Android 5.0 Lollipop is one of the biggest updates released by Google to the Android software. The fifth version of Android has arrived with the Nexus 6 and Nexus 9, and is now rolling out to the other Android devices.
Android Lollipop comes with a number of new features that provide a big usability boost. While some of these features are pretty straightforward and easily visible, but there are others that only experienced Android users could know that they exist. Here are some Android Lollipop tips, tricks and hidden features you need to know about, so you’re ready for when Lollipop lands on your device.
Flappy Bird Clone Easter Egg
Google has always slipped in an Easter egg with a new release of Android and Lollipop is no exception. In Android Lollipop, the Easter Egg is a Flappy Bird clone. However, the bird has been replaced with the green Android robot.
To play the game, go to Settings -> About Phone and repeatedly tap ‘Android version’ till it changes to the Lollipop screen. Long press on the lollipop and the game will start. Simply touch the screen to start playing. Enjoy!
Smart Lock
Android Lollipop has a new locking feature called ‘Smart Lock’ that will make securing your device easier than ever. It lets you bypass your secure lock screen when you’re in a “trusted environment.” This means that if you’re connected to a known Bluetooth device or a NFC enabled device such as smartwatch, car stereo, or even an NFC sticker, you don’t have to bother entering your pattern, PIN, or password.
To turn this on, go to Settings -> Security -> Smart Lock and set which Bluetooth devices are trusted.
Screen pinning
To take security to another level, Google has added a new feature called “Screen Pinning” that allows you to pin the particular screen to your Android device.
By enabling this function, no other setting or app can be opened except the pinned screen.This could be useful when you are in a situation to handover your mobile to your friends or unknown persons.
To enable screen pinning, go to Settings -> Security and toggle ‘Screen Pinning’ ON. Next open the screen you would like to pin, press the ‘Overview’ (formerly multitasking) button, scroll up and tap the pin icon on the bottom right of the open applications.
To unpin an app, simply long press the ‘Back’ and ‘Overview’ buttons simultaneously.
Priority Notifications
When it comes to alerts and notifications, Android 5.0 Lollipop has a new priority mode, which lets you control how you receive notifications. It is similar to the ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode in iOS 8 that lets you silence your phone at a specified time each day so you won’t be disturbed.
You can also select which contacts are allowed through the notification blockade. To make use of the priority mode, go to Settings -> Sound & notification > Interruptions.
Battery Saver
Battery saver is one of the best new features of Android Lollipop. When enabled, it will turn off vibrations, cuts off background data and reduces brightness. You can can enable it manually or set it to automatically kick in when your battery is at 15% or 5%. You’ll know it’s working when the status bars turn orange-red. To set up battery saver, go to Settings -> Battery -> tap the ‘Menu’ button.
Multiple Users
It’s now possible to set up multiple users on Android. There are three types of accounts that you can set up on Lollipop. First the user account, which has full access to settings and apps. Second, the guest account, which will not record or save anything that anyone will do in this account, so you won’t have to worry about your configurations being messed up. Finally, there’s the profile account, which lets the owner restrict how the device is used – disabling certain apps for example. You can quickly add new accounts by taping the profile icon in the top right-hand corner of the lock-screen, or by going into the main settings menu. If you want to add restrictions and manage each account, go to the main settings menu and select ‘Users’.
Flashlight
There is also now a built-in flashlight function in Lollipop. With the feature, you will not need to download a third party application anymore for it. The flashlight is found in the notifications bar. Just swipe down the notification area from the top of the screen with two fingers then tap ‘Flashlight’. Please note that this app will only work if your device has an LED flash alongside its camera.
Search Settings
Android lollipop includes a new settings search function that let you specifically search the settings menu. When you go to the Settings app, you’ll see a new magnifying glass search icon in the top right. It appears on most pages within the Settings app.
To find what you need, simply tap the magnifying glass in the top right-hand corner in the settings menu and type what you’re looking for. A list of relevant results will then appear as you type.
Tap and Go
Android Lollipop also makes it easier to migrate content from one device to another by including Tap & Go. With this feature, you will now be able to quickly transfer all data backed up on your Google account from your old phone including apps and its data.
“Tap and Go” uses NFC to pair two devices and use Bluetooth to send over all the details of what your old phone should have installed over to the new phone.
Tap to Wake
Tap to wake is another useful feature Google’s implemented on the Lollipop. Instead of using the power button, you can now simply double tap the screen to wake up your device.
