We carry our smartphones around with us everywhere, and yet most people aren’t aware of all the amazing features they really have to offer. From practical ways to streamline daily tasks to built-in tools to help you stay more mindful, you need to try out these 15 hidden smartphone features.
Flash Notifications
If you’re in a loud setting or you’re hearing-impaired, smartphones offer a convenient feature to help you stay notified. Both iPhones and Androids allow users to turn on flash notifications to alert you of calls, texts, and other alerts. Navigate to the accessibility or notification settings to turn on flash notifications.
Pin Conversations in Messages
Whether you text for work or simply have a lot of friends and family to keep up with, it can be difficult to sift through your texts for a specific message thread. Try pinning important conversations to the top of your messages for easier access. Do so by long pressing on a conversation in the messaging app. Select “pin” to stick it to the top of your conversations.
One-Handed Mode
Large screens are helpful for many applications. But when you’re on the run and want to shoot off a quick text, they can be a bit cumbersome. Shrink down your screen for easy thumb access. Go to your accessibility or advanced features to turn on the gesture that shrinks your screen.
Document Scanner
How often do you go out of your way to find a scanner to digitize an important document? It’s actually super easy to use your phone to scan documents. You can scan documents directly in your notes app on the iPhone. Simply open the Notes app, tap the camera button above the keyboard, and hit “Scan Document”. You can scan documents on Android phones, too. Use Google Drive or other free scanner apps.
Back Tap or Gesture Shortcuts
There are a lot of customizable features waiting to be unlocked on both iPhones and Androids. You can attach back taps or gestures to many different functions. Double-tap the back of your iPhone or pair a swipe gesture on Android to trigger shortcuts such as opening the camera or taking a screenshot.
Built-In QR Code Scanner
You’ve likely seen QR codes out and about more and more in recent years. These scannable patterned images hold a link to landing pages such as menus, discounts, or apps. Every smartphone has a built-in QR scanner. Open your camera app and focus it on the QR code—both iOS and Android will instantly recognize it and take you to the link.
Various Focus Modes
Let’s face it, these handheld devices can be a major distraction. Luckily, most smartphones include digital wellness features to help balance your usage. Focus mode allows you to block out some or all notifications from popping up on your screen. It allows you to customize modes such as “Work,” “Sleep,” or “Driving” focus to limit distractions.
Live Transcribe
Both iPhones and Androids feature built-in accessibility tools. One tool auto-generates captions for audio in real time. Whether you’re a college student taking notes or you’re hearing-impaired and need a transcript for meetings, this is a handy feature. All Androids have Live Transcribe, while only iPhones with iOS 16+ feature Live Captions.
Customize Vibration Patterns
Most of us are well aware of the option to choose different ringtones for different contacts. But did you know you can customize vibrations, too? Navigate to Contacts or Sound settings to select different vibration patterns for different people in your contact list. This is an amazing feature for those who prefer to keep their phone on silent.
Screen Recording
All smartphones allow you to screen record natively. Whether you found a funny video you want to share, or you need to make a note of something important for later, this function makes it easy to capture your screen. Simply swipe down on your iPhone and on Android, find the “Screen Record” or “Screen Recorder” icon.
Magnifier Tool
Need to get a closer look? Use your smartphone as a magnifying glass by simply opening the camera app and zooming in. You’ll be surprised how crisp the magnified image can be. For the best results, turn the flash on for extra visibility. Newer smartphones also feature a native magnifying glass with an even closer zoom function.
Share Wi-Fi Instantly
Figuring out the Wi-Fi password in a coffee shop or even at your friend’s house can be a hassle. If you and your buddy have the same type of phone, you can instantly share Wi-Fi access. If you both have iPhones, you should be prompted to share the password automatically when you click on the network. On Android, a QR code to share the login information will appear.
Translate Text Instantly
Whether you’re learning a new language or traveling abroad, instant translation can be a lifesaver. Instantly translate foreign text on any smartphone using the Google Translate app. All you need to do is open the app and scan the text—no typing necessary. The iPhone features a built-in Translate app where you can type or scan for a translation.
Universal Search
With an array of apps and native functions, it can take a while to track down what you’re looking for on your phone. The universal search function is a major time-saver in a pinch. To access it, swipe down on your home screen to instantly search for anything from apps to messages on both iOS and Android.
Digital Wellbeing
Technology is an amazing tool when used in moderation. However, it can easily consume your time and distract you from being present. Both iPhones and Androids monitor your screen time for your reference. Your report will break down the daily average of your screen time as well as which apps you’re spending the most time on. You can use this information to cut back on usage and set parameters for how often and when you can use your phone.
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