How To Enable USB Debugging on Nexus 5
Looking to enable USB debugging on your Nexus 5 handset? Well, you’ve come to the right place! We’re going to walk you through the steps in today’s blog post, revealing exactly how (and why) to use debugging.
What is USB Debugging?
Also known as Developer Mode in some Android versions, USB Debugging is a feature that allows Android users to facilitate a connection between their mobile device and a computer via the Software Development Kit (SDK). This is particularly beneficial for app developers, as it allows for the testing of apps within the Android interface. Ask any seasoned app developer and they’ll agree: testing is critical to the success of an app. With USB debugging, developers can test their apps to ensure they work and function as intended.
But even non-developers can benefit from USB debugging. For instance, you can run terminal commands via USB to restore a bricked device. If your Nexus 5 — or any Android device for that matter — becomes bricked, you can use USB debugging to issue commands in an effort to fix it.
Steps to Enable USB Debugging on Nexus 5
Thankfully, enabling USB debugging on the Nexus 5 is a relatively easy and straightforward process. Keep in the mind that the exact method varies depending on the version of Android your device is running. In this tutorial, we’re going to assume your Nexus 5 is running Android Lollipop, which is the most recent version of Google’s mobile operating system.
To enable USB debugging, fire up your Nexus 5 and tap the App Drawer > Settings > scroll down and choose about About Phone under System. Here’s where things get tricky. You won’t see an option labeled “USB debugging,” so many people assume they did something wrong or missed a step. In reality, though, you are at the right spot. If you look at the bottom of the About Phone settings, you’ll see a Build Number. Go ahead and tap this option seven times, at which point your Nexus 5 will enter USB debugging mode. Sorry if you were expecting more, but that’s all it takes to enable USB debugging!
Keep in mind that USB debugging will enable some features that were previously disabled, so don’t be alarmed if you happen to discover new options within your Nexus 5. Google restricts certain Android options to devices running in this mode, which is why it’s a good idea to learn how to enable and disable it. Even if you have no intentions of developing an app, you may still want or need to access these features.
If you ever wish to disable USB debugging on your Nexus 5, you can follow the same steps mentioned above. Just remember, tap the build number for your Nexus 5 seven times and you’ll enter or leave USB debugging.
Did this tutorial work for you? Let us know in the comments section below!
