How to Copy Text from Anywhere on Your Phone — Even if the App Blocks Text Selection

Bypass App Restrictions: Effortlessly Copy Text & Images from Any Android App

Copying text from various sources on your Android device is usually straightforward, but some apps block text selection. This forces users to resort to screenshots or manual transcription. However, a simple workaround exists for Google Pixel users running stock Android, enabling text, image, and URL copying from even the most restrictive apps. This method utilizes the Recents (or Overview) screen, Android's task-switching interface.

Access the Recents Screen

Open the Recents screen from your home screen or any app. Use a swipe-up gesture from the bottom of the screen (holding halfway then releasing) for gesture navigation, or tap the square button in the legacy three-button navigation system.

Two Methods for Text & Image Selection

Once in the app-switching view, two methods allow for selection and copying: "App Overview" and "Overview Select."

Method 1: App Overview

Locate the target app in the Recents screen. The app's card should be centrally positioned. From here, you can select and copy text, URLs, and images, or share content.

1. Copying Text: Long-press on the text to activate selection mode. Drag the selection handles to highlight the desired text. Tap "Copy" to copy to the clipboard. "Search" and "Share" options are also available.

2. Copying a URL: For web browsers, tap the link icon next to the URL to automatically select it. Tap "Copy." Share options are also available.

3. Copying an Image or Image Text: Tap the image icon or long-press the image. Choose "Copy," "Share," "Save," or select a frequent contact/app. To extract text from an image, select "Lens" (requires Google Lens).

Method 2: Overview Select

With the app's card in the center, tap the "Select" button below the card. This highlights all visible text for selection, but lacks quick-share options for images and URLs.

1. Copying Text: Select the desired text and tap "Copy." "Search" and "Share" options are available.

2. Copying a URL: Select the visible URL using the text selection tool.

3. Copying an Image or Image Text: Tap the image to access the pop-up menu. Choose "Copy," "Share," "Save," or "Lens" (requires Google Lens).

This workaround provides a convenient solution for accessing content from apps that restrict text selection. Remember, this is currently limited to Google Pixel devices with stock Android.

Cover photo, screenshots, and GIFs by Tommy Palladino/Gadget Hacks

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