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| How to Enable Hidden Developer Options on Android |
Introduction
Did you know that your Android smartphone has a secret menu filled with powerful settings? The Developer Options menu is hidden by default but can be easily activated to unlock a world of advanced features. Whether you want to speed up animations, enable USB debugging, or test hidden functionalities, the Developer Options menu is a must-know trick for tech enthusiasts.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the simple steps to enable hidden Developer Options on Android and explore some of the best features you can use to optimize your device.
What Are Developer Options on Android?
Developer Options is a hidden menu in Android that provides advanced settings primarily meant for app developers. However, regular users can also benefit from these options, such as:
- Speeding up animations to make the device feel faster
- Enabling USB debugging for connecting your phone to a computer
- Forcing 90Hz/120Hz refresh rate for smoother performance
- Mocking GPS location for privacy or testing apps
By unlocking these options, you gain more control over your Android experience.
Why Are Developer Options Hidden?
Google hides Developer Options to prevent casual users from accidentally changing settings that could affect the device’s performance. While enabling it is safe, changing some settings without understanding them could lead to unexpected behavior. But don’t worry! We’ll guide you on how to safely enable and use them.
How to Enable Hidden Developer Options on Android
Activating Developer Options on an Android device is quick and easy. Just follow these steps:
Step 1: Open Settings
- Unlock your Android phone.
- Go to the Settings app (gear icon).
Step 2: Navigate to 'About Phone'
- Scroll down and tap on About phone.
- If you're using a Samsung, Xiaomi, or other brand, it might be inside System or About device.
Step 3: Locate the 'Build Number'
- In About Phone, find the Build Number option.
- On some devices, it may be inside Software Information or Version Information.
Step 4: Tap Build Number 7 Times
- Tap the Build Number seven times in a row.
- After a few taps, you'll see a message: "You are X steps away from becoming a developer."
- Keep tapping until you see "You are now a developer!"
Step 5: Enter Your PIN or Password
- If prompted, enter your phone’s PIN, password, or pattern to confirm.
Step 6: Developer Options Unlocked!
- Go back to the main Settings menu.
- Scroll down and tap on System > Developer Options.
Congratulations! 🎉 You’ve now unlocked Developer Options on your Android phone!
How to Use Developer Options on Android
Now that you've unlocked Developer Options, here are some cool settings you can enable:
1. Speed Up Your Phone’s Performance
- Go to Settings > System > Developer Options
- Scroll to Window Animation Scale, Transition Animation Scale, and Animator Duration Scale
- Set all three options to 0.5x or turn them off to make your phone feel much faster.
2. Enable USB Debugging
- USB Debugging allows your Android phone to communicate with a computer for app development, rooting, or debugging.
- Go to Developer Options > Enable USB Debugging
- Confirm the prompt.
3. Fake Your GPS Location
- This is useful for testing apps or privacy reasons.
- Install a GPS spoofing app from the Play Store.
- Enable Mock Locations in Developer Options.
- Set your fake location in the spoofing app.
4. Force 90Hz/120Hz Refresh Rate
- Some Android phones can switch between 60Hz and 90Hz/120Hz for battery savings.
- Go to Developer Options > Force 90Hz/120Hz Refresh Rate for smoother animations.
5. Stay Awake While Charging
- If you want your phone screen to stay on while plugged in:
- Go to Developer Options > Stay Awake and enable it.
6. Show Touches and Pointer Location
- Great for creating tutorials or debugging touch issues.
- Enable Show Touches to display a dot when you touch the screen.
- Enable Pointer Location to show precise touch coordinates.
7. Limit Background Processes
- If your phone lags, you can limit apps running in the background.
- Go to Developer Options > Background Process Limit and choose "At most 2 processes" for better performance.
How to Disable Developer Options
If you ever want to hide Developer Options again, here’s how:
- Go to Settings > Developer Options
- Toggle it OFF
- Alternatively, reset all settings under System > Reset Options (this won’t delete your data).
Is Enabling Developer Options Safe?
Yes! Simply enabling Developer Options does not harm your phone. However, changing certain settings without knowing their effects can cause problems like:
- Battery drain (if you force high refresh rates)
- Performance issues (if you change background process limits)
- Security risks (if USB debugging is left ON)
As long as you stick to safe options, there's nothing to worry about!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I enable Developer Options on Samsung phones?
- The steps are the same. Settings > About Phone > Software Information > Tap Build Number 7 times.
Will enabling Developer Options void my warranty?
- No! Developer Options do not void your warranty. Rooting or unlocking the bootloader might.
Can I disable Developer Options after enabling them?
- Yes! Simply toggle it OFF in settings or reset all system settings.
Why is my Build Number missing?
- Some brands hide it under Software Information or Version Information.
Is it safe to enable USB Debugging?
- Yes, but disable it after use to avoid security risks.
Final Thoughts
Unlocking Developer Options on Android gives you access to hidden settings that can boost performance, improve battery life, and enhance usability. Whether you’re a developer or just a curious Android user, these features can take your phone experience to the next level.
Try it out today and enjoy the full power of your Android device! 🚀

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