We are used to not parting with our smartphones throughout the day until we go to bed. Many can even spend the whole night reading books on their phone or tablet, so scientists who have always sounded the alarm about spending too much time on a computer or phone screen recommend at least always setting the image brightness to a comfortable level to reduce eye fatigue.
Of course, in Android there is a built-in brightness control, which also supports automatic change according to the light sensor. But it suffers not only from an almost complete lack of settings, but also from the fact that manufacturers often overestimate the minimum brightness of the device screen. We all at least once faced with the fact that the screen light hurts the eyes even with the minimum brightness level in the settings, but did not know how to reduce the screen brightness - standard settings Android does not allow this.
But today we will open for you some useful applications that will increase the convenience and provide the flexibility to control the brightness of the screen of a tablet or smartphone on Android based: Lux LIte, Twilight, Velis and Backlight Widget.
Lux Lite
most convenient and quick app, which performs the same function as the native brightness control for Android, but at the same time gives you control and customization options, for example:
- changing the brightness at the time of unlocking the screen, at any time, at the specified clock- optional,
- a convenient widget in the "shutter" that allows you to quickly change profiles and adjust the current brightness with an accuracy of 5%,
- the ability to reduce the screen brightness below the standard minimum value,
- control the color temperature of the screen (this is necessary to interact with human circadian rhythms, which we will discuss below),
- and much more.
All features can be used in free version, but to automate the inclusion of some of them - only in full.
Twilight
This application from the well-known developers Urbandroid Team (they, for example, released the best alarm clock for Android) reduces the negative impact of the glowing screens of mobile devices on human sleep.
The fact is that a person has such a physiological feature as circadian rhythms. Scientists in numerous studies have found that prolonged exposure to the light of cold shades (blue, blue) or its observation upsets the biological daily regimen, leading to problems with falling asleep. Therefore, like computer program f.lux, Twilight softens the screen light of mobile devices, gradually turning them into red-orange hues in the evening and at night. If you correctly specify your geographic location at startup, the filter will automatically work based on the sunset time data.
Velis Auto Brightness
Velis Works offers to completely replace the standard settings of the Android OS with its application, which at first glance looks like an aircraft control cockpit - there are so many different options in it. But if you carefully walk through them, you will have in your hands an excellent means of controlling the brightness of the screen at any time and under any conditions.
This application not only supports brightness profiles, but also knows how not to change it when exception applications are active. In addition, it integrates with Locale and Tasker, which are popular automation tools among Android users.
Backlight! Widget
speed up control brightness can be done with a simple Backlight widget! on the desktop, which compares favorably with the standard one in that you can adjust the brightness level you need for each switch position.
Regardless of which of these applications you find most convenient and useful, do not neglect the importance of a comfortable screen brightness. mobile phone if you spend a lot of time with him.
And interesting features hidden from prying eyes.
Why are they hidden? Firstly, so that an inexperienced user does not break anything, and secondly, they are needed in especially rare cases and are not used regularly. Today we will talk about the engineering menu - a section for programmers, testers, geeks, experienced users and those who want to get into the very "heart" of the gadget's settings.
What is the engineering menu?
This is about special program or system partition, which developers usually use at the final stage of configuring the software platform mobile device. With its help, they make the latest changes to the operation of the device, check the functioning of various sensors and perform testing of system components. Also hidden functionality service menu used to get a large number system information, conducting various tests (about 25 pieces) and setting up any Android parameters - various sensors, mobile networks, equipment, etc.
Engineering, service or system menu available on smartphones and tablets powered by MediaTek processor. On the Qualcomm chipset, it is either cut down or absent altogether.
Attention! This section is intended for advanced users who are fully responsible for the consequences. Careless actions can be harmful file system and bring the smartphone out of order.
How to enter the engineering menu?
To enter the engineering menu, you need to enter a special command in the dialing application: *#*#3646633#*#*. On some versions, the code *#*#4636#*#* or *#15963#* may work.
