Enable Developer options and Debugging
To perform advanced testing or connect your Android device to development tools, Developer Options and USB Debugging must be enabled. The exact steps can vary slightly depending on the Android version and device brand.
🔓 Enable Developer Options
Developer Options are hidden by default. Follow these steps:
General Steps (All Versions)
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down to About phone (on some devices, under System > About phone).
- Locate the Build number.
- Tap the Build number 7 times.
- If required, enter your device's PIN or unlock pattern.
- A message will confirm: "You are now a developer!"
📌 On some devices, the "Build number" may be under Software information.
📊 Version-Specific Notes
| Android Version | Location of "Build Number" | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Android 4.1–4.4 | Settings > About phone > Build number | Early access to Developer Options |
| Android 5.x | Settings > About phone > Build number | Developer Options not password-protected |
| Android 6.0–7.x | Settings > About phone > Build number | “System” section may not exist |
| Android 8.0–13 | Settings > System > About phone > Build number | Standard behavior |
| Android 14+ | Settings > About phone > Software info > Build number (on some brands) | May vary slightly by manufacturer |
🛠 Enable USB Debugging
Once Developer Options are visible:
- Go to Settings > System > Developer options (or just Settings > Developer options on some devices).
- Scroll down and enable USB Debugging.
- Confirm the dialog prompt.
📌 Brand-Specific Notes
- Samsung: Developer Options appear under
Settings > Developer optionsafter activation. The Build number is underSettings > About phone > Software information.
🔐 Security Notice
- Only enable USB debugging when needed.
- Disable it when not in use to reduce security risks.
- Never use USB debugging on a public or unknown computer unless you trust the environment.