In this article, we will show you how to screenshot an app that won’t let you on Android using built-in tools, third-party apps, ADB, and screen recording to capture content even from restricted apps.

Taking screenshots on your Android phone is one of the most useful features. Whether you’re trying to capture important information or just want to save something funny, a quick screenshot does the job.

However, there are times when an app will block you from taking screenshots, whether due to security or privacy concerns. If you’re facing this issue, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with several ways to capture those elusive screenshots on your Android device.

In this article, we’ll explore how to screenshot an app that won’t let you on Android devices. We’ll go over some tricks and workarounds to bypass these restrictions safely and effectively.

See Also: 3 Steps to Screenshot on iPad with or without Home Buttons

Why Do Some Apps Block Screenshots?

Before we dive into solutions, it’s important to understand why certain apps restrict screenshots in the first place. Apps like banking, streaming services, and sensitive platforms such as WhatsApp or Netflix often disable screenshots to protect user data, copyrighted material, and other private information. This is a privacy feature designed to ensure that your personal or sensitive data stays secure.

While these restrictions are there for your protection, there are still some legitimate scenarios where you might want to capture a screenshot of the content you’re viewing, and there are ways to do that. Let’s take a look at how to bypass these restrictions.

1. Use Android’s Built-in Screenshot Tools

Android phones come with a simple built-in method to take screenshots. But in some cases, these may not work if the app blocks screenshots. However, it’s always worth trying first.

How to Take a Screenshot on Android:

1. Press the Power Button + Volume Down simultaneously.

2. Your screen should flash, indicating the screenshot has been captured.

3. You can find it in your Gallery or Photos app.

If the app blocks this method, proceed to the following alternatives.

See Also: 4 Methods to Take a Screenshot on a Chromebook

2. Use the “Assistant Menu” for Screenshot Access

Android phones have an Assistant Menu, which can sometimes bypass restrictions on screenshots. This menu can be enabled through your phone’s accessibility settings and will give you more control over your device.

Steps to Enable the Assistant Menu:

1. Go to Settings.

2. Scroll down and select Accessibility.

3. Tap on Interaction and Dexterity.

4. Enable the Assistant Menu.

Once enabled, you can tap the Assistant Menu on your screen, which will show additional options, including a screenshot button. This might work even on apps that block the usual screenshot function.

3. Use Third-Party Apps to Screenshot

If the built-in Android screenshot tools fail to work, third-party apps can often help bypass these restrictions. Here are a couple of apps that may do the trick:

• Screenshot Easy: A free and popular app that lets you take screenshots using customizable gestures, notifications, and other methods.

• AZ Screen Recorder: While primarily used for screen recording, AZ Screen Recorder also allows you to take screenshots while bypassing some app restrictions.

You can download these apps from the Google Play Store and give them a try.

See Also: 5 Ways to Screenshot on Android Phones

4. Use Android Debug Bridge (ADB) for Advanced Users

For tech-savvy users, the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) can be a powerful tool for taking screenshots on apps that block the native screenshot functionality. ADB is part of the Android SDK, and it allows users to control their Android phone from a computer. Using ADB commands, you can capture screenshots even from apps that block normal screenshot functions.

How to Use ADB for Screenshots:

1. Install ADB on your computer. You can find guides online on how to set it up.

2. Enable Developer Options on your Android device by going to Settings > About Phone and tapping Build Number seven times.

3. Enable USB Debugging under Settings > Developer Options.

4. Connect your Android device to your computer via USB.

5. Open a command prompt (or terminal) on your computer and type:

   bash

   Copy

   adb shell screencap /sdcard/screenshot.png


6. Once the screenshot is captured, you can transfer it to your computer by typing:

   bash

   Copy

   adb pull /sdcard/screenshot.png


This method is a bit more advanced and requires some technical know-how, but it works when other options fail.

See Also: 3 Steps to Take a Screenshot on iPhone

5. Use Screen Recording and Capture

If all else fails, you can use screen recording to capture your screen as a video and then take a screenshot from that video. Many Android phones have built-in screen recording tools that allow you to record what’s on your screen, even when apps block screenshots.

Here’s how to record your screen on Android:

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the quick settings menu.

2. Look for the Screen Recorder icon and tap it.

3. Start recording.

4. After finishing the recording, you can take a screenshot from the video playback in your gallery.

Although it’s a more roundabout method, it works in situations where you can’t take a traditional screenshot.

6. Use the Google Assistant

Sometimes, the Google Assistant can help you bypass the restrictions. You can try to ask Google Assistant to take a screenshot for you, even when the app itself doesn’t allow it.

How to Do This:

1. Open the app that you want to take a screenshot in.

2. Activate Google Assistant by saying “Hey Google” or by long-pressing the home button.

3. Say “Take a screenshot.”

4. Google Assistant will take a screenshot for you, and it will save to your photos app.

While this doesn’t always work with every app, it’s a quick option to try.

See Also: 15 Best Screenshot Apps for Mac FREE

Final Thoughts

In summary, while some Android apps may block screenshots for privacy and security reasons, there are still several ways to get around these restrictions. You can try using the built-in screenshot tools, the Assistant Menu, third-party apps, ADB commands, or even screen recording to capture content. Remember to always respect the privacy and security guidelines of the apps you use, and only use these workarounds when it’s absolutely necessary.

If you’re still having trouble or need more advanced options, consider looking into more specific tools or updates that may resolve your issue.

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