Android is not just an operating system, but a real sandbox for experiments. While some users do not go beyond standard applications for years, others turn their devices into multimedia centers, game consoles, or even tools for home automation. And if you think that you know everything about your smartphone, then you are most likely mistaken: under the hood Android hidden are dozens of non-obvious functions that can surprise even experienced geeks.

In this article we have collected 15 of the most unusual and useful tricksthat go beyond basic use. There will be no banal advice here like “install the launcher” or “clear the cache” - only unique tricks that actually work on most modern devices (from Samsung Galaxy to Google Pixel). Are you ready to turn your smartphone into a Swiss Army knife of the digital age? Then let's go!

1. Turn Android into a game console with emulators

Your smartphone is not inferior in power to Nintendo Switch or PlayStation 2, so why not use it to the fullest? Using emulators, you can run games from retro consoles - from NES and SEGA Genesis to PlayStation Portable and Nintendo 64. Moreover, many emulators support multiplayer over a local network, connecting gamepads and even saving to the cloud.

The most popular solutions:

  • 🎮 RetroArch - a universal emulator with support for dozens of systems (including PS1, GameCube and Arcade). emulator
  • 🕹️ Dolphin MMJ — optimized version of the emulator GameCube/Wii for mobile devices. Runs on flagships Super Mario Galaxy at 60 FPS!
  • 📱 AetherSX2 - emulator PlayStation 2 with support for texture upscaling. For a comfortable game, you need a smartphone with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or newer.

To achieve maximum performance, activate in the emulator settings:

  • 🔧 Performance mode in the battery settings (Settings → Battery → Performance mode).
  • 🔌 Disabling FPS limitation (if supported by the device).
  • 🖥️ Using external cooling (for example, a cooler for a smartphone) for long sessions.
⚠️ Attention: Emulators PS2 and GameCube are extremely demanding on hardware. On budget smartphones (for example, Redmi Note 12the games will slow down or not start at all. Before installing, check the compatibility on the developer's website.
📊 Which one. console you would like to emulate on Android?
PlayStation 2
Nintendo 64
Game Boy Advance
SEGA Dreamcast
Other

2. Create a second screen for a PC or laptop

If you have Windows 10/11 or Mac, your Android smartphone can become free second monitor —wireless and with minimal delays. This is convenient for working with documents, streaming, or even playing games (for example, displaying a map on CS2 or inventory on Diablo IV on a separate screen).

The best applications for this tasks:

  • 🖥️ Spacedesk —the most stable solution with support for touch input. Works via Wi-Fi or USB, there is a version for Linux.
  • 🔄 Duet Display —a paid application with minimal latency (ideal for drawing with Photoshop a stylus).
  • 🎮 Moonlight —if you need not just a second screen, but full-fledged game streaming from PC (analogue Steam Link).

To configure Spacedesk (free option):

  1. Download the server part on PC from official site.
  2. Install the application Spacedesk on Android.
  3. Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network.
  4. Run the application on your smartphone - it will automatically find your PC.
⚠️ Attention: When using over Wi-Fi, image delays are possible (latency 30-100 ms). For critical tasks (for example, competitive games), it is better to use a USB connection or Moonlight with game mode.
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If the image on your smartphone is blurry, in the Spacedesk settings on your PC, reduce the resolution of the virtual display to 720p - this will reduce the load and improve ping.

3. Automate your routine with Tasker and Macrodroid

Android allows you to automate almost any action - from sending SMS when the battery is low to automatically turning on Bluetooth when connected to a carYou don’t need root access for this: applications like Tasker or Macrodroid (the latter is easier for beginners).

Examples of useful automations:

  • 📱 Night mode: When connected to charging after 23:00, turn on the dark theme, turn off mobile data and run Sleep as Android.
  • 🚗 Auto mode in the car: When connected to a Bluetooth headset JBL or Pioneer run Google Maps and increase the volume by 30%.
  • 🔋 Saving battery: If the charge drops below 15%, turn off background synchronization, reduce the brightness to 30% and send a notification to Smart Watch.

To create simple automation in Macrodroid:

  1. Open the application and click + Add macro.
  2. Select a trigger (for example Time → Between 22:00 and 7:00).
  3. Add an action (for example, Audio → Set volume → 50%).
  4. Specify a limitation (optional, for example, Only if the screen is off).
Application Difficulty Free version root access
Tasker ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 7-day trial Optional
Macrodroid ⭐⭐ 5 macros No
Automate ⭐⭐⭐ Yes No

Make sure you have enough free memory (minimum 500 MB)

Disable battery optimization for the automation application

Check permissions (access to notifications, location, etc.)

