The iPhone is one of the most popular smartphones in the world, known for its sleek design, impressive features, and user-friendly interface. However, despite its popularity, many iPhone users are unaware of some of the hidden features that the device has to offer. In this article, we will explore some of the most useful hidden iPhone features that you may not know about.
1- Measure App: The Measure app is a hidden gem that allows you to measure the dimensions of objects using your iPhone’s camera. Simply open the app, point your camera at the object you want to measure, and move your phone around to get an accurate measurement.
2- AssistiveTouch: AssistiveTouch is a feature that allows you to perform a range of actions without having to physically press the home button or power button on your iPhone. To enable AssistiveTouch, go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch. You can then customize the actions you want to perform with AssistiveTouch.
3- Customized Keyboard Shortcuts: If you find yourself typing the same phrases or sentences repeatedly, you can create custom keyboard shortcuts to save time. To create a shortcut, go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement. From there, you can enter the phrase you want to use and the shortcut you want to use to activate it.
4- Swipe Typing: If you’re tired of tapping out each letter on your keyboard, you can enable swipe typing. This allows you to simply swipe your finger across the letters you want to use to create words. To enable swipe typing, go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Swipe Typing.
5- Hidden Trackpad: Did you know that your iPhone’s keyboard can be used as a trackpad? To activate this hidden feature, simply press down on the keyboard until it turns grey. You can then move your finger around to navigate through text more easily.
6- Offline Siri: If you’re in an area with poor connectivity, you can still use Siri by enabling Offline Dictation. To do this, go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Enable Dictation > Enable Offline Dictation.
7- Emergency SOS: Emergency SOS is a feature that allows you to quickly call for help in an emergency. To enable this feature, go to Settings > Emergency SOS. From there, you can customize the actions you want to take when you press the power button five times quickly.
8- Smart Invert: Smart Invert is a feature that allows you to invert the colors on your screen, making it easier to view in low-light situations. To enable Smart Invert, go to Settings > General > Accessibility > Display Accommodations > Invert Colors > Smart Invert.
9- Guided Access: Guided Access is a feature that allows you to restrict the use of certain apps and features on your iPhone. To enable Guided Access, go to Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access. From there, you can choose which apps and features you want to restrict, and set a passcode to prevent unauthorized access.
10- Control Center Customization: The Control Center is a convenient feature that allows you to quickly access your most frequently used settings and features. To customize the Control Center, go to Settings > Control Center. From there, you can add or remove shortcuts, and rearrange the order in which they appear.
11- Silent Unknown Callers: Tired of getting spam or robocalls? With the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature, your iPhone will automatically send calls from numbers not saved in your contacts straight to voicemail. To enable this feature, go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers.
12- Hide Photos: You can hide photos on your iPhone without deleting them. To do this, select the photo(s) you want to hide, tap the share button, and select “Hide.” The photo(s) will be moved to a hidden album, which can be accessed by going to the Albums tab and scrolling down to “Hidden.”
13- Low Power Mode: When your battery is low, enable “Low Power Mode” to extend your battery life. This feature reduces power consumption by turning off automatic downloads, mail fetch, background app refresh, and other non-essential features. To enable Low Power Mode, go to Settings > Battery > Low Power Mode.
14- Medical ID: You can set up a Medical ID on your iPhone, which provides important health information to first responders in the event of an emergency. To set up a Medical ID, go to the Health app, tap your profile picture, and select “Medical ID.” From there, you can add your medical conditions, allergies, medications, and emergency contacts.
15- Magnifier: The Magnifier feature turns your iPhone’s camera into a magnifying glass, making it easier to read small text or see details up close. To enable Magnifier, go to Settings > Accessibility > Magnifier. Once enabled, you can access the Magnifier by triple-clicking the home button.
16- QR Code Scanning: You can use your iPhone’s camera to scan QR codes without the need for a separate app. Simply open the Camera app, point it at the QR code, and tap the notification that appears at the top of the screen.
17- Custom Vibrations: You can create custom vibrations for different contacts, making it easier to identify who is calling or texting without looking at your phone. To create a custom vibration, go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone > Vibration > Create New Vibration.
18- Screen Recording: You can record your iPhone’s screen with the built-in Screen Recording feature. To enable Screen Recording, go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls. From there, add “Screen Recording” to your Control Center. To start recording, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open Control Center, tap the Screen Recording button, and start recording.
19- Bedtime: The Bedtime feature helps you get a better night’s sleep by setting reminders to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. To set up Bedtime, go to the Clock app, select “Bedtime,” and follow the prompts to set your desired wake-up time, sleep schedule, and reminder preferences.
20- Keyboard Shortcuts: You can create keyboard shortcuts for frequently used phrases or words to save time when typing. To create a keyboard shortcut, go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement. From there, tap the “+” button and enter the phrase and shortcut you want to use.
In conclusion, the iPhone is a powerful device with a wide range of hidden features that can make your life easier. By taking advantage of these features, you can save time, improve your productivity, and enhance your overall user experience. Try out some of these hidden features today and discover what your iPhone can really do!