Smartphones have become an essential part of our daily lives, but most users only scratch the surface of their device’s full potential. Hidden within your phone are features that can improve productivity, enhance security, and make daily tasks easier. In this blog post, we’ll explore 7 hidden smartphone functionalities you might not know about.
1. Customizable Shortcuts
Did you know that you can customize shortcuts for your most frequently used apps? On both Android and iOS devices, users can add widgets or customize their home screens with one-tap shortcuts to apps and settings, saving valuable time.
How to Use:
- Android: Press and hold the home screen > Select “Widgets” > Choose apps or shortcuts.
- iOS: Press and hold on an app > Tap “Add to Home Screen.”
2. Back Tap (iPhone)
The back tap feature allows you to perform actions like taking screenshots, launching apps, or even locking your phone by tapping the back of your iPhone. This lesser-known accessibility feature can streamline common tasks.
How to Use:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap and choose your preferred action for double or triple tap.
3. Screen Pinning (Android)
If you’ve ever handed your phone to someone and worried they’d snoop around, screen pinning is for you. This feature lets you lock an app on the screen, preventing users from navigating out of it without your consent.
How to Use:
- Go to Settings > Security > Advanced > Screen Pinning to enable it, then pin the app you want to lock in place.
4. Built-in QR Code Scanner
You no longer need to download a third-party QR code scanner app. Both Android and iOS devices come with built-in QR scanning capabilities via the camera.
How to Use:
- Simply open your phone’s camera and point it at the QR code. A notification will appear to guide you to the corresponding link.
5. One-Handed Mode
For users of larger phones, navigating the screen with one hand can be difficult. Both Android and iOS have one-handed modes to make it easier to reach all parts of the screen with just one hand.
How to Use:
- Android: Go to Settings > Advanced Features > One-Handed Mode to enable.
- iOS: Enable Reachability under Settings > Accessibility.
6. Offline Maps
Need navigation but don’t have reliable internet access? You can download offline maps on both Google Maps and Apple Maps to ensure you always have access to directions, even in remote areas.
How to Use:
- Open Google Maps or Apple Maps, search for the area, and choose Download for offline access.
7. Hidden Game Easter Eggs
Many Android devices come with hidden games built into the operating system, especially in older versions of Android like Lollipop and Marshmallow. These are fun and quirky features that most users aren’t aware of.
How to Access:
- Go to Settings > About Phone, tap multiple times on Android Version, and you’ll see a surprise Easter egg.
Conclusion
Your smartphone is packed with features that can improve your overall experience. Whether you want to speed up daily tasks or increase security, these hidden functionalities are designed to make your smartphone usage more efficient and enjoyable.