Google is now implementing Loss of Pulse Detection in the US after yesterday’s April 2025 OTA update and Scam Detection.
Google is officially launching Loss of Pulse Detection in the US after receiving FDA approval, which was initially anticipated at the end of March. Last year, it became available throughout Europe.
Make sure your Pixel Watch 3’s Personal Safety Wear OS software is up to date before turning it on. 2025.03.19.x is the most recent version that is available on the Play Store.
Afterwards, go to the Pixel Watch companion app on your phone (version 3.4+) > Safety & emergency > Loss of Pulse Detection to start the set-up process.
Google tells us that it’s beginning to roll out today and will be fully available over the coming weeks.
Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm)
The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit; the 41mm screen is twice as bright and 10% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info[
A loss-of-pulse event is when your heart stops beating, which can happen during a cardiac arrest, respiratory or circulatory failure, overdose, or poisoning. Similar to Fall and Car Crash Detection, the Pixel Watch 3 will ask users to certify their safety when it detects something.
In the event that there is no reaction (or movement), the wearable will notify emergency personnel, give your location, and provide information about what is going on. The Pixel Watch 3‘s multipath heart rate monitor, additional sensors, and a “multi-check, AI-based algorithm” are all used by Loss of Pulse Detection.
According to the official statement, “Loss of Pulse Detection may not detect every instance of a loss of pulse and is not intended for users who require cardiac monitoring or who have pre-existing heart conditions.” It does not offer follow-up care or diagnose or treat any medical conditions.
Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm)
The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit; the 41mm screen is twice as bright and 10% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info[
Want to lock apps without downloading extra software? Learn how to use built-in tools on Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus, and other Android phones to secure your apps with passwords or biometrics – no third-party apps required.
Why Lock Apps on Android?
Your smartphone contains plenty of personal information, including images, bank accounts, social network profiles, and private messages. Locking specific apps provides an additional layer of security, particularly when sharing your device or preventing unintentional snooping.
Most people jump straight to third-party app lockers. But these:
May ask for invasive permissions
Show ads or collect data
Drain battery and storage
That’s why using built-in features is often the smarter, safer move.
Samsung Devices (One UI) – Use Secure Folder
Samsung includes a powerful privacy tool called Secure Folder, protected by Samsung Knox.
How to use:
Open Settings
Tap Biometrics and security
Select Secure Folder and sign in with your Samsung account
Set up a lock type (PIN, password, fingerprint, etc.)
Add apps or files to your Secure Folder
Bonus Tip: You can also hide the Secure Folder icon from the app drawer to keep it totally invisible.
Xiaomi / Redmi / POCO Devices (MIUI) – Use App Lock
MIUI has a built-in App Lock feature that is super easy to set up.
Steps:
Open Settings
Go to Apps > App Lock
Set a privacy password (or use your existing phone lock)
Choose which apps to lock
Optionally enable fingerprint unlock for convenience
This works for apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Gmail, and more.
OnePlus Devices (OxygenOS) – Use App Locker
OnePlus provides App Locker, a native feature that locks your apps and hides their notifications.
How to enable:
Open Settings
Scroll to Utilities > App Locker
Tap Add Apps and select the apps you want to lock
Enable Fingerprint Unlock for fast access
Toggle Hide Notification Content to prevent preview leaks
App Locker can even keep apps locked in the background, offering persistent protection.
Realme / Oppo Devices (ColorOS) – Use App Lock
These brands offer similar features under the Privacy menu.
Steps:
Go to Settings > Privacy > App Lock
Set a privacy password (separate from your phone unlock)
Select apps you want to lock
Enable Face or Fingerprint Unlock
You’ll be asked for verification each time the app is opened.
Huawei / Honor Devices (EMUI) – Use App Lock
Huawei’s App Lock is baked into the EMUI interface.
To set it up:
Open Settings
Tap Security & Privacy > App Lock
Set a password
Select apps to protect
This feature integrates well with fingerprint unlock, so you won’t have to type the password every time.
Your phone does not have App Lock?
If your phone’s Android version or manufacturer doesn’t include app locking, here are a few alternatives:
Screen Pinning: Locks your phone to one app.
Settings > Security > Screen Pinning
Useful for letting kids watch YouTube without leaving the app
Multiple Users / Guest Mode:
Settings > System > Multiple Users
Create a guest profile for others using your phone
✅ Be cautious about sharing your device or leaving it unlocked
Locking apps without third-party apps is easier, more effective, and safer than you might expect. Whether you utilize Samsung’s Secure Folder, Xiaomi’s App Lock, or OnePlus’ App Locker, you can protect your important data with a few touches.
