Unlocking Hidden Android Features: A Guide to Notification History
Many Android features remain underutilized primarily because they are not easy to find. However, some clever shortcuts can make these features more accessible. A prime example on Google Pixel devices is the shortcut for notification history, which has quickly become a favorite trick of mine.
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The Convenience of Notification History
A few years back, Android introduced the notification history feature, an incredibly handy tool for users. Accidentally swiped away a notification? Or perhaps it vanished before you had a chance to read it? Notification history allows you to retrieve such notifications with ease.
Unfortunately, some Android manufacturers, like Samsung and OnePlus, tend to hide this feature, making it difficult for users to access. On the brighter side, Google ensures its availability. Once the feature is activated, a “history” shortcut appears at the bottom of your notifications when there are unread alerts.
A Hidden Shortcut for Read Notifications
But what happens when all your notifications are marked as read? Here’s a clever, albeit hidden, trick for Pixel users: tapping on “No notifications” provides instant access to your notification history. This feature is not widely advertised, making it a well-kept secret. When my colleague Kyle shared this tip, it was a revelation. Previously, I would dig through the settings menu after mistakenly clearing notifications. This shortcut saves me both time and effort.
What Android shortcut do you find most useful?
This Week’s Top Stories in the Google Universe
New Launches: Google TV Streamer and Pixel Buds Pro 2
This week, Google introduced two new products. On Tuesday, the Google TV Streamer was officially launched. We’ve been impressed with its enhanced performance and new features, even though it might not be the ultimate streaming powerhouse that some expected.
Google TV Streamer: The New Home Hub
As Damien Wilde notes in our review, the Google TV Streamer represents a significant upgrade from the Chromecast with Google TV. It creates the central hub for smart home services, making the TV the focal point of interaction.
– Review: Google TV Streamer, the ‘big hub’ of your home [Video]
– Remote shortcut functionalities with the Google TV Streamer
– Available in 19 countries
– How Nest Doorbell notifications integrate with Google TV [Video]
– Comparison: Google TV Streamer vs. Nvidia Shield TV
Pixel Buds Pro 2: Enhanced Audio Experience
Simultaneously, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 began shipping, boasting improved hardware and audio quality.
A New Standard in Earbuds
According to Andrew Romero, while priced at $229, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 excel as multifunctional devices for on-the-go or office use. However, they may not be the top choice for pure music listening. The real value lies in the software and the integration with Gemini.
– Review: Pixel Buds Pro 2 are designed for everyday use [Video]
– How Google uses Gemini for improved notifications
– A comparison between Pixel Buds Pro and Pixel Buds Pro 2 [Video]
– Gemini’s rollout to all Pixel Buds
Wear OS 5: A Rocky Start for Pixel Watch
Later in the week, Google released Wear OS 5 for the Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2. Unfortunately, the update was quickly retracted due to numerous issues.
More Noteworthy Updates
– Google TV updates: Home Panel, AI screensaver, Sports page rollout
– Google Maps on Android Auto: Improved lane guidance readability
– Google TV and Android TV OS: Reaching 270 million devices
– YouTube Premium: Price hikes in Europe
– Google Store: New USB-C to HDMI cable for Pixel devices
– Gemini homescreen redesign for Android
– Motorola MA1: Popular wireless Android Auto adapter returns
– Long-term review of Galaxy S24 Ultra [Video]
– Google Maps: Alerts for potentially fake business reviews
– Motorola’s ThinkPhone to make a comeback in 2025
– Meta’s ‘Orion’ AR glasses and $299 Quest 3S unveiled
From the Rest of 9to5
– 9to5Mac: Apple’s ‘HomeAccessory’ with a potential square display and A18 chip for AI
– 9to5Toys: Meta’s budget-friendly Quest 3S VR Headset at $299, pre-order available
– Electrek: New Tesla prototype spotted in camouflage—could it be the new affordable EV?
