How to Set Up and Manage Multiple User Profiles on Android

Sharing your personal smartphone or household tablet with your children, family members, or colleagues often creates privacy anxieties. You worry about someone accidentally reading your private messaging threads, viewing personal photo albums, or modifying your work accounts. Built directly into the Android operating system, the Multiple Users feature functions just like user accounts on a Windows PC or Mac. Each profile possesses its own dedicated storage space, distinct Google account, personalized app installations, separate home screens, and individual wallpaper settings.

Profiles vs. Guest Mode: Which Should You Use?

Android provides two distinct multi-user configurations:

• New User Profile: Designed for someone who uses the device regularly (such as a child or spouse). Their apps, game progress, and accounts remain stored permanently between logins.
• Guest Mode: Designed for temporary lending (such as letting a friend make a phone call or browse the web). Guest sessions can be erased completely with a single tap once the guest finishes using the phone.

How to Enable Multiple Users on Android

Activating multi-user support requires turning on the master setting:

1. Open the Settings app on your Android device (Google Pixel, Motorola, Xiaomi, etc.).
2. Scroll down and tap on System.
3. Tap on Multiple users (on Samsung Galaxy tablets and select phones, navigate to Settings > Accounts and backup > Users).
4. Toggle the switch to Allow multiple users (or On).

How to Add a New User or Guest

Setting up an account is quick and guided:

1. Under the Multiple users menu, tap + Add user.
2. Read the informational prompt and tap OK.
3. Enter the person’s name (e.g., Alex) and tap OK.
4. Tap Set up now. The phone will immediately switch to the new profile.
5. The new user can now follow the standard Google setup wizard to sign into their own Google Account, download their own apps, and set their own lock screen PIN or fingerprint.

How to Switch Between User Profiles Instantly

Switching accounts takes two swipes:

1. Swipe down twice from the top of the screen to open the full Quick Settings panel.
2. Look at the bottom corner for the small User Avatar icon (silhouette of a person).
3. Tap the avatar to view all registered profiles and Guest mode.
4. Tap the profile you wish to use. The screen switches instantly to that user’s private desktop environment.