So, before you download another app, check your phone’s settings as you may already have all you need to keep your digital life private and secure.
The home screen of your smartphone serves as the entryway to your digital life, and you may personalize it to improve its usability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. This article explains how to customize your home screen for a genuinely one-of-a-kind experience, from altering the background to adding widgets and arranging apps.
Change wallpaper
The aesthetic tone of your smartphone is established by your wallpaper. Changing your wallpaper is easy, regardless of your preference for abstract art, beautiful landscapes, or intimate portraits.
On Android:
Long-press an empty space on the home screen.
Select Wallpaper or Wallpaper & style from the pop-up menu.
Choose a pre-installed wallpaper or select an image from your gallery.
Decide whether to apply it to the Home screen, Lock screen, or both
On iOS:
Open Settings > Wallpaper > Choose a New Wallpaper.
Select an image from Apple’s preloaded options or your photo library.
Adjust and tap Set to apply it to the Home screen, Lock screen, or both9
Add widgets for quick access
Without opening apps, widgets offer functionality and information at a glance.
On Android:
Long-press an empty area on the home screen and tap Widgets.
Browse through available widgets (e.g., clock, weather, calendar).
Select a widget and drag it to your desired location on the screen.
On iOS:
Touch and hold the Home Screen background until apps jiggle.
Tap the “+” icon in the upper-left corner.
Choose a widget from the list and select its size (small, medium, large).
Tap Add Widget, then drag it into place
Organize apps
A clutter-free home screen improves usability and makes navigation faster.
Create Folders:
Drag one app icon onto another to create a folder.
Add more apps by dragging them into the folder.
Rename folders by tapping on them and selecting the name field.
Arrange Apps:
Move frequently used apps to the first page of your home screen for quick access.
Drag icons to different pages or positions by holding and moving them.
Advanced Organization Tips:
Use themed rows (e.g., “Work,” “Social,” “Entertainment”).
Sort apps by frequency of use or color coding for visual appeal.
Use customization apps
Download specialized home screen customization programs like WidgetClub or Nova Launcher for more sophisticated customization choices including unique icons, fonts, and themes.
Benefits:
Access all-in-one themes that include wallpapers, widgets, and icons.
Customize grid layouts for app placement flexibility
I have spent a significant chunk of my life looking for ways to extend the battery life of my Android phones. That may sound dramatic, but growing up with only inexpensive models meant I was constantly modifying device settings to get the most out of their batteries. Thanks to this micromanaging, I was able to drive the batteries on all of my previous devices to their utmost limits. I do not want to keep this knowledge for myself, so I chose to share it with everyone.
There are numerous strategies for extending battery life. However, there are 12 important options that can be changed right now to see immediate results. The following list highlights the most effective, simple, and quick modifications to boost device longevity regardless of the Android phone you are using, whether it is the latest Samsung model, a luxury Google Pixel, or a cutting-edge OnePlus 13. Furthermore, you will not have to compromise the high-quality experience of using your phone.
Although the power settings are nearly identical on every Android phone available, the procedure of changing them varies by device. Keep this in mind when following the procedures I have outlined, as the technique may alter slightly based on the model you are using.
Turn off the always-on display
The always-on display is one of the largest battery drainers on any smartphone. Companies frequently claim that this display setting only consumes 1% to 2% per hour, but let us be honest: it is always far more. It may be convenient to check the time on your phone while it is sitting on a table, but it is unlikely to be worth the sacrifice of battery life.
Open the Settings app and navigate to the Lock Screen section. This section will most likely be found in the main Settings list or under “Display.” From there, look for the option to “always show info” or a simple toggle to enable the Always On Display. In any case, disable the option and ensure that when you lock your device, it turns absolutely blank.
Switch to dark mode
Over the last few years, many midrange and inexpensive Android phones have followed in the footsteps of their flagship counterparts, adopting OLED displays. When not in use, the technology allows individual pixels to fade or turn entirely off. This feature is considerably more efficient for battery life than typical LCD screens with a single large backlight. By switching to your phone’s dark theme, those pixels will get dimmer much more frequently, saving some battery life.
Go to Settings > Display on your Android device. There are options to choose between a light and dark theme, as well as to have dark mode turn on automatically at specific times of day. To get the most out of your battery, I recommend having dark mode on constantly.
Remove unused accounts
We have all done it: you open a new account for a social networking app or email service (which you subsequently forget about) and then create another account to serve as your primary account for that service or platform. I have been through this process several times. If you create accounts on your phone, all previous accounts stay, constantly refreshing and depleting your battery life in the background. I strongly advocate uninstalling some outdated accounts from your smartphone as soon as possible.
