Unlock the full potential of your device with this guide. Whether you're a developer needing USB Debugging for ADB or a power user sideloading apps via AnExplorer, enabling Developer Options is the first step.
Android Phones & Tablets
Most common method for smartphones and tablets (Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus, etc.):
Open the Settings app on your device
Scroll down and tap About phone (or About tablet)
Locate Build number (it might be under a "Software information" menu)
Tap Build number 7 times rapidly until a toast message appears
You'll see a confirmation: "You are now a developer!"
Go back to the main Settings menu and search for Developer options
Open the menu and toggle USB debugging to enable
Note: On some devices, Developer options may appear under "System" or "Additional settings" in the main menu.
Wear OS Smartwatches
Enable debugging for Samsung Galaxy Watch, Pixel Watch, and other Wear OS devices:
Swipe down from the top of the watch face and tap the Settings gear
Scroll to the bottom and tap System
Tap on About
Locate Build number and tap it 7 times quickly
You'll see the message: "Developer mode enabled"
Go back to the System menu and you'll find Developer options at the bottom
Enable ADB debugging and Debug over Wi-Fi for sideloading
VR Headsets (Meta Quest, Pico, etc.)
For Android-based VR and XR headsets to enable sideloading:
Put on your VR headset and navigate to Settings
Go to System or Device settings
Find the About section
Look for Build number or Software version
Select/tap the build number 7 times consecutively
Developer options will now be visible in your System settings
Enable USB debugging to allow sideloading apps via AnExplorer
Note: Manufacturer process may vary. Some headsets require the companion phone app (like Meta Quest) to toggle developer mode.
Android Automotive / In-Car Systems
For built-in Android car infotainment systems (Polestar, Volvo, etc.):
Access the car's main Settings console
Look for System or About car info
Find Build number or Software version of the system
Tap the build number 7 times rapidly
Developer options will appear in your System settings
Enable USB debugging if your hardware supports it
Android TV & Set-top Boxes
For Nvidia Shield, Sony Bravia, and standard Android TV devices:
Use your remote to navigate to Settings
Go to Device Preferences → About
Highlight Build and press the center OK button 7 times
A message will confirm that developer mode is now enabled
Return to Settings → Device Preferences
You will now see Developer options in the list
Enable USB debugging and ADB debugging
Note: Depending on your Android TV version, Build number might be directly under "System" info.
Amazon Fire TV Stick
Unlock developer menus on Fire Stick, Fire TV Cube, and Fire OS devices:
Navigate to Settings using your remote
Go to My Fire TV
Select About
Highlight your device name (e.g., Fire TV Stick) and press the center button 7 times
A message will appear: "No need, you are already a developer"
Go back to My Fire TV, and Developer options will now be visible
Enable ADB debugging and Apps from Unknown Sources
Note: Fire OS is based on Android. Older Fire TV models may list this under "System" instead of "My Fire TV".
Chromebooks with Android Support
For the Android app environment on Chrome OS:
Enable the Linux development environment in Chrome OS settings first
Open the Chrome browser and navigate to chrome://flags
Search for "ARC" (Android Runtime for Chrome)
Enable relevant ARC/Android debugging flags
Restart your Chromebook to apply changes
Open Settings → Advanced → Developers
Turn on Linux development environment
Android debugging will be available through the Linux terminal
Troubleshooting Tips
- Hidden Build Number? Check under "System" -> "Software information" -> "Build number".
- Manufacturer Quirks: Some brands like Xiaomi might require a separate "OEM Unlocking" toggle.
- Security: You may need to enter your PIN, pattern, or password to confirm.
- System Updates: Major OS upgrades may reset developer settings for security.