Billions of Android phones have secret VIP mode that you can turn on for free – simple ‘tap code’ for an amazing upgrade

BUSY or sleeping, we all love the Do Not Disturb setting from time to time.

But each time you opt to switch the world off, you risk missing out on important texts and emergency calls.

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Or perhaps you want work emails off, but dating app notifications on.

If you have this problem, Android smartphones have a feature you need to switch on.

There’s a secret setting that allows you to cherry-pick who you hear from, according to Google‘s user guide.

Android has a “Priority Mode” feature in Android 5.0 Lollipop and later versions.

It allows rings and notifications from a list of contacts you handpick.

All other notifications will remain silent.

How do I access it?

1. Press either the volume up or volume down button on your Android.
2. Beneath the volume slider, you will see a “Priority” option. Tap this.
3. Next, tap on the settings icon.
4. The interruptions settings menu will open. Here, use the toggle switches to customize which notifications you want to allow – and those you don’t.

You can also use a filter that allows calls and messages from anyone, contacts, or only from starred contacts in your phone book.

What other Android tricks should I know about?

There’s the hidden “super sleep” mode that will help you nod off at night.

And of course, there are the secret loopholes that will get Google Assistant to carry out your tasks for you – making the chaos of daily life easier.

Want to upgrade your TV experience? You can also use your Android as an actual television remote to work with your Google TV app.