Go to the Settings app and find the accounts section (on Samsung phones, it’s called “Accounts and backup” while Pixel phones use “Passwords & accounts“). You’ll find a list of all the accounts synced to your phone. Tap on one of them and scroll down to the “Remove account” button. Tap it, and the account will disappear.
Reduce the screen’s refresh rate.
Phone screens have improved dramatically in recent years, thanks in part to quicker refresh rates implemented by manufacturers. Increasing the frequency with which a screen refreshes, whether at 90Hz, 120Hz, or even faster, makes animations, scrolling social media, and everyday activities feel smoother and more responsive. Unfortunately, a fast refresh rate consumes more battery power; you may be better off removing the option in some cases.
Open the Settings app and go to the Display section. Here you will find the options for configuring your refresh rate. Most smartphones refer to the function differently; for example, Google refers to it as “Smooth Display” whereas Samsung refers to it as “Motion Smoothness” Find the refresh rate setting and reset it to the regular rate. Your screen will most certainly appear choppier as a result, but this is totally normal. It simply means that it operates at 60Hz, which was the pace at which even the greatest phones ran a few years ago.
Turn off “Hey Google”
If your phone is always listening for you to say, “Hey, Google,” your battery is probably running low. Your microphone is engaged, waiting to hear you utter the two magic phrases that activate the digital assistant, and running that procedure all day consumes a significant amount of energy. Anyone who does not utilize the Assistant on a daily basis should disable the feature without hesitation. And let us be honest: how many of us use the assistance every day?
Open the Google app on your phone and select your profile photo from the top-right corner. Then, go to Settings > Google Assistant > Hey Google & Voice Match, and turn off “Hey Google” Now, your phone will only activate the Assistant if you hold down the power button or use another method.
Block apps to send notifications
You may not realize it, but notifications can be one of the most significant drains on your phone’s battery life. Not only does your phone buzz and ding all day, but the applications themselves are continually refreshing in the background, looking for new notifications to transmit to you. Most apps provide options for reducing the number of alerts you receive, but the simplest way to turn them off is through your phone’s Settings app.
Go to Settings > Notifications > App notifications to see a list of all the apps installed on your phone. Next to each entry are toggles that, when flipped, will disable all notifications for that particular app.
Keyboard sounds and haptics
If you are using your phone, you are probably typing on the keyboard a lot, whether it is to post on social media or answer to messages from friends. If you activate sound and haptic feedback, your phone’s battery life may suffer since it must produce a succession of vibrations and noises each time you tap a letter. Hearing and feeling the keyboard as you type is a pleasant experience, but it is not ideal for getting the most out of a fully charged battery.
Open the Settings app and navigate to “Language and input” This section contains your keyboard settings. Find the place where you may select your default keyboard and hit the gear icon next to it to modify settings. If you use Gboard (like most people), go to Preferences > Keypress and turn off “Sound on Keypress” and “Haptic feedback on Keypress“
Enable Adaptive Battery
Android include a useful function called Adaptive Battery, which is available on most handsets. Adaptive Battery may automatically control your phone’s performance and efficiency in the background, extending battery life through specific methods. For example, when you do not need maximum speed for something as basic as browsing through your inbox, the setting will slow things down and save you some battery life.
Go to Settings > Battery > Adaptive preferences and check to ensure “Adaptive battery” is enabled. If it’s not, flick it on.
Use battery saver to increase battery life
Battery Saver mode, like Adaptive Battery, is a useful function that helps increase the life of your smartphone between charges. The function makes significant modifications to your device’s firmware, including as limiting visual effects, restricting background apps, and putting on dark mode if it is not already enabled.
Most, if not all, Android phones have a Battery Saver feature, albeit it may have a different name. On Galaxy phones, for example, it is known as Power Saving Mode. Some may refer to it as low-power mode. For assistance with your specific model, check your phone manufacturer’s support website.
On Pixel phones, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Saver. You can also choose a schedule for when the feature will activate or turn off automatically. On Galaxy phones, go to Settings > Battery and Device Care > Battery. Flip the toggle switch next to Power Saving to activate the feature.
Samsung’s One UI 7 is now my favorite Android skin. It is quick, responsive, and simple. However, nothing is pre-programmed for your specific experience. You should personalize your smartphone to make it more appealing. I modify about a dozen settings on each Samsung Galaxy phone to better fit my needs, and I believe these will improve your user experience as well.
