10 Hidden Functions on Your Phone You Didn’t Know Existed

Our smartphones are packed with features that can make our lives easier, but many of these handy functions are often overlooked. Here are ten hidden functions that might surprise you and make you wonder how you managed without them!

1. Built-In Document Scanner

Most smartphones have a built-in document scanner right in their Notes or Files app. For example, on iPhones, open the Notes app, start a new note, and tap the camera icon to find the “Scan Documents” option. This allows you to scan and save high-quality PDF files of your documents instantly.

2. Measure Objects with Your Phone

Modern smartphones have a “Measure” app that uses augmented reality (AR) to gauge the dimensions of objects. Simply point your camera at the object, and your phone will calculate its length or height, making it ideal for quick measurements without a ruler or tape measure.

3. Voice Commands for Hands-Free Use

Beyond Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa, your smartphone offers additional voice commands to control the device. You can activate these assistants hands-free with commands like “Hey Siri” or “Hey Google,” allowing you to set reminders, play music, or even unlock your device without touching it.

4. Customizable Back Tap Shortcuts (iPhone)

With iPhone’s Back Tap feature (available on iOS 14 and later), you can customize double or triple taps on the back of your phone to perform various actions. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap, and assign shortcuts like taking a screenshot, opening the camera, or even accessing specific apps.

5. Android’s Split-Screen Mode

If you’re an Android user, you can use the split-screen feature to run two apps simultaneously, great for multitasking. Simply open an app, go to the app switcher, tap the app’s icon, and select “Split screen.” Then, open the second app, and both will run side-by-side.

6. Quickly Share Wi-Fi Passwords with QR Codes

If you need to share your Wi-Fi network with guests, your phone can generate a QR code containing the network info. On Android, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi, tap on your connected network, and select the Share option to generate a QR code. iPhones also support Wi-Fi password sharing with other Apple devices nearby without needing to share the actual code.

7. Magnifying Glass Feature

Your smartphone’s camera can double as a magnifying glass. On iPhone, you can enable the Magnifier by going to Settings > Accessibility > Magnifier. On Android, look for Magnification Gestures or Magnifier Window in the accessibility settings. This feature enlarges small text or objects, making it easier to read fine print.

8. One-Handed Keyboard Mode

Typing with one hand can be tricky on large phones, but many phones offer a one-handed keyboard mode. On iPhone, hold the emoji or globe icon on the keyboard and select either the left or right keyboard option. On Android, go to Settings > System > Languages & Input > Virtual Keyboard > Gboard and enable one-handed mode.

9. Hide Photos Without Deleting Them

Most phones now offer the ability to hide photos without deleting them. On iPhone, select a photo in the Photos app, tap the share icon, and select Hide. Hidden photos will go to the Hidden album. Android users can also hide photos through the Google Photos app by moving them to the Archive.

10. Find Your Phone Even in Silent Mode

Losing your phone on silent can be frustrating, but you can still locate it using Find My iPhone on Apple devices or Find My Device on Android. These services let you make your phone ring at full volume, even if it’s in silent mode, making it easier to locate around the house.

Wrapping Up

These hidden features are just a glimpse into the versatility of modern smartphones. As software updates continue to roll out, more helpful tools become available, enhancing both the convenience and functionality of your device. Experiment with these features to get the most out of your phone and make everyday tasks a little easier.