This article dives into Developer Mode on Android and explains how to actually enable it on your device. You might need to do this if your device’s factory defaults are stupid (like on my 2 last OnePlus phones), you need to debug an app on your phone or achieve some other somewhat advanced scenario.
Background
Enabling developer mode on Android is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to understand what you’re getting into. By activating it, you’re granting yourself access to a whole range of advanced options, including tweaking system settings, debugging apps, and even installing custom ROMs. With these settings – and additional exposure to security risks that come with them – you’re taking more responsibility of your device’s wellbeing. So don’t do anything stupid.
With that said, let’s get started!
Time needed: 10 minutes
How to enable Developer Mode on Android?
- Find Your Device’s Build Number
Before you can activate developer mode, you need to know where to find the build number of your Android device. The build number is a unique identifier that distinguishes your device’s firmware from others in the same model. You don’t actually need the number itself for anything, but we need to locate it.
To find your device’s build number, go to Settings > About Phone (or About Tablet) > Software Information > Build Number. - Tap the Build Number 7 times to unlock Developer mode
Tap on the build number seven times repeatedly until you see a notification that says “You are now a developer!”
- Enable Developer Options
Once you’ve unlocked the developer mode, you’ll see a new option called “Developer options” under Settings. Tap on it, and voila! You’re now in developer mode.
- Thread with Caution
Remember, developer mode grants you access to powerful tools and options that can potentially harm your device if used incorrectly. Make sure you only enable options that you understand and have a legitimate reason for using.
See below for a few different scenarios on what to do with the Developer mode!
Now that you’re in developer mode, it’s time to check out what’s available to you. Here are some of the most useful options you might want to enable:
USB Debugging – This option allows you to connect your Android device to a computer and run debugging tools, such as Android Studio or ADB.
OEM Unlocking – This option unlocks the bootloader, allowing you to flash custom firmware, such as custom ROMs or recovery images.
Stay Awake – This option keeps your device screen on while charging.
Show Touches – This option displays a visual cue when you touch the screen, which can be useful when recording screencasts or creating tutorials.
Window Animation Scale, Transition Animation Scale, and Animator Duration Scale – These options adjust the animation speed when opening and closing apps, scrolling through menus, and other interface animations.
… and so much more!
In conclusion, enabling developer mode on Android is a simple process that can greatly enhance your device’s functionality. However, it’s essential to proceed with caution and only enable options that you understand and have a legitimate reason for using. So go forth, explore the depths of your Android device, and have fun!
He's been a developer from 2004 (starting with PHP and Java), and he's been working on .NET projects, Azure, Office 365, SharePoint and a lot of other stuff. He's also Microsoft MVP for Azure.
This is his personal professional (e.g. professional, but definitely personal) blog.
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