Here are some OneUI settings that I recommend adjusting to improve your Galaxy phone experience, ranging from selecting the highest attainable screen resolution to adding extra privacy-focused features. Please be aware that some settings may be phone-specific.
Switch to gesture navigation
Unless you are setting up your new Samsung Galaxy phone from an older model, it will use the outdated three-button navigation mechanism. If you enjoy it, that is OK. However, I find Android’s gesture navigation more intuitive—everything is a swipe away rather than an on-screen button.
If you want that, you can change the system navigation to gestures by going to Settings > Display > Navigation bar > Swipe gestures.
Set screen resolution to high – QHD+
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts the finest smartphone display available right now. It is less reflective and has better color display than its predecessor, thanks to second-generation Gorilla Armour. You have a great QHD+ screen, but it is not set to that resolution by default.
To have the best possible viewing experience, navigate to Settings > viewing > Screen resolution. The Ultra will consume more battery, but it is an efficient smartphone. Even after maxing out the screen resolution, I still have an all-day battery life.
Adjust the lock screen notifications.
One UI 7 has modified the way notifications appear on your lock screen. It is set to display icons in the top left corner by default, which is a significant departure from the prior card view. I prefer that apps display notifications in the latter way. To modify this, navigate to Settings > Notifications > Lock screen notifications > Cards.
I also hide important notification content on the lock screen since I do not want anyone walking up to my phone and reading my personal communications. To modify this setting, select Hide content from the same Lock screen notifications menu.
Uninstall the bloatware
Samsung Galaxy phones provide numerous apps that you may not utilize. Unlike prior years, you may now remove or disable them to conserve memory. For example, I do not own a Samsung TV and do not want the Microsoft CoPilot app on my phone, so I uninstall both TV and CoPilot. Other programs that I disable or uninstall include Facebook, Samsung Tutor, and OneDrive.
Always-on display
Samsung phones have efficient screens; make the most of them by enabling everything, including the Always On display. I enjoy having the time, day, and date information there on the screen, accessible at a look. Samsung defaults to the Tap to see setting, which requires you to tap on the screen to access information.
I recommend altering that to Always to make it more useful. Navigate to Settings > Lock Screen and AOD > Always-On Display > Always. You may select whether or not to display the wallpaper; I have set it to only display a black screen to save battery life.
Homescreen customization
Samsung’s phone widgets are among the best available. I enjoy the Calendar widget since I can change the transparency. As a consequence, it looks nicer and retains functionality while preserving the structure of my home screen. I set it at the top so that everything is just a glance away, but it never asks for attention, unlike other opaque Calendar widgets.
Also, change the icon grid to a 5×5 layout to permit more icons in the bottom row. They are only a thumb tap away. In addition, I apply my wallpaper color tones to the program icons for a more appealing appearance. To apply wallpaper colors to the entire system, navigate to Wallpaper and Style > Color Palette and turn it on. It is not flawless, and some icons may still be unsupported. However, it appears better than the standard colors.
SAMSUNG Galaxy S25 Ultra
Streamline your day with an assistant that gets you. Ask it to Google search for a pet-friendly vegan restaurant nearby and text it to your friend— your Galaxy S25 Ultra handles multiple tasks with a single ask.
Other things I do on my Galaxy phones include switching to Google Keyboard and organizing the home drawer icons alphabetically for easier navigation. Samsung phones are among the best on the market. While they do not promise groundbreaking features, they are dependable and provide the most refined user interface with One UI. Simply modify these few options, and you will be all set.
Samsung has acknowledged that a sleep-tracking problem affects a number of its most recent GalaxyWatch models, but thankfully, it has also suggested a few solutions.
SamMobile discovered a Samsung Community forum in Korea where the firm disclosed that the Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra, two of its top smartwatches, might not be accurately detecting sleep.
SamMobile discovered a Samsung Community forum in Korea where the firm disclosed that the Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra, two of its top smartwatches, might not be accurately detecting sleep.
The issue, which also affects the Galaxy Watch 4, 5, and 6, means that “sleep-related measurement values are not reflected properly in the Samsung Health app on the Galaxy Watch.”
For consumers who might be having problems, Samsung has provided a few patches. We have contacted Samsung for further information, but as mentioned, this message was only made on a Korean forum, so it is unclear at this time whether the problem is regional.
In any case, here are some fixes for your Galaxy Watch if you are experiencing problems with sleep monitoring.
How to correct the Galaxy Watch’s sleep tracking
Samsung advises users to turn the device off and on again as the initial step in tech troubleshooting. It claims to be working on a new version of the Samsung Health app to address the problem in the meanwhile.