If the engineering menu code on Android did not work, or there is no dialing application on the phone (relevant for tablets that do not support calls), the MobileUncle Tools or MTK Engineering applications will help, which can be downloaded for free through Google Play.
After entering the command or launching the application, the desired section will open. Perhaps it will immediately close - you need to have "Developer Mode" activated on your smartphone. To do this, go to the gadget settings, find the kernel version there and quickly click on it 5-10 times in a row.
Engineering menu functions
The engineering menu is divided into several categories, each of which will be discussed separately.
- Telephony. Here are all settings related to mobile communications. For example, you can activate or deactivate certain BandModes (frequencies for 2G / 3G / 4G operation), check the operation of SIM cards, and even turn off mobile data transmission in the background.
- Connectivity: Configure Bluetooth, radio, Wi-Fi, and Wi-Fi CTIA settings. For example, in the radio settings, you can specify the radio wave, the type of antenna (you need to use headphones) and the sound format (mono or stereo). The radio will play directly from this section.
- Hardware Testing. In this section, you can configure the operation of various components of the device, in simple terms, hardware: headphone and speaker sound levels, microphone sensitivity setting, various camera parameters (photo aspect ratio, ISO, HDR, focus adjustment and much more), touchscreen operation, sensors (calibration right there) and so on. This category is very large and global, in each section you need to understand separately and have serious knowledge and skills.
- Location (Location). In this category, you can configure the GPS operation, see how many satellites the gadget has caught, and simply conduct tests.
- Log and debugging (Log and Debugging). Here, logs (logs) of the battery (charge percentage, voltage, operating time, temperature) and other little-known simple user functions.
- Others. It contains two functions that are also unknown to the average user.
Engineering menu settings
The engineering menu opens up huge opportunities for setting up the phone, we will consider the most interesting ones in detail.
- SAR Test - determination of the level of harmful radiation from a smartphone or tablet.
- Connections - testing available types wireless connection A: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, WLAN CTIA and FM receiver.
- Audio - control the sound in the speakers, microphone and headphones. About how to enlarge android volume through the engineering menu, .
- Camera - Set up various camera settings.
- Turning on the current camera - the indicator of the working current of the camera is displayed (in our tablet it is 2 mA).
- CPU stress test ( CPU) - checking the stability of its operation, identifying errors in the operation of the processor-memory channel, testing the cooling system and power supply of the processor.
- Device Manager - Activate SMS auto-registration, manage configuration settings.
- Disable detection - setting the frequency of the signal.
- Display - Sets the Pulse Width Modulation rate cycle, which affects the perceived brightness of the screen by quickly turning the backlight on/off; backlight setting; controller behind the vertical and horizontal lines of the display.
- Wake mode - activating it will not allow the device to "go" into sleep mode.
- IO - control of data input/output operations.
- Memory - detailed information about the RAM module.
- To the degree - detailed information about the battery (the strange name of the section is most likely due to errors in the automatic translation of names in the application, but the ability to switch to English language missing).
- SD card test - the name of the tab speaks for itself.
- Touch screen - test the sensitivity and reaction of the display when pressed, as well as set its additional settings.
- USB - testing the operation of the USB port.
- UART/USB switch - switching between two modes of data transfer.
- Sensor - calibration (setting clarity and sensitivity) touch screen. Standard Methods.
- Location - Test GPS performance and determine the exact location.
- Battery Log - details information about the battery and the ability to activate the recording of information about the battery consumption.
- MTKLogger - collection of system logs (MobileLog, ModemLog and NetworkLog).
- Temperature gauge - shows the battery and processor.
- Parameter font - change the font size.
When installing the application, some features may not be available without .
Xiaomi engineering menu
Despite the fact that our test Redmi 2 runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor, it also has the functionality we are interested in. To enter it, you need to tap on the "Kernel version" item several times in a row.
The menu is represented by five items:
- automatic test. Automatic test of all device parameters.
- Single Item Test. Each of the 25 tests is taken separately. We will discuss this in detail below.
- test report. Report on the passed texts and their results.
