How to Take a Screenshot on Android

This article explains how to take screenshots on an Android phone or tablet. Instructions apply to devices running Android version 4.0 or later.

Ask Google to Do It

Google Assistant will do the work for you. Just say, "OK, Google - take a screenshot." It will take the shot and send you immediately to quick share and messaging options, including social media apps you have installed, to quickly send the shot to someone else.

If you prefer to save it on your device, look for the option under Apps to Upload to Photos.

Press the Power and Volume Down Buttons Simultaneously

Google introduced the screenshot feature with Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich). To take a screenshot, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the screen you want to record with a screenshot.

2. Press the Power and Volume Down buttons quickly at the same time. (Getting this right might take some practice.) The screen might flash or appear to shrink slightly to indicate the screenshot has been taken.

3. Look for the screenshot in your photo gallery or in a screenshots folder.

Use Your Phone's Built-in Shortcuts

Some phones come with built-in apps and gestures. For example, on some Samsung devices, swipe the edge of your palm across the screen from right to left.

Install an App for Screenshots

If you don't have Android 4.0 or later on your phone, or if it doesn't have a built-in screenshot feature, install an Android app. Here are a few to try:

• Screen Capture Shortcut Free takes screenshots after a delay or when you shake the phone.
• No Root Screenshot It offers a widget and allows you to annotate, crop, and share screenshots.
• Screencap Root Screenshots (requires rooting).

For more, search the Google Play Store for screenshot, screen grab, or screen capture.

Use Android Studio

You can take an Android screen capture on any compatible device by installing Android Studio from Google on your computer. This software development kit is used by developers to create and test Android apps, but it's freely available to everyone.

You'll also need the Java SE Development Kit and, in some cases, USB drivers for your device (check for these on the manufacturer's website). Then, plug in the phone, run the Dalvik Debug Monitor (included in Studio), go to the Debug Monitor menu, and click Device > Screen Capture. This is a clunky way to take screenshots, but if nothing else works or you have Studio already set up, it's easy to use.

Screenshot Uses

A few examples of how you might use screenshots include:

• As a way to show tech support at a remote location what's going on with your phone.
• To save something you see on the internet that interests you or that you'd like to share as a photo.
• As evidence of phishing or threatening messages.