In particular, Samsung advises users to activate and then deactivate the Galaxy Watch’s power-saving mode under the Watch’s Settings app.
Lastly, users should get the most recent version of the Samsung Health software from the Galaxy Store. It is unclear whether this is the promised upgrade to the app or a temporary solution. However, all of these adjustments are fantastic starting points if your Galaxy Watch is having trouble tracking your sleep.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
1.5″ Super AMOLED, 480x480px ~327ppi, 425mAh Battery, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, MIL-STD-810H compliant, 50m/5ATM water resistant (IP68), ECG certified, Sleep Coach, Heart Monitor
You have heard about ADB and that you ought to turn it on for your Android phone. But why?
Here are three reasons to enable ADB on your smartphone right now.
Wirelessly mirroring phone to PC
The most recent versions of macOS and iOS allow you to mirror the screen of your iPhone to your Mac. In certain situations, this can be really helpful. However, what about Android? Unfortunately, there is not a built-in method for mirroring the screen of your Android handset to a Windows computer—or any computer, really.
But that is where scrcpy is useful. “Screen copy” is represented by the unusual name, and the application’s name is bolded. I was able to utilize scrcpy with ADB over my home network on my OnePlus 13R, and it was great, despite the strange name.
The mirrored display functions just as it would if you were physically touching it, and there was hardly any lag when using Scrcpy. Everything worked as I had anticipated, and I could utilize gestures just like I could with the OnePlus 13R.
You can use the command scrcpy in the terminal to remotely connect to your phone and display (and interact with) its screen on your computer after it has been installed on macOS, Windows, or Linux.
I have two devices linked to my PC: a Wi-Fi device and a USB device. To force the connection over Wi-Fi, I used the command scrcpy -e, and it worked perfectly. Using scrcpy -d would force the connection over USB, but unless you do not have a reliable Wi-Fi network, I do not see why you should do this.
In any case, utilize scrcpy to keep your phone’s screen shown on your computer. Just be aware that the program will only function if your phone is unlocked and the screen is turned on. You will also need to input any passcodes on your phone’s screen, not your computer’s.
Sync files between your computer and phone
Even though ADB comes with the adb push and adb pull commands built in, I much like use the program better-adb-sync than the built-in options. It is more akin to an rsync tool that allows you to synchronize files between your phone and computer.
The –show-progress parameter is one feature that sets it apart from the built-in commands, even if the core operation is fairly similar to that of adb push and adb pull. This will display the status of the file transmission between your computer and phone. After installation, the better-adb-sync command is simply adbsync. If you want to transfer a video file from your phone’s storage to your computer while displaying the progress, you would use a command like adbsync –show-progress pull /sdcard/video.mp4.
Personally, I think it is essential to know the status of a transfer. Sending a command and then waiting for a blank response till it fails or succeeds is something I detest. Does it still function? Does the transfer continue? Was it stalling? Is it moving slowly? Is it taking so long because of that? I frequently ask all of these questions when transferring files in the terminal.
I think it is essential to be able to use the –show-progress flag with better-adb-sync, and I am sure you will find it useful as well.
Move files to your computer wirelessly
ADB is the answer if you have ever wished to quickly take a screenshot of your phone and transfer the image to your computer.
To take a screenshot of your phone’s screen, just type the command adb shell screencap /sdcard/screen.png. After that, the file will be pulled to your computer using a program like adbsync pull /sdcard/screen.png. If you are also wirelessly connected to your phone, you may accomplish all of this over Wi-Fi without the need for wires.
When you require the information from your phone but are attempting to send anything from your computer, this can be helpful. If you have multiple phones and are unable to recall which button shortcut to use to capture a screenshot, you could also just utilize it.
There are several justifications for using this command, and I believe each one is sound. Additionally, it works well with better-adb-sync, which makes it simple to transfer the file to your computer after taking a screenshot.
Do you want to know additional ADB commands for your Android phone? Every Android user should be familiar with these nine of the greatest ADB commands.
You can link your driver’s license or state ID to your Google Wallet in certain US states. It is a practical way to carry and show your ID, however there are some restrictions. Google has caught up to Apple, which was the first to introduce this feature in 2021.
You can add your driver’s license to Google Wallet if you know how to add your credit card. We let you know if you can add your driver’s license or state ID to Google Wallet and walk you through the process of adding and removing it. Google Wallet works with devices other than smartphones. With any of our favorite smartwatches, you can show your ID right from your wrist.
Where you can use your ID from Google Wallet
The only US states that permit IDs to be kept in the Google Wallet app are Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland. Additionally, several states permit the storage of their IDs in Apple Wallet.
