How to enable Developer Options on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To enable Developer Options on Android, navigate to 'Settings', scroll down to 'About phone', and tap 'Build number' seven times. This unlocks Developer Options, allowing you to access advanced features and settings.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before enabling Developer Options, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •An Android device running version 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) or later.
  • •Sufficient battery charge (at least 30%) to prevent interruptions.
  • •Access to the device's settings menu.
  • •No restrictions or parental controls that prevent access to Developer Options.

Method 1: Enable Developer Options via Settings

This is the most common method to enable Developer Options on Android devices.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app from your app drawer or home screen.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'About phone' or 'About device'.
  • •Step 3: Locate 'Build number' and tap it seven times. You may need to enter your device's PIN or password to confirm.
  • •Step 4: A message will appear stating 'You are now a developer!'. Go back to the main 'Settings' menu, and you will see 'Developer options' listed.
  • •Step 5: Tap on 'Developer options' to access the settings and toggle them on.

For Android 11 and later

The steps remain largely the same, but the interface may differ slightly.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'About phone'.
  • •Step 3: Tap 'Software information'.
  • •Step 4: Tap 'Build number' seven times.
  • •Step 5: Confirm with your PIN if prompted, and check for the 'You are now a developer!' message.

For Android 10 and earlier

The process is similar, but the location of 'Build number' may vary.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'About phone'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down to find 'Build number' and tap it seven times.
  • •Step 4: Confirm with your PIN if prompted.

Method 2: Enable Developer Options via ADB

This method is useful for users who prefer command line tools or need to enable Developer Options remotely.
  • •Step 1: Ensure you have ADB (Android Debug Bridge) installed on your computer.
  • •Step 2: Connect your Android device to your computer via USB.
  • •Step 3: Open a command prompt or terminal window.
  • •Step 4: Type 'adb devices' to ensure your device is recognized.
  • •Step 5: Type 'adb shell settings put global development_settings_enabled 1' and press Enter.
  • •Step 6: Restart your device. Developer Options should now be enabled.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while enabling Developer Options, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'No such option' - Solution: Ensure you are tapping 'Build number' correctly and that your device is not restricted.
  • •Issue: Developer Options not appearing - Fix: Restart your device and try the steps again.
  • •Problem: Unable to enter Developer Options - Workaround: Check if your device has any restrictions or parental controls enabled.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Maximize your use of Developer Options with these expert tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Use 'Ctrl + Shift + I' in Chrome to open Developer Tools for web debugging.
  • •Command line: Use 'adb logcat' to view logs from your device in real-time.
  • •Hidden feature: Enable 'USB Debugging' in Developer Options to allow your device to communicate with ADB.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing Developer Options effectively can significantly enhance your Android experience, especially for app development and testing.