Create a backup copy of your settings (in Tasker: Menu → Data → Backup)-->

4. Use your smartphone as a web server or file storage

Your Android can work as full. web serverhosting static sites, media files or even databases. This is convenient for testing web projects on the go, exchanging files without clouds, or organizing a local network in the country. For example, you can distribute Wi-Fi from your phone and open access to movies for friends.

Methods of organizing a server:

  • 🌐 KSWeb —a lightweight server with support for PHP, MySQL i NginxAllows you to run WordPress or Joomla right on your smartphone!
  • 📁 Servers Ultimate Pro —multi-protocol server (FTP, HTTP, DLNA). You can configure password access and limit download speed.
  • 🔗 Termux + Python —for advanced users Install Termux, then run: 
    pkg install python

    pip install flask
    

    echo "from flask import Flask; app = Flask(__name__); @app.route('/'); def hello(): return 'Hello from Android!'; app.run(host='0.0.0.0', port=8080)" > app.py
    

    python app.py

    After this, your server will be accessible at http://[local_IP]:8080.

To open access to files over the local network:

  1. Install Servers Ultimate Pro.
  2. Select HTTP Server and specify the folder for distribution (for example, /storage/emulated/0/Download).
  3. Activate the server and write down the IP address (for example, 192.168.1.100:8080).
  4. Connect other devices to the same Wi-Fi network and enter the address in the browser.
⚠️ Attention: Distributing files over an open network (for example, in a cafe or airport) is dangerous - anyone can download or replace your data. Always use a password and turn on encryption (HTTPS in KSWeb).

5. Shoot professional video using alternative cameras

The standard camera app on Android often limits the capabilities of the hardware. Specialized applications like Filmic Pro, ProCam X or Open Camera allow you to unlock manual settings (shutter speed, ISO, white balance), shoot in LOG profile for post-processing and even use external microphones.

What you can do with alternative cameras:

  • 🎥 Shooting in RAW: Save raw files for professional color grading in Lightroom.
  • 🔍 Macro photography: Use manual focus to shoot small objects (like insects or jewelry).
  • 🎤 Connecting an external microphone: Via USB-C or Bluetooth (for example, Rode VideoMic).
  • 📽️ Record from several cameras simultaneously (on supported devices, for example, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra).

For shooting in LOG profile (increased dynamic range):

  1. Install Filmic Pro (paid, but there is a 7-day trial).
  2. In the camera settings, select Color Profile → Flat (Log).
  3. Disable automatic exposure and adjust ISO/shutter speed manually.
  4. For color correction, use LUT profiles in Premiere Pro or CapCut.
How to make a video for TikTok with a "cinema" effect

1. In Open Camera, set the resolution to 1080p and the bitrate to 50 Mbps.

2. Activate stabilization (if you have OIS/EIS).

3. 60 FPS for smooth slowdown.

4. In CapCut, apply the "Cinematic" filter and add background blur (the "Bokeh" effect).

6. Run full-fledged Linux on your smartphone

Yes, you heard right: you can install it on Android full Linux (Ubuntu, Debian, Kali) and use it for programming, hacking experiments, or even as a server. You don't need root for this - just an application Termux and a little patience.

Linux launch options:

  • 🐧 Termux + proot-distro: Lightweight method with emulation of the root file system. Suitable for launching Python, Node.js or nginx.
  • 🖥️ UserLAnd: Ready-made images of Ubuntu, Debian, Arch Linux with a graphical interface via VNC.
  • 🔧 Andronix: Optimized for working with Kali Linux (popular among ethical hackers).

Installation instructions Ubuntu in Termux:

pkg update && pkg upgrade

pkg install wget proot-distro


proot-distro install ubuntu


proot-distro login ubuntu


After logging in, update the packages:


apt update && apt upgrade -y

What you can do in Linux on Android:

  • 💻 Develop on Python, C++ or Go.
  • 🕵️‍♂️ Test networks using nmap, wireshark.
  • 🌍 Host WordPress or Nextcloud (if you have an external drive).
⚠️ Attention: Some actions in Kali Linux (for example, scanning other people's networks) may violate local laws. Use only for legal purposes (testing your devices).
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Linux on Android will not replace a full-fledged PC, but is great for learning programming or server administration. on the go.