Since Google must collaborate with each state to integrate its IDs into Google Wallet, the rollout to more states is sluggish. The process is slowed substantially by the fact that every state handles IDs differently. Since Arizona and Georgia partnered with Apple in 2021, just six states have implemented digital ID systems.
The driver license can be added to Google Wallet too
Georgian and Maryland digital IDs saved in Google Wallet are accepted at a few participating airports nationwide. Colorado and Utah IDs are accepted in more contexts, such as when demonstrating your age at a restaurant. However, in any circumstance where your digital ID is approved, you must always carry your physical ID with you.
California and Utah, if you reside there, have their own digital ID applications and regulations regarding where you can use your ID. Whether Google Wallet will be supported in these states is unknown.
Is safe to store your ID in Google Wallet?
Although a digital copy of your driver’s license or state ID may appear less secure, there are steps in the process that ensure the security of your personal information. These components guarantee that only you have access to your personal information, however part of this is because of the setup procedure (which we will take you through soon).
Your digital ID is encrypted on your phone.
It can only be accessed with biometric authentication.
You choose what data is shared each time you show your ID.
Your digital ID can be deleted remotely.
How to add the ID or driver’s license to Google Wallet
You will know how to begin if you have added credit cards, transport passes, or rewards cards to Google Wallet before. But adding your driver’s license or state ID requires a more extensive procedure.
Open the Google Wallet app.
Tap Add to Wallet in the lower-right corner of your screen.
Tap ID card. This option only appears if you live in the US.
Tap your state ID.
Scan the front and back of your ID.
Record a short video where you’ll turn to show the front, sides, and bottom of your face.
Submit your application to the state.
Your application takes a few minutes to process. Your driver’s license is ready to view in Google Wallet when you receive the confirmation notification.
How to remove your state ID or driver’s license from Google Wallet
It only takes a few touches to delete your driver’s license or state ID if you are worried about its security. You can delete it remotely using the same technique as taking any digital card out of your wallet.
Remove your digital ID from the Google Wallet app
Open Google Wallet
Tap your ID card.
Tap the three-dot button in the upper-right corner of the screen.
How to provide your electronic identification at TSA PreCheck
You can display a QR code or utilize NFC with tap-to-pay to use your digital ID card. First, you must schedule an in-person visit at an enrollment location to register for TSA PreCheck. To utilize your digital ID after registering, take the following actions:
Hold your phone over the TSA reader terminal. The reader automatically pulls up your ID.
Confirm the data you are sharing by tapping Continue in the lower-right corner of your phone screen.
Verify your identity using biometric identification.
Display your ID safely and conveniently
There are numerous benefits to carrying your driver’s license on your phone as opposed to a physical card. It eliminates the need to carry your wallet to bars, though employees may refuse to serve you if they think it is inappropriate. You can only present the necessary documentation.
NFC communication is the backbone behind sharing your digital ID.
Picking up my phone to check a notification or respond to a text annoys me since I want convenience. I always keep WhatsApp Web open in a tab because of this. Even while it meets the most of my communications requirements, it is insufficient. As a huge admirer of Apple’s iPhone Mirroring function, I have been searching for a practical method to manage my Android phone from my computer. I can do just that with these four apps.
Sometimes you need to remotely control your Android phone, either to access your device from a distance or to assist a buddy in troubleshooting a problem. This is made simple by TeamViewer QuickSupport, which provides complete remote control, enabling you to install apps, change settings, and browse menus from your PC.
It is easy to set up. Install the QuickSupport app on your phone, connect using the TeamViewer desktop app, and give the person helping you the unique ID. They are perfect for remote management, troubleshooting, and technical help because they can operate your device in real time when they are linked. In contrast to many alternatives, TeamViewer is compatible with web browsers, Linux, macOS, and Windows. End-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication are two of its robust security features. Additionally, it facilitates communication and file transfers, which facilitates teamwork.
There are certain drawbacks to TeamViewer. Access may be restricted by the limited free version, which may mark frequent personal use as commercial. Since network quality affects performance, lag may result from slower connections. It works well for remote control, but unlike Phone Link or Scrcpy, it is not designed for everyday phone mirroring.
TeamViewer QuickSupport is still among the best choices for safe, cross-platform remote access, particularly for IT assistance and troubleshooting.
Microsoft Phone Link, which is integrated into Windows 10 and 11, allows you to easily connect your Android phone to your PC. Without touching your phone, you can make calls, control notifications, send texts, and view recent photos.
