Guest Mode

Has someone ever asked to borrow your phone in an emergency? If so, you know that there’s always a concern that your personal information might be exposed. The good news is that your phone has settings that can restrict access to your data in these situations.

For Android devices running version 9 or above, you can use “Guest Mode” or create a “new user” profile. “Guest Mode” functions like a restored version of your phone, with only factory-installed apps and no access to your files, accounts, or personal data. In Guest Mode, the person who borrowed your phone will still be able to make calls, browse the Internet, and use other basic features.

To access this option, go to “Settings” and look for “Users and accounts”. Tap “Users” and select “Guests”. This profile can be easily deleted after your device is no longer being used by someone else.

If you need to lend your phone frequently or share it with someone at home, such as your children, you can create separate profiles by selecting “Add user”. In this case, it's as if the same phone had multiple users, each with their own account, apps, and personalized settings.

To add a new user, follow the same steps as for “Guest Mode”, but at the final step, select “Add user” instead.

Android also allows you to pin an app to the screen, so only that specific app can be used.

On iOS, features like “Guest Mode” or “Add Users” are not available. However, you can use a feature known as “Guided Access” to lock the device to a single app and control which features will be available.

Now that you are aware of these settings, put them into practice and, if you lend your phone, do it safely and without compromising your privacy. 

Audio Description

In the first scene, a girl is holding her cell phone, when a friend standing next to her asks to borrow it. Above them, a phrase appears: “Do you need to lend your cell phone?”.

In the second scene, the girl uses her cell phone while the device's screen is shown beside her and displays the user settings. She adds a new user which she labels “Friend”. At the top of the screen, the phrase “Create a separate profile for this” appears.

In the third scene, the “Guest” option is highlighted in a red square on the phone screen. Above the girl and the screen, the phrase “or use ‘Guest Mode’” appears.

In the fourth scene, the phrase “Protect your privacy!” appears at the top of the screen. The girl explains to her friend how to use the phone. Next to her, the friend successfully uses the device. They both smile.