The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Enable and Use One-Handed Mode on Android

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
Android 15 - Google Pixel 9
You will need
Android device running Android 12 or higher

Step by step

  1. 45 sec

    Open the Settings menu

    Unlock your device and navigate to the Settings app from your home screen or app drawer. Scroll down to select System.

  2. 30 sec

    Locate Gestures settings

    Within the System menu, tap on Gestures. This menu contains your primary navigation settings including One-Handed Mode.

  3. 30 sec

    Enable One-Handed Mode

    Tap on One-Handed Mode to open its specific settings. Toggle the Use One-Handed Mode switch to the On position.

  4. 30 sec

    Set exit preferences

    Select Exit when switching apps if you prefer the screen to revert to full size automatically. Enable Timeout if you want the screen to revert after a set period of inactivity.

    Note: A 12-second timeout is recommended for casual use.
  5. 15 sec

    Activate the mode

    To trigger the mode, swipe down on the bottom edge of your screen. The top half of your interface will slide down into reach.

  6. 15 sec

    Exit the mode

    To return to full-screen view, either swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen or tap the empty space above the active interface area.