The ability to replicate apps is one of its strongest features. For apps without web versions, you can use your mouse and keyboard to interact with them when you launch specific mobile apps on your PC. It is easy to set up. You can connect your Android phone to your PC via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi after installing the Link to Windows app on your phone. Everything updates automatically once it is synchronized, and the connection is secure.
Phone Link is revolutionary if you operate on a computer for extended periods of time. It ensures that you remain connected while minimizing distractions. The majority of Android phones can utilize its primary functions, albeit Samsung Galaxy devices are the greatest fit for it.
AirDroid is another excellent option if you want complete control over your Android phone from your PC. It is cross-platform, having a web interface and specific Windows and macOS programs, unlike some rivals. Once configured, you can remotely access your phone’s camera, manage SMS messages, respond to notifications, transfer files, and mirror your screen without ever touching your device.
It is easy to get started. Use the desktop software or log in via a browser after installing the AirDroid app on your Android phone and creating an account. Everything connects immediately if you are on the same Wi-Fi network. Although remote access is feasible, a paid subscription is needed for services like screen mirroring over mobile networks.
AirDroid’s versatility is what sets it apart. For presentations or to view particular apps, you can mirror your screens. You can even transfer data across devices wirelessly. Another benefit that helps you stay informed about messages and alerts while working is notification mirroring. Despite having a lot of functionality, AirDroid maintains simplicity with a clear, user-friendly interface. Premium users receive end-to-end encryption for added security if security is a top concern.
It can be inconvenient to constantly pick up your phone to check things, particularly if you work on a PC. By enabling you to mirror and manage your Android phone from your PC, Scrcpy solves this problem. It has no bloat and is free.
With an emphasis on low-latency, high-resolution screen mirroring without root access, Scrcpy is quick, light, and open source in contrast to many commercial programs. You have the option of using Wi-Fi or USB, depending on what is more convenient for you. It is easy to set up. After downloading the app, connect your phone to your PC and turn on USB debugging. When it is operating, you may use your keyboard and mouse to interact with your phone’s screen, which displays in real time.
Scrcpy is a comprehensive mirroring solution that supports audio forwarding in its latest versions. Wireless performance can vary, though, and some users may find the absence of integrated file sharing and multi-device functionality to be a drawback. Furthermore, even though third-party graphical interfaces are available, people who are not familiar with Scrcpy may find its command-line configuration daunting.
On the plus side, Scrcpy does not need to be installed on your phone, which lowers security concerns and conserves storage space. It improves with frequent updates because it is open source. Scrcpy is among the greatest free programs for managing your Android phone from a PC, provided you are prepared to overcome its drawbacks.
How you work will determine which tool is ideal for you.
For Windows users seeking a native, hassle-free method of syncing calls, messages, and notifications, Phone Link is my top pick. With file transfers, remote access, and notification mirroring, AirDroid goes above and beyond; however, some premium capabilities are subscription-based.
I have experimented with Scrcpy since I love open source software. Although it offers little lag and high-performance screen mirroring, I find its command-line configuration to be less than ideal. Last but not least, TeamViewer QuickSupport is an option; nevertheless, its limitations in the free edition make it most appropriate for infrequent use.
The most important factors – productivity, ease of use, or complete control – determine which tool is best. Whichever option you select, these options facilitate communication and task completion. It has never been simpler to control your Android phone from your PC. There is a solution that suits your operation, whether you require remote help, sophisticated functionality, or smooth integration.
Is the battery on your smartphone giving you trouble? Is your phone running out of battery or is it no longer charging? You should check your smartphone’s battery immediately, regardless of whether it is a Xiaomi, Samsung, or another brand.
“Why has my smartphone suddenly stopped charging?”
If, like most users, you have an Android smartphone with a non-removable lithium battery, it is hard to answer this question. The repairable Fairphone 5 and older cellphones are among the few that have a detachable battery.
Thankfully, there is a method for assessing the state of the battery in your smartphone so that you can evaluate whether or not to replace it. Discover which of the several options—some of which are also provided directly by the manufacturer – is best for you here.
How to check the battery status on Samsung
Since Samsung’s Galaxy smartphones are the most popular, let us start with them. There are now two ways to check the battery level of your Samsung phone: using the diagnostic feature using the secret code *#0228#. The latter is accessible through the Samsung Members app as well as the settings.
But it appears that the USSD code is no longer functional. We have spoken with Samsung and will keep you informed of developments. Therefore, until further notice, we have deleted the portion about the Samsung code from a previous version of the text.
