Transforming My Android Phone’s Camera Notch into an Innovative Shortcut

When I set up a new Android device, I often install numerous apps. Some of these are must-haves like Bitwarden and Authenticator, along with various productivity tools crucial for my daily tasks.

Moreover, there are utility apps that I prioritize right after installation. For Pixel users, the Essentials app is invaluable, offering extended functionality. For testing other Android devices, I rely heavily on Action Notch—a free app that enhances the utility of my device’s notch.

Most Android devices now come equipped with a notch that houses the front-facing camera. Action Notch transforms this notch into a virtual button, allowing users to perform various functions through simple taps or swipes. For instance, you can program the app so that a single tap on the notch captures a screenshot.

Moreover, Action Notch accommodates multiple gestures such as double-tap and long-press, ensuring versatility. With over 50 available actions, you can execute tasks ranging from toggling a flashlight to launching complex automated routines designed in apps like Tasker or MacroDroid.

Opting for the pro version unlocks further gestures and functionalities, including the ability to define rule-based actions, allowing a single gesture to trigger different actions based on the context. For instance, a single-tap can take a screenshot in one application while toggling the flashlight in another.

Having utilized Action Notch for several years, I’ve discovered numerous practical uses. Currently, I’ve set up three gestures: Single Touch, Double Touch, and Long Touch—all available in the free version. Here’s how I’ve tailored them:

Single Touch: As a user of both Android and iPhone, I often miss certain features unique to each platform. One such feature is the ability to scroll to the top of a page by tapping the top of the screen. The Action Notch app allows me to replicate this by setting Single Touch to scroll to the top, letting me quickly navigate to the top of any app.

Double Touch: Similarly, Action Notch offers a Scroll to Bottom action. I’ve assigned this to the Double Touch gesture, which facilitates easy navigation through lengthy chats or scrolling to the footer of single-page websites.

Long Touch: I frequently take screenshots, and the standard combination of pressing the power and volume buttons feels cumbersome. With Action Notch, I can perform a Long Touch on the notch to take a screenshot effortlessly, streamlining my workflow significantly.

Besides these gestures, I value other functionalities, like In-App Shortcuts for rapid access to specific app features. I also appreciate the Run Automation feature, which triggers my macros without needing automatic activation.

Getting started with Action Notch requires a one-time configuration, which is user-friendly. Download and install the app from the Play Store, then grant the necessary permissions as prompted.

You will see various gesture options available. For example, if you want to set the Single Touch gesture to toggle the flashlight, select Single Touch, navigate to Device Controls, and choose Toggle Flashlight. You can easily set up other gestures in the same manner.

Once configured, Action Notch operates in the background, ready to respond to your predefined gestures, executing the associated actions instantly.

You can also modify the app’s behavior. By default, it utilizes the notch, but you can expand its functionality to the whole status bar and adjust the notch’s position on the screen. Additional settings include enabling/disabling haptics and disabling battery optimization. Access these by tapping the slider icon for options.

I always activate the Disable on Call and Disable on Lock Screen options to prevent accidental gesture triggers. I also utilize the blacklist configuration to inhibit Action Notch within certain apps, enhancing usability without interruption, particularly in games and applications with top menus.

Action Notch significantly facilitates performing daily activities on my Android device. While not the sole app to turn a notch into a functional button, it stands out for two key reasons: its free version offers three gestures, and it encompasses a wide range of actions.

Nevertheless, it has its flaws; the free version contains advertisements throughout. While some ads are necessary, the recent surge in full-screen ads makes the user experience cumbersome, hindering navigation and configuration.

Even with these drawbacks, Action Notch remains one of my essential apps. It’s a tool I can’t do without, so if it’s not yet part of your Android experience, now is the time to consider installing it.