Enable developer options on Android: Here's how

On Android, you can activate the developer options to unlock certain functions on your smartphone. Read how it works in our practical tip.

Instructions: How to enable developer options on Android

Activating the developer options works on Android smartphones in the settings. However, they cannot be activated as usual with a tick or a controller.

1. Open the settings on your Android.
2. Depending on the Android version, you can now switch to the "System" or "Options" menu.
3. Now tap on "Via phone". On some smartphones, the sub-item is also called "phone info" or "device information".
4. Find the entry "Build number" here.
5. Now tap the build number seven times in a row.
6. Then the message "You are now a developer!" and you've successfully enabled developer options.
7. In the settings under "System" you will now find the new menu "Developer Options".

What are the developer options?

The developer options on Android unlock various options that are usually only of interest to experienced users. Above all, they are actually suitable for developers who, for example, create their own app.

• The developer options are required, for example, to use USB debugging.
• You also benefit from an extended restart menu, which you can use to boot into the recovery system, for example.
• However, the developer options are not recommended for laymen: Some functions can make the smartphone unusable if they are used incorrectly.

Disable developer options

If desired, the developer options can also be deactivated again. On some smartphones you will find a controller for this in the "Developer options" menu. If this does not exist, proceed as follows:

1. Open the setting on your smartphone.
2. Switch to "Apps" in the "Device" area. For some manufacturers, this menu is also called "App Manager" or "Application Manager".
3. Find "Settings" in the installed apps and tap on the entry.
4. Now tap the "Storage"> "Clear data" button - don't worry, the settings on your smartphone will remain. If you want to be on the safe side, you can also create a backup beforehand.
5. Confirm the "Delete data" display with "OK". Then the developer options are deactivated under Android.