Your smartphone is a powerful tool — and chances are, you’re only scratching the surface of what it can do. Beyond calls, texts, and social media, there are hidden features that can save you time, improve your health, and keep your data safe. Most of these features are built right into your phone, but often go unnoticed. Whether you use an iPhone or an Android, learning about these hidden gems can make your experience smoother and smarter.
Let’s dive into the smartphone secrets you’re probably not using — but should.
Did you know that on newer iPhones, you can tap the back of your device to trigger actions? Back Tap lets you double or triple tap the back of your phone to perform custom tasks like opening the camera, turning on the flashlight, or even taking a screenshot. You can set this up in your Accessibility settings under “Touch” and then “Back Tap.” It’s a convenient way to interact with your phone without even touching the screen.
Unlocking your phone every few minutes can get annoying. But Android has a feature called Smart Lock that lets you keep your phone unlocked in trusted situations. You can set it to stay unlocked when you’re at home, connected to your smartwatch, or carrying it in your pocket. It’s easy to set up under Settings > Security > Smart Lock. This feature adds convenience without sacrificing too much security.
Need to show someone how to do something on your phone? Both iPhones and Androids now offer built-in screen recording. You don’t need any third-party apps. Just swipe down to open the control center or quick settings and tap the screen record icon. It’s perfect for tutorials, troubleshooting, or saving online content for later. You can even include audio in the recording if you want to narrate as you go.
Your smartphone can double as a personal health assistant. Both Apple Health and Google Fit track your steps, heart rate, and more. But did you know you can also track menstrual cycles, sleep patterns, and even mindfulness minutes? These tools are free and built into your phone — no extra gadgets needed. Use them to stay on top of your wellness goals.
Tired of spam calls? There’s a feature for that. On iPhones, go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. Android offers similar functionality under Phone > Settings > Blocked numbers. This feature automatically sends calls from unknown numbers straight to voicemail, so you’re only disturbed by people you actually want to hear from. It’s a game changer for peace of mind.
Your phone can be set to automatically turn Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on or off depending on your location or the time of day. Automation apps like Apple's Shortcuts or Android's Rules in the Settings menu can help you create these smart routines. For example, you can have Bluetooth switch off when you’re home to save battery, or Wi-Fi turn off at bedtime. These little tweaks add up to a smoother experience.
Modern phones are big — sometimes too big to use with one hand. But there’s a fix. One-Handed Mode shrinks the screen down so you can reach everything easily with your thumb. On iPhones, just swipe down on the bottom edge (if enabled in settings). On Android, look in Settings > Advanced Features > One-handed mode. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in usability.
You don’t need a separate app to scan QR codes anymore. Both iPhones and Android phones have this feature built right into the camera. Just point your camera at the code, and a link will pop up. It’s faster, safer, and doesn’t clutter your phone with unnecessary apps. Great for menus, payments, and quick links.
Are you spending too much time on your phone? You can check — and fix it. Digital Wellbeing (Android) and Screen Time (iOS) let you monitor and limit how much you use certain apps. You can set app timers, enable focus modes, and even schedule downtime for better sleep. It’s all about creating a healthier relationship with your device.
Your smartphone is more than just a communication tool — it’s a powerful personal assistant packed with features you might not even know about. By exploring these hidden settings, you can enhance your daily experience and get more out of your device. So the next time you’re scrolling through your phone, take a few minutes to explore the settings menu. You might be surprised at what’s already there, waiting to make your life easier.
