I had no idea Android's navigation buttons could do all this

I had no idea Android's navigation buttons could do all this Pankil Shah / MakeUseOf By  Afam Onyimadu Published May 29, 2026, 3:30 PM EDT Afam's experience in tech publishing dates back to 2018, when he worked for Make Tech Easier. Over the years, he has built a reputation for publishing high-quality guides, reviews, tips, and explainer articles, covering Windows, Linux, and open source tools. His work has been featured on top websites, including Technical Ustad, Windows Report, Guiding Tech, Alphr, and Next of Windows. He holds a first degree in Computer Science and is a strong advocate for data privacy and security, with several tips, videos, and tutorials on the subject published on the Fuzo Tech YouTube channel. When he is not working, he loves to spend time with his family, cycling, or tending to his garden. Sign in to your MakeUseOf account Add Us On Summary Generate a summary of this story follow Follow followed Followed Like Like Thread Log in Here is a fact-based summary of the story contents: Try something different: Show me the facts Explain it like I’m 5 Give me a lighthearted recap If you use an Android phone, you probably tap the same three icons at the bottom of the screen . The triangle takes you back; the square shows your open apps; and the circle takes you to the home screen. This is the mindless way you’re accustomed to. Those three buttons are far more functional than you've ever imagined. The standard navigation only scratched the surface. I transformed them from the boring navigation options you know into a powerhouse command center. I configured these on my Samsung Galaxy A72 running One UI, but the underlying mechanics are universally built into Android. The instant app switcher Double-tap the square Afam Onyimadu / MUO Typically, when I tap the Recents button, I wait for the animation to appear, then scroll through the cards to find the app I need. However, within that same button is a faster shortcut I had not noticed. Double-tapping