This feature should be enabled from the get-go on your Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. That’s not the case with the Pixel 4a, for example. So, we’ll show also show you how to enable this feature from the Settings, the process is really simple. Having said that, let’s first talk about how it works, under the presumption it’s enabled already.
How to use one-handed mode in Android 12
If one-handed mode is enabled on your device, all you have to do is swipe down, but from the bottom of the device. Yes, you heard it right, simply swipe your finger from above the horizontal navigation line downwards, and one-handed mode will activate.
Once you do this, the top portion of your display will be lowered to the middle of it (approximately). That way, you’ll be able to reach elements that were at the top of the display. Once you’re done, simply swipe up from the bottom, or tap the empty space in the top portion of the display.
Using a one-handed mode is extremely intuitive in Android 12, and that’s the best part of it. You can simply swipe downwards to activate it, and that’s it. You don’t have to do awkward gestures like on some other Android skins.
How to enable one-handed mode in Android 12
In case one-handed mode is not enabled on your device, we can fix that real quick. You’ll find instructions below, along with screenshots that will show you the way. The first thing you need to do is swipe up on the home screen to access your app drawer. In it, locate the “Settings”, and tap it.
Scroll down until you spot the “System” menu, and enter it.
Now navigate to “Gestures”, which is at the very top of that menu.
In the middle you’ll see the “One-handed mode” option, tap that, and you’ll be able to flip the switch and enable it. This menu also explains how this feature works. Now, if you don’t want to use the swipe-down gesture for one-handed mode, there are some additional options here you can check out.
