Many Android users don’t realize that their phone has other ways to restart than just using the power button. These built-in options become especially useful as the physical buttons begin to wear out over time. For Pixel, Samsung and other Android devices, these software alternatives can save your hardware while being more convenient to use.
Regular restarting keeps phones running smoothly by clearing temporary files, disrupting potential malware, and fixing common issues like app crashes and slow performance.
1. Use the Quick Settings panel to restart
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This method is accessible and does not require any special features to be enabled. It uses the commands you already have on your device. Swipe down twice from the top of your screen to fully expand the Quick Settings panel..
Following, look for the little power icon – the location of which will depend on the make and model of your Android. Tap the icon to open the power menu, which is the same as you would get by long-pressing the physical power button.
From the menu that appears, simply tap Restart and your phone will restart without you having to touch a physical button.
Bonus tip: access via the Accessibility menu
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Please note: this method works on most Android phones but not on all models. It works well on Google Pixel devices including the Pixel 9 series, but may not be available on some Samsung models like the Galaxy S22 Ultra. If your phone supports this feature, it is a great reboot alternative.
Open your phone’s Settings app and scroll down to find Accessibility.. Following, tap on it to access accessibility options. In the Accessibility section, look for Menu Accessibility and tap on it to access its settings.
So simply flip the switch to the on position to enable the feature. This will add a small icon to the bottom of your screen. Now every time you need to restart your phone, all you need to do is tap the Accessibility menu icon which appears at the bottom of your screen, select power options And tap Restart.
The Surprising Benefits of Buttonless Restarts
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Beyond reducing wear and tear on your physical button, these software restart methods offer several benefits. They are easier to use for people with limited hand mobility or conditions such as arthritis that make it difficult to press and hold buttons.
The accessibility menu option is especially useful if your power button completely fails and could save you from a costly repair or replacement. Even if your power button works perfectly, using these alternative methods can help extend its lifespan.
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