Create shortcuts on Android Home screen is one of the most useful features offered by the operating system. With this tool, you can customize your home screen to quickly access apps, settings, contacts, and more. Although at first glance it may seem like a simple feature, it can transform the way you use your phone if you set it up right. So, if you don't use them, read on to learn more. We show you all the possible ways to create shortcuts on Android to have everything at your fingertips.
Application shortcuts
One of the most common ways to create shortcuts on Android is for the apps you use most. The process is very simple and is practically the same on all devices:
- Search and select the enforcement that you want to place on the home screen.
- Long press the icon until you see a pop-up menu.
- Select the option add to home screen or drag the icon to the desired position.
This method is the most commonly used by users, as it allows you to quickly access your favorite apps without having to search for them in the app drawer.
Shortcuts to web pages
If you frequently visit a website and want to have quick access to it from your home screen, you can easily create a shortcut. The best part is that you don't need any additional app, just your browser.
From Google Chrome, follow these steps:
- Go to the web page What do you want to add?
- Touch the three vertical points in the upper right corner to open the menu.
- Select option Add to home screen.
- Change the name of the shortcut if you wish and press OK.
This trick is ideal for adding shortcuts to websites you visit frequently, such as blogs, news sites, or social networks.
Shortcuts to Google Drive files or folders
Another option that Android offers is the ability to create shortcuts to files without having to download folders from Google Drive. This is especially useful if you work with important documents or if you have a folder that you consult frequently.
To do so, follow these steps:
- Open the Google Drive app.
- Find the file or folder you want to add.
- Long press on the file or folder and select the option Add to home screen.
From now on, you'll have a shortcut to that file on your home screen for faster access without having to open the Google Drive app every time.
WhatsApp Contacts and Chats
Android also makes it easy to create shortcuts for your most frequently used contacts or WhatsApp conversations. If you talk to someone frequently, this is a feature that can save you a lot of time.
Contacts
To create a shortcut to a contact, follow this procedure:
- Open the app Contacts on your phone.
- Find the contact you want to quickly access.
- Tap the three dots in the top right corner and select Add to home screen.
This way, you can call or message that person with just one tap from your home screen.
WhatsApp chats
WhatsApp also offers the feature of creating shortcuts to chats, both individual and group. To do so:
- Opens WhatsApp and select the chat you want to have on the home screen.
- Tap the three dots at the top right.
- Choose the option Add shortcut.
- Confirm the process and you will now have the live chat on your home screen.
With this access you can start the conversation without having to open the app and search for the chat.
Shortcuts to system settings
Android allows you to create shortcuts to certain system settings, which is very useful if you want to quickly access options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or screen brightness.
The process usually involves the widgets integrated into the system. Here we show you how to do it:
- Press and hold on an empty space on the home screen.
- Choose Widgets and look for those of Settings.
- Drag the widget to your home screen and select the specific settings you want to link.
Depending on your customization layer, you may have more options. For example, some brands allow you to create shortcuts to very specific settings such as airplane mode or data usage.
Applications to create custom shortcuts
If Android's native options aren't enough for you or you're looking for more customization, you can turn to special applications that allow you to create shortcuts to virtually any function or file on your phone.
Shorty
One of the most popular apps for creating custom shortcuts is ShortyBy simply installing it from Google Play, you can add shortcuts to photos, documents, and any type of file you need. It works through the Android share menu, making it very easy to use.
Shortcut maker
Alternatively Shortcut maker, which in addition to allowing you to create shortcuts, is highly customizable. You can change the icon layout, colors, and add specific functions such as controlling Bluetooth from the shortcut button you have created.
Both apps are free and support almost all Android devices, so you can try them out and decide which one best suits your style and needs.
How to remove shortcuts
If at any time you no longer need a shortcut, removing it is very easy. Just long press the icon on the home screen and drag it to the trash or the delete option that appears at the top of the screen.
It is important to mention that delete a shortcut does not delete the application or file it is linked to. You simply remove the shortcut, but the original content will still be available in the app drawer., folders or in your storage. This way, you can Keep your home screen organized and free of unnecessary icons.
With all the options we've mentioned so far, creating and customizing shortcuts on Android is a fantastic way to adapt your mobile to your daily needsIf something is inconvenient for you or you want to simplify the use of your smartphone, shortcuts can save you valuable time and give you a much smoother experience.
