language and odd phrasing

Parts of the message feel slightly off. The tone is formal but not quite right. That subtle awkwardness is common in scam messages sent to large groups of people.

7) Overloaded threats designed to scare you

The message piles on consequences like license suspension, added fees, court action and even credit damage. In this case, it even mentions a license suspension and a $160 late payment charge. That combination is meant to overwhelm you and push you to act fast. Real agencies usually provide clear, specific notices, not a long list of escalating threats in a single text.

INSIDE A SCAMMER’S DAY AND HOW THEY TARGET YOU

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Scam texts like this often arrive out of nowhere and try to create urgency before you have time to question them. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What this means for you

Even if you have never driven in California, you could still receive this message. Scammers cast a wide net and hope someone takes the bait. If you click the link, you could be taken to a fake payment page. That page may ask for your credit card details, personal information or login credentials. In some cases, it can also install malware on your device or redirect you to credential-stealing pages. This isn’t about a ticket. It is about getting your data.  State DMVs typically do not send final legal notices or payment demands by text message.

Why these scams keep working

These messages work because they tap into something most people fear. Legal trouble, fines and losing driving privileges. They also look just real enough to pass a quick glance. That is all scammers need. As more services move online, these scams will continue to evolve.

Unlike typical DMV scams, this message impersonates a court and escalates the threats to make the situation feel more serious (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Ways to stay safe from traffic ticket text scams

Start with a simple rule. Never trust a payment request that shows up out of nowhere. Here are practical steps you can take:

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1) Do not click the link

If you are unsure, do not tap anything in the message. That includes links and reply options.

2) Use strong antivirus software

If you accidentally click a link, strong antivirus software can help detect malware and protect your data. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

3) Verify directly with the DMV

Go to your state’s official DMV website by typing it yourself into your browser. Do not use the link in the text.

4) Check the sender carefully

Look at the phone number. International numbers or random strings are a clear warning sign.

5) Ignore generic greetings

Real notices will usually include your name or case details. Vague language is a red flag.

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6) Consider a data removal service

Scammers often get your number from data broker sites. Removing your personal info from those databases with a data removal service can reduce these messages. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com

7) Block and report the number

On your phone, block the sender and report it as spam. This helps reduce future attempts.

8) Turn on spam filtering

Enable spam filtering on your phone or through your carrier to catch more of these messages before they reach you.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Todd did the right thing. He paused, questioned the message and did not click. That one decision likely saved him from handing over personal information. When it comes to messages like this, skepticism is your best defense. If something feels off, trust that instinct.

Should phone carriers and tech companies be doing more to block scams like this before you ever see them? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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  • For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
  • Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join. 

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Honda’s hybrid future starts with new Accord and RDX prototypes

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Honda’s hybrid future starts with new Accord and RDX prototypes

Honda revealed prototypes of two new hybrid models, an Accord sedan and the Acura RDX SUV, during its annual business briefing this week, built on a platform that it says will begin launching next year. The RDX was announced earlier this year as Honda’s first SUV to feature the next-gen version of its two-motor hybrid system.

In March, Honda announced it would take a writedown of up to 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) on its EV investments. Now Honda says its EV-related losses will be “resolved” by 2029, and that it will reevaluate its EV plans in 2030.

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