How to Quickly Access Device Controls on Your Android 12 Phone

One of the first changes you'll notice after updating to Android 12 is that the handy Device Controls panel—introduced by Google in Android 11—has moved from its original spot.

This panel provides quick access to controls for smart lights, connected home devices, and more. On Pixel phones previously, you could reach it by long-pressing the power button. In Android 12, it's no longer there, but with a simple tweak, you can make it far easier to access.

Reposition the Device Controls Panel in Android 12

In Android 12, the panel now lives in the Quick Settings area (where some manufacturers like Samsung placed it even in Android 11). By default, it might require two swipes down from the top of your screen, plus a swipe left or two. But in under a minute, you can drag it to a prime spot for single-swipe access:

• Swipe down twice from the top of your screen to expand the full Quick Settings panel. If "Device Controls" is already in one of the first four tiles, you're good to go. Otherwise, proceed to edit.
• Tap the pencil icon in the bottom-left corner. On non-Pixel phones, look for a three-line menu icon and select "Edit".
• Locate the "Device Controls" tile, then long-press and drag it to one of the first four positions.
• Tap the back arrow in the top-left to save and exit.

Now, a single swipe down from the top reveals it instantly—much more convenient than before.

While it's not quite as direct as the old power button method, this is the optimal setup available on Android 12, bringing essential smart home controls right to your fingertips.