Google’s Android ecosystem is packed with powerful, versatile apps that have become part of everyday life. Whether it’s checking messages in Gmail, browsing with Chrome, joining a meeting on Google Meet, navigating with Maps, or saving files on Drive, these apps form the backbone of nearly every Android experience. But beyond these household names lies a world of lesser-known yet incredibly useful tools. Google’s developers have built several underrated applications that don’t dominate the Play Store charts but deliver excellent functionality, creativity, and value to specific audiences. Many of these apps have fewer than 100 million downloads — which is small by Google’s standards — yet they stand out for their innovation and thoughtful design.
If you enjoy discovering new ways to make your Android phone more productive, educational, or creative, these hidden gems from Google deserve a spot on your home screen. Each app solves a specific problem in a clever way, proving that some of Google’s best ideas often fly under the radar.
Photomath
Math has been the bane of many students’ existence, and even with internet access, typing equations accurately into a search bar can be tedious. That’s where Google’s Photomath app comes in — a brilliant application that allows you to simply point your phone’s camera at a math problem and instantly receive a step-by-step solution. Whether the equation is handwritten, printed, or displayed on a screen, Photomath recognizes it with impressive accuracy.
Beyond providing answers, Photomath emphasizes understanding. It breaks down each step of the problem-solving process so students can learn how to reach the answer themselves. This makes it ideal not just for quick homework help but for genuine comprehension. The app supports everything from basic arithmetic and algebra to advanced calculus, linear equations, and trigonometry.
Photomath also includes a built-in calculator that supports scientific operations, including trigonometric and logarithmic functions. If the camera struggles to capture a complex equation, you can type it manually for the same results. Each solution comes with a “Show Solution” button, and users who opt for the Plus version can access even more detailed explanations, animated visuals, and interactive learning aids. Photomath is a fusion of tutoring, technology, and convenience that transforms math practice from frustration to clarity.
Lookout
Accessibility is an area where AI can make a life-changing difference, and Google’s Lookout app proves just that. Designed for individuals who are visually impaired or blind, Lookout turns your Android phone’s camera into an intelligent assistant that recognizes objects, reads text aloud, and helps identify surroundings in real time.
Lookout includes multiple modes tailored to different situations. “Text” mode instantly reads short snippets like signs, labels, or packaging. “Document” mode scans longer pages and converts them into a readable digital format, with adjustable text spacing, color contrast, and font size for accessibility. The “Currency” mode identifies banknotes, while “Food Labels” and “Find” modes help with groceries or locating specific objects around you.
One of the most remarkable features is “Image” mode, which analyzes photos and explains what’s in them using natural language powered by generative AI. For example, you can upload a photo of your desk, and Lookout will describe objects present, their arrangement, and even answer follow-up questions. Available since Android 6.0, it’s compatible with most smartphones — making it a valuable way to repurpose older devices for a noble purpose. Lookout transforms a simple smartphone camera into a powerful accessibility companion.
Read Along by Google
While young children can enjoy learning videos on YouTube Kids, there’s another Google product tailored specifically to build reading confidence — Read Along by Google. This engaging educational app helps children improve their literacy skills by reading aloud with an AI-based reading assistant named Diya.
Diya listens as the child reads through stories and gently corrects mispronunciations or skipped words in real time. The stories are categorized by difficulty levels, ensuring each reader works at their own pace. As children progress, new stories are unlocked to maintain engagement and curiosity. To keep learning fun, Read Along features rewards such as stars, badges, and prizes for finishing stories or achieving reading milestones. These elements motivate children to keep practicing while feeling accomplished along the way.
The app’s content is available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Spanish, Tamil, and Portuguese, among others, making it accessible to a global audience. Best of all, Read Along can work offline — once you download a story, no internet connection is required. This makes it ideal for long trips, schools, or households with limited connectivity. With a friendly interface, voice feedback, and adaptive challenges, Read Along transforms reading practice into an enjoyable learning adventure.
Chrome Remote Desktop
As the line between computers and mobile devices continues to blur, Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop app stands out as an incredibly useful bridge between the two. It allows users to remotely access and control their computer directly from their Android phone or tablet. Once both devices are linked under the same Google account, users can manage work files, operate programs, and troubleshoot issues from anywhere.
Whether you want to check on a download, access important documents, or assist a friend with computer problems, Chrome Remote Desktop makes remote access simple. The interface mirrors your desktop screen on your Android device, allowing direct interaction through touch or an on-screen mouse pointer. Despite its technical nature, the setup process is straightforward, making it accessible even for users who aren’t tech-savvy.
The most practical applications include remote work, quick file transfers, and technical support. You can launch an app, check emails, or send files to clients without being physically present at your workstation. For professionals and students who rely heavily on computers, this app adds a powerful layer of flexibility to daily life.
Google Arts & Culture
If you’re passionate about art, history, and exploration, Google Arts & Culture brings the world’s cultural treasures right to your Android phone. The app functions as a massive virtual museum, housing thousands of high-resolution artworks, galleries, and historical artifacts sourced from leading museums and institutions around the globe.
The app features several interactive sections. “Explore” is the main hub, where users can view artworks, learn the histories behind them, and even go on immersive virtual tours of renowned museums and landmarks. The “Play” section adds an enjoyable dimension with educational games such as “Mice in the Museum” or “Daily Gallery,” allowing users to curate or interact with exhibits. The “Studio” section uses AI-based creativity tools like “Art Transfer” and “Art Remix,” which enable users to transform their own photos into artistic works inspired by famous painters. Finally, “Inspire” delivers short scrollable stories and visuals similar to social media feeds — perfect for quick bursts of learning and inspiration.
Google Arts & Culture doesn’t just digitize art; it makes it interactive and approachable. Whether you’re a student researching art history, a traveler planning to visit global landmarks, or a casual enthusiast seeking visual inspiration, this app condenses the richness of world culture into the palm of your hand.
Why These Apps Stand Out
These lesser-known Google apps were chosen not just for their download counts but for their lasting value and design quality. Each serves a distinct purpose — Photomath streamlines learning, Lookout enhances accessibility, Read Along empowers children, Chrome Remote Desktop increases productivity, and Google Arts & Culture enriches creativity.
All of these apps hold at least a 4.0-star rating on the Play Store, demonstrating consistent user satisfaction despite limited public awareness. They exemplify Google’s versatility as a developer beyond mainstream services, showcasing how technology can simplify learning, accessibility, and artistic exploration.
In an ecosystem dominated by familiar names like Gmail, YouTube, and Maps, these underrated apps prove that the company’s innovation extends far beyond its most popular experiences. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, assist others, or explore new ways to connect with knowledge and art — these hidden gems are worth discovering on your Android device.