7. Turn your smartphone into a streaming device (like OBS)

If you stream on Twitch, YouTube or TikTok Live, your Android can become portable streaming station. data-i="224">or Streamlabs Mobile or Larix Broadcaster you can broadcast the screen, camera and microphone with overlays of overlays, donation alerts and even chromakey (green screen).

What mobile streaming applications can do:

  • 🎮 Gameplay broadcast from emulators or cloud services (Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce NOW).
  • 📹 Multi-camera: Simultaneous use of the front and main cameras (for example, for reactions).
  • 🎨 Overlays and widgets: Stream timer, number of viewers, recent donations.
  • 🔊 Connecting an external microphone via USB-C or Bluetooth.

To set up a stream in Larix Broadcaster:

  1. Download the application and allow access to the camera/microphone.
  2. In the settings, select RTMP server and enter data from your platform (for example, for Twitch: rtmp://live.twitch.tv/app/[your_key]).
  3. Adjust the bitrate: enough for 720p 2500 Kbps, for 1080p - 4500 Kbps.
  4. Add an overlay via Settings → Overlay → Upload image.
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For better sound, connect an external microphone (for example, Boya BY-M1 for 1500₽) via a USB-C adapter. This will greatly improve the quality of the stream compared to the built-in microphone.

8. Turn Android into a remote control for a smart home

Your smartphone can be universal remote control to control your TV, air conditioner, lighting, and even a robot vacuum cleaner. expensive hubs - enough applications with support Infrared port (IR) or smart home protocols (Zigbee, Wi-Fi).

Methods of controlling equipment:

  • 📺 IR remote control: Applications like ZaZa Remote or SURE Universal emulate signals from remote controls LG, Samsung, Xiaomi etc. Works on smartphones with an IR port (for example, Redmi Note 11, Galaxy S22 Ultra).
  • 💡 Smart Home: Google Home or Yandex Alice control light bulbs Yeelight, sockets TP-Link and thermostats Nest.
  • 🤖 Voice control: Configure Google Assistant to execute commands like "OK Google, turn on movie mode" (start Kodi + dimming the light).

How to set up an IR remote control ZaZa Remote:

  1. Install the application and allow access to the IR port.
  2. Select the device type (for example, TV → Samsung).
  3. Point your smartphone at the equipment and test the buttons.
  4. Save the profile for quick access.
⚠️ Attention: Not all smartphones support an IR blaster. Before purchasing, check the specifications of the model (look for “Infrared port” in the specifications).
Can these chips be used on older smartphones (for example, Android) 7-8)?

Most of the tricks from the article work on Android 9+, but some (for example, emulators NES/SEGA or Termux) also support older versions. The main limitation is performance: on weak processors (for example, Snapdragon 4xx) there may be lags. Before installation, check the application requirements in Google Play.

Do you need root access for these features?

In 90% of cases - no! Root may only be needed for deep customization (for example, changing system fonts or deleting pre-installed applications). root access, with the exception of some advanced functions in Tasker (for example, changing DNS at the system level).

How do these tricks affect the battery and performance?

Any background processes (servers, emulators, streaming) increase the load on the processor and reduce battery life. Recommendations:

  • Use performance mode in the battery settings for critical applications.
  • Connect your smartphone to charge during long-term loads (for example, during emulation PS2).
  • Close unnecessary applications through Settings → Applications → Background activity.
Is it possible to make money on these chips?

Yes! Some tricks can be monetized:

  • 💰 Streaming: Broadcasting games with emulators or reviews of retro consoles on Twitch/YouTube.
  • 📈 Automation: Sale of ready-made Taskerprofiles for business tasks (for example, an answering machine for WhatsApp).
  • 🛠️ Smart Home: Setting up automation systems for clients (remotely via TeamViewer).

The main thing is not to violate the rules of the platforms (for example, Twitch prohibits streaming of pirated games).

Which smartphones are best suited for these experiments?

For most features, an average smartphone is enough (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro or Samsung Galaxy A54). But for resource-intensive tasks (emulation PS2, Linux, streaming in 1080p), we recommend flagships:

  • Google Pixel 7 Pro —the best optimization for Termux and emulators.
  • Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra - powerful processor and support DeX (desktop mode).
  • ASUS ROG Phone 6 - specially tailored for gaming (external cooling, triggers).