- SW add HW version. Information about the version of the smartphone, IMEI and other numbers.
- deviceview. Smartphone hardware data.
Of course, the most interesting point is the Single Item Test, where you can pass a huge number of tests.
Let's make a reservation right away that in the device we tested it was not possible to configure something - only a performance check. At the end of each procedure, its status should be noted: successful (success) or not (failed).
- Key - operability of physical buttons. It is interesting that it was not possible to pass it successfully, because when checking the power button, the smartphone goes out.
- Backlight - display brightness.
- touch panel. The touch screen test includes two procedures: "Crossed calibration" and "Touch panel calibration". The first checks the so-called "swipes", the second - single taps on the screen. An easy way to calibrate your display.
- TFlash. Testing a memory card with two results: either everything is in order, or the card is damaged.
- bluetooth. It searches for available devices.
- SIM card. SIM card test.
- vibration. The gadget vibrates - everything is ok.
- RTC (Real Time Clock) - operation of the built-in clock.
- Speaker. Conversational speaker testing. How to pass it, we did not understand. We will be grateful if you tell us in the comments.
- Receiver. It is translated as a receiver, recipient, but music plays during testing.
- Headset. Testing the 3.5mm jack for headphone detection, audio playback, and support for headset control buttons.
- LED. Notification indicator, everything is obvious here.
- FM (radio). We press the search for a wave (Search), and if noise is heard in the headphones, then everything is working properly.
- camera. Everything is obvious: a test of the main and front optics, as well as a flash.
- battery. An informative section with information about the correct operation of the USB cable (charging), battery status, its charge level and temperature. Similar data can be obtained more.
- WiFi. Detection of nearby access points. There are no settings.
- Torch (flashlight): shines / does not shine.
- The loopback test includes a speaking microphone test. First, click Recording (record), then Playing (playback).
- LCD. Screen colors.
- GPS. Finding available satellites.
- Gyro (gyroscope). Three parameters - X, Y, Z - change depending on the position of the device in space.
- G-sensor (Accelerometer). Twist the gadget in all planes and turn it over. Three parameters should take values ok.
- Proximity Sensor (proximity sensor). It is usually located near the speaker and is designed to turn off the screen of the gadget during a conversation, thereby eliminating accidental clicks.
- Optical and Magnetic Sensor (optical and magnetic sensors) - items that are incomprehensible to us, share your knowledge in the comments.
After passing all the tests, you can go to the Test Report section. As you can see, our "animal" is in great shape and passed all the tests, which is very pleasing.
conclusions
Above, we have listed the main sections of the engineering menu available on the tested devices. Now let's summarize what features the user gets during installation:
- Formatting, resetting to factory settings.
- Testing the operation of individual elements of a smartphone or tablet, for example, sensors, sensitivity touch screen and calibration accuracy.
- Detailed information about the device and its parts. For example, you can track the battery consumption since the last charge and view the statistics of the programs used.
- Energy optimization. As an option, unnecessary frequency ranges are turned off. In Russia, the standard indicators for working in 2G and 3G networks are 900 and 1800 MHz, while in the USA - 850 and 1900 MHz.
It often happens that even the minimum brightness level of a mobile phone or tablet screen is too bright for comfortable use of the device. This situation can occur when you want to save battery power or, while in total darkness, want to lower the display brightness below the minimum available through the settings.
After buying a phone, the owner, as a rule, strives to make it as convenient as possible for himself. Some purchase various mobile devices and accessories for their gadget, others focus their efforts in the field of software settings and customization. Today we will consider the question: How to lower the display brightness below the minimum.
There are several ways to reduce the brightness of the display Android devices, lower than the default minimum brightness level. We invite you to consider three best apps, which allow you to do this, regardless of whether your device is rooted or not.
1.Screen Filter
With over a million downloads, Screen Filter by developer Brett Slatkir is something of a classic, and for good reason. The application does not have any additional features or settings than needed, which means it's pretty easy to use.