You can start a variety of diagnostic features with Samsung to see if your smartphone is operating correctly at the hardware level. Twenty-five functions and components are available for testing. from network connectivity and sensors to the battery. There are two ways to use this diagnostic feature, depending on whether One UI 6 or a later version is installed.
Open the Samsung Members app (or install it).
Tap Help in the bottom navigation bar.
Tap on Show tests in the Diagnostics section.
Select Battery status and start the test.
Now you can see your battery’s state, which should be “Good” in the best scenario. Additionally shown is the charging capacity, which should match the details on the data sheet for your smartphone.
Please be aware that the most recent in-house user interface, One UI 6, which is based on Android 14, is now installed on your Samsung Galaxy smartphone. Without utilizing Samsung Members, you can utilize the battery settings to manually invoke this diagnostic feature.
Go to the Settings.
Tap on Device maintenance.
Scroll down to Diagnostics and follow steps 3 and 4 mentioned above.
How to check the battery status on Xiaomi
Sadly, there are not many ways to find out how well your Xiaomi smartphone is doing. Compared to Samsung, these are less diversified. Entering the secret code is your only choice.
Enter the code *#*#6485#*#* on the keyboard of your phone app (native).
Check that MB_06“Good” is displayed.
MB_06 refers to your battery’s current state of health. However, this specific menu contains additional information that might be useful. Since the official sources are once more somewhat dubious, I have compiled a list for you using the information I have discovered in the several Xiaomi forums:
The “MB_” codes:
MB_00 Percent of battery remaining
MB_01 Battery status: charged/discharged
MB_02 Charging protocol (fast, etc.)
MB_03 Voltage of the charging process
MB_04 Voltage used (volts), e.g. 117000 corresponds to 1.17 volts.
MB_05 Temperature of the battery, here 260 corresponds to 26 °C.
MB_06 Health of the battery
MB_07 Temperature of the charger/adapter.
MB_08 Temperature monitoring status
MB_09 Maximum voltage of the battery at full charge.
The “MU_” codes:
MU_00 Type of charger
MU_01 Charging mode
MU_02 Direction of charging: (0: no charging / 2: charging / 3: reverse charging)
MU_03 Maximum input voltage via USB
MU_04 Current input voltage via USB.
The “MF_” codes:
MF_01: Current state of charge. If this value differs from the value under MB_00, this is an indication of a battery problem.
MF_02: Number of charging cycles (charging from 0 to 100 % since first use).
MF_05: Actual capacity of the battery
MF_06: The charging capacity specified by the manufacturer.
The “MM_” codes:
MM_00: AICL result (adaptive input current limitation)
MM_01: USB input current
MM_02: Maximum charging voltage of the charger
MM_03: Current maximum charging capacity. If it differs from the values specified in MF_06 or MF_05 (or in the data sheet), your battery is damaged.
Apps to check the health of your battery
Thus far, we have examined methods that are highly manufacturer-specific and, similar to secret codes, may not be the most obvious. Installing an Android app that lets you monitor the battery level of your phone is the simplest method.
Ampere
When charging your smartphone, Ampere shows the electrical current. This enables you to evaluate various chargers and select the most suitable one for your smartphone. The app also allows you to monitor the rate at which your battery is depleting.
Another option is to look at CPU-Z, which provides details about your smartphone’s battery as well as numerous other components. The build number, processor core speed, temperature, and sensor information are all shown.
I would only suggest the AccuBattery app to those of you who are truly interested in knowing the precise condition of your battery. AccuBattery is not for you if you are only curious because it requires time for the program to measure usage and generate estimations.
AccuBattery’s analysis of your battery performance gets more precise the more you use it. The four tabs of AccuBattery are History, Health, Charging, and Discharging. AccuBattery calculates the charge capacity when you charge your phone. AccuBattery can assess your battery’s state by comparing it to the “official” charge capacity, which you must manually enter.
Like USSD codes, Android secret codes frequently begin with an asterisk. The secret codes can be activated without a network, which is how USSD codes differ from one another. Depending on the version that is loaded on the smartphone, they are kept in system files.
When moving to Android 4.3 Jelly Bean and then Lollipop, many codes become obsolete. Actually, codes are added and removed with every new edition. Not to mention the particular codes for some Android overlays, like MIUI or One UI, which were discussed before in this post.
Please take note that the code ##4636##, which displays an information menu that includes, among other things, your battery status, is compatible with practically all Android devices in addition to the Samsung and Xiaomi codes. However, we tested it on an Asus with Zen UI 9, a Xiaomi with MIUI 13, a OnePlus with OxygenOS 13, and a Samsung with OneUI 6.
