How to Use the Wi-Fi Bluetooth Quick Settings in Android 5.1

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Published 19 Mar 2015

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Disclosure
Android 5.1 is out for Nexus devices and on the way for other phones. It features two helpful tweaks to connecting to Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices. When you swipe down with two fingers to the quick settings panel. You’ll notice the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth buttons now have small arrows underneath them.
wifi network 1
The available Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices can now be accessed in the quick settings menu.

These are linked to a pop-up menu. With Wi-Fi, touch it, and you’ll get a list of the available Wi-Fi networks in range. Just touch the one you want to switch to your device will change over to that network. It works a little differently with Bluetooth. Touching the arrow brings only the devices you’ve previously paired. You’ll need to touch More Settings to connect to a new device. This section displays all Bluetooth-enabled devices that are nearby. You’ll need to go to this extra step in pairing a device for the first time. This distinction makes sense, as connecting to a new Wi-Fi network is pretty standard. Visiting a coffee shop or a conference. Bluetooth pairing is more exhaustive. Hiding unfamiliar devices deeper in the settings is best.