Install Screen Filter for free from the Google Play Store. After installation, the icon on home screen will act as a switch, automatically dimming the display when tapped. To access settings, drag down your notifications panel and tap on the Screen Filter notification.
In the app settings, you can choose the brightness level that is applied when you click on the icon. As a precaution, if you select a brightness level that is too low, you will be prompted to confirm the setting. Without confirmation, the app will automatically disable the last setting, which is very handy if you accidentally turn your display completely black.
2. Lux Lite
Lux Lite, by developer Vito Cassisi, is not as simple as Screen Filter, which is why most users like it. In addition to the various settings available, the app provides several profiles that allow you to set different brightness levels and then switch between profiles based on the ambient light.
Install Lux Lite from the Google Play Store. To easily customize the application, tap the icon and select the brightness. You can specify a profile and the brightness level corresponding to it. The profiles pre-installed by the developer are certainly well designed.
By clicking on the gear icon, you can access the many settings that Lux Lite has to offer. Fine-tuning the app allows it to function the way you want it with all your extra preferences, such as dynamic backlight control or the Shake to brighten option.
Those of you who have a rooted device and want to use an additional brightness slider in the notification bar to lower the brightness level below the minimum can use the Screen Filter module from the Xposed library.
While all of these apps are useful when you're in bed late at night, they won't make falling asleep easier. If you're struggling with insomnia, check out the Twilight app or the CF.Lumen root option. These apps gradually filter out the blue light coming from your device's screen, which puts strain on your eyes. By replacing it with another color that is easy to perceive, the application thus makes falling asleep easier.
Regardless of the peculiarities of using a smartphone - whether it's an endless update of feeds social networks, passing mobile games or reading books - the user is constantly looking at his screen. That is why it is extremely important that the picture on the display of the device is pleasing to the eye. IN this case we are talking not only about the level of brightness, but also about other important parameters. Today we will take a look at the applications that allow you to customize them. What programs are included in this list? Let's find out.
Perhaps each of us uses a smartphone before going to bed, right? This can be setting an alarm or chatting with a loved one. Be that as it may, contact with gadgets is highly undesirable. The fact is that thanks to artificial light, I am sure that it is daytime outside, and it is too early to sleep.
Can this be fixed? Yes, and for this you do not have to throw away your favorite smartphone. It is much easier to try the SunFilter application, which is able to change the temperature of the image on the display.
Another auto brightness
Pretty strange name, right? Despite this, dealing with the application is unlikely to be difficult. Its purpose is to increase user control over the automatic brightness level.
According to our colleagues from phonearena, brightness range in this application much wider than that in the function built into the smartphone. Thanks to this, you can not only extend the operating time of the device, but also make using your smartphone more comfortable in conditions poor lighting.
It's hard to underestimate the usefulness of IntelliScreen. With it, you can prevent the display from dimming in a particular application.
In addition, the application is able to turn on the display every time you take the device out of your pocket. Convenient, isn't it?
The principle of operation of Twilight is somewhat similar to SunFilter. The program makes the screen adapt to the time of day, protects the user from the blue spectrum and uses a nice red filter.
Also important is the use of material design.
Do you correct the image on your smartphone? Share your answers in the comments.
The screen of any touch screen is the main consumer of battery power. A bright display during a long game or watching a video can “eat up” the entire battery in half a day, and at the right time you suddenly find your device is idle.
If you need to reduce battery consumption and still not strain your eyes due to a dim screen, then the best solution is to adjust the brightness. Changing the settings every time is inconvenient and inefficient - it's better to set the brightness to Automatic. So you can enjoy a bright picture and not worry about the battery.
1. To dim the screen or set automatic lighting, go to the Settings menu.
2. Select the Device tab.
3. Expand Screen.
4. Select Brightness.
5. In our version, the brightness is controlled by the slider. If you check the Intelligent brightness checkbox, the screen brightness will automatically change based on battery power. When enabled charger brightness will be maximum.
6. If desired, the flag can be removed. In this case, the brightness is adjusted manually - from economical to the most energy-intensive mode.