How to Use Game Mode on Android: Block Distractions, Record Clips, and More
Use your Android phone’s built-in game mode — Pixel Game Dashboard or Samsung Game Booster — to block alerts, record clips, and tune performance.
Many Android phones include a built-in game mode — a panel of tools you can open while playing. It can block notifications, prevent accidental swipes, record gameplay, and show performance stats. The name and features depend on your phone brand, but the basics are similar. Here’s how to find and use it.
What game mode can do
Depending on your phone, game mode tools may include:
- Do Not Disturb while gaming
- Block navigation gestures so you don’t accidentally go home mid-match
- Screen recording and screenshots from a floating menu
- Performance options that prioritize smoothness or battery life
- Frame rate (FPS) counter
- Brightness lock to stop auto-brightness from changing during play
Google Pixel: Game Dashboard
Pixel phones include Game Dashboard, which appears as a small floating button when you open a game.
- Go to Settings → Apps → Game settings (on some versions, search Settings for “Game Dashboard”).
- Turn on Game Dashboard.
- Open a game and tap the floating controller button.
From the dashboard, you can turn on Do Not Disturb, take screenshots, record your screen, show an FPS counter, and choose a performance or battery-saving optimization for games that support it. You can drag the floating button to the side of the screen so it stays out of the way.
Samsung Galaxy: Game Booster
Samsung phones include Game Booster, usually available through the Gaming Hub app (formerly Game Launcher).
- Open Gaming Hub and find its settings, or open a game and swipe up from the bottom to reveal the navigation bar.
- Tap the Game Booster icon (it looks like a controller) at the corner of the navigation bar.
- Use the panel to block notifications, lock navigation keys, record, or change performance options.
Samsung’s options and names change between One UI versions, so look for similar wording if your menu looks different.
Tip: If the floating button covers part of your game’s controls, drag it to a corner or hide it in game mode settings. You can usually still open it with a swipe.
Other Android phones
Most major brands include similar tools, often called Game Space, Game Turbo, or Game Assistant. Check your phone’s Settings app and search for “game.”
Recording your best moments
Game mode recording is the easiest way to save clips without installing extra apps. Before you record:
- Check whether audio recording includes game sound, your microphone, or both.
- Make sure you have free storage — video files grow quickly.
- Turn on Do Not Disturb so notifications don’t appear in your clip.
You can also use Android’s built-in Screen record tile in Quick Settings.
Performance modes: what do they really do?
Performance options usually trade battery life for smoothness:
| Mode | What it does | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Allows higher speeds and frame rates | Competitive shooters, short sessions |
| Standard / Balanced | Default behavior | Most games |
| Battery saver | Limits performance to reduce heat and drain | Casual games, long trips |
Performance modes can make your phone warmer. If your phone gets hot, switch to balanced mode and read our guide on stopping your phone from overheating while gaming.
Block gestures to stop accidental exits
If you use gesture navigation, swiping from the bottom or side edges can send you home in the middle of a fight. Game mode can lock or require a double swipe for gestures while a game is open. This one setting can save a lot of frustration.
The bottom line
Game mode is free, already on your phone, and takes two minutes to set up. Turn on notification blocking and gesture lock, then explore recording and performance options. It’s one of the easiest ways to make mobile gaming smoother.
Frequently asked questions
Does game mode make games run faster?
Game mode doesn’t add new power, but performance profiles can let your phone prioritize the game. Blocking notifications and background activity also helps games feel smoother.
Does game mode drain the battery?
Performance profiles can use more battery and create more heat. Battery-saving profiles do the opposite. Choose based on the game and how long you plan to play.
Can I use game mode with any game?
Most phones detect games automatically. If a game doesn’t appear, you can usually add it manually in the game mode or game launcher settings.
Spotted something out of date? Apps change fast. Let us know and we’ll review the guide.
