One of the standout enhancements introduced to Android phones in 2026 is a significantly refined device setup process. While the setup may still require some time, users often find themselves wanting to make additional adjustments before fully immersing in their new device experience. The range of options available for customization is vast, allowing for a more personalized touch right from the start. For instance, those transitioning from older Android models may discover hidden settings that can revitalize performance, making even new devices feel more responsive.
Beyond performance tweaks, many users may wish to declutter their home screens by removing pre-installed apps and bloatware, paving the way for a more streamlined experience. The aesthetic appeal of a device can also be enhanced through the use of launchers, themes, and wallpapers. The beauty of Android lies in its extensive customization capabilities, applicable across various brands, including Google Pixel, Samsung, Motorola, and others. Before diving into the new operating system and its features, several settings warrant attention for optimal use.
1. Turn off adaptive brightness or set a lower baseline
Adaptive brightness is a feature typically activated on new Android devices, utilizing built-in sensors to adjust screen brightness based on ambient light. While this feature aims to enhance visibility and conserve battery life, it can sometimes lead to unexpected results, such as draining the battery faster than manual adjustments. To disable this setting, users must first enable Developer Mode, then navigate to Settings > Display and toggle off Adaptive Brightness. Alternatively, adjusting the baseline brightness slider can provide a more tailored experience.
2. Increase (or reduce) the screen timeout
The screen timeout feature automatically turns off the display after a period of inactivity, conserving battery life. However, the default setting of 30 seconds may be too brief for users engaged in reading or other activities. Adjusting this setting to one or two minutes can enhance usability. To modify the screen timeout, go to Settings > Display > Screen Timeout and select a duration that suits your needs. Some devices, like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, offer an option to keep the screen active while the user is looking at it, adding another layer of convenience.
3. Enable screen pinning for better security
When sharing your phone with someone, you may not want to grant unrestricted access to your entire device. The screen pinning feature allows users to lock the current app or window, preventing others from navigating away from it. To enable screen pinning, head to Settings > Security and toggle on Allow apps to be pinned. To pin an app, open the recent apps overview and select the pin option from the app’s icon. For added security, users can require a PIN or password to unpin the app.
4. Turn on the SIM card lock
While many users take precautions to secure their phones, the SIM card often goes overlooked. Locking the SIM card adds an extra layer of protection, preventing unauthorized use if the card is removed from the device. To enable this feature, navigate to Settings > Security > SIM card lock and follow the prompts to set a security PIN. This ensures that the SIM card remains secure, requiring the PIN upon each restart of the device.
Some other things to do before using your new phone
In addition to adjusting settings, there are several other steps to consider for a seamless transition to your new phone. First, enabling the Find My Device service is crucial for locating your phone if misplaced. This can be done through Security and Privacy in the device settings. After syncing with your Google account, users can access the Google Find My Hub from any browser.
Customizing the quick settings tray is also advisable. This pull-down menu provides access to essential settings like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Users can edit this tray by swiping down from the top and selecting the Edit icon, allowing for a more personalized setup. Furthermore, consider installing a new keyboard, such as Gboard, and a messaging app like Google Messages if not already present. Adding home screen widgets can also enhance the user experience.
For those concerned about privacy, switching to a privacy-focused browser like Firefox or Brave can be beneficial. Lastly, if your device has more than 8GB of RAM, disabling RAM Plus or swap space may improve performance, as this feature uses internal storage as temporary memory, potentially slowing down the device.
