On our mobile phones, we have a powerful all-in-one device that helps us communicate, track daily activity, capture photos, and access virtually unlimited information. These smartphone features support both our professional and personal lives.
The same phone that sends a Slack notification when a coworker needs help can also alert you when a friend beats your Wordle score. When work and personal notifications share one device, maintaining a healthy boundary can be difficult.
Fortunately, Android smartphones offer a practical solution. Android supports multiple user profiles linked to separate Google Accounts, allowing you to switch between two distinct environments. The most common use is to create separate work and personal profiles.
This feature is similar to carrying two smartphones in one physical device. Your active user profile controls which apps are available, which notifications appear, what browsing history you can view, and which files you can access. These settings are connected to the Google Account associated with each profile.
Multiple user profiles have been available in Android for years and are supported on many devices, including Google Pixel smartphones. However, not every Android manufacturer offers the feature. Samsung Galaxy phones, for example, do not support Android’s standard multiple-user profiles, although Samsung provides a comparable option through Secure Folder.
How to Create a Separate User Profile on Android
To create a second Android user profile, you’ll need another Google Account. Many people already have a separate account provided by their employer. If you do not, you can create a free Google Account to use as your work or personal profile. On the Google Account website, select Create an account.
During setup, Google will ask for information such as your name and date of birth. You’ll also choose a Gmail address for the account. This address will be used to sign in on your Android phone and on the web. Google may suggest available addresses based on your name, but you can create a custom address if it has not already been claimed.
After creating your second Google Account, open your Android phone’s Settings app and select System > Multiple users or Users. Tap Add user, then select Next to confirm. Enter a name for the new user profile, and tap the user icon when prompted. Choose Switch to… to activate the new profile, then follow the onscreen instructions to sign in with your second Google Account.
Source: www.wired.com