Your smartphone is far more powerful than you probably realize. While most people stick to texting, calling, scrolling, and taking photos, your phone is hiding a treasure trove of features that can simplify your life, boost productivity, and impress your friends. Here are some of the most mind-blowing hidden features built into modern smartphones—and how you can start using them today.
Back Tap Shortcuts
If you’re using a newer iPhone or Android device, you might not know that a simple tap on the back of your phone can launch apps or perform shortcuts. With a double- or triple-tap, you can take a screenshot, open your camera, turn on the flashlight, or even launch a custom automation.
It feels like magic once you get it set up. On iPhones, this feature lives in the Accessibility settings under “Touch.” On Android, it’s available on some models like the Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones through advanced gesture options.
Camera To Translate Text Instantly
Instead of typing out foreign text or using a translation app manually, your phone’s camera can do the work in real-time. Just open your camera, point it at a sign, menu, or document in another language, and watch as it’s instantly translated on your screen.
iPhones use this feature through the Live Text function in the camera, and Android phones tap into Google Lens. It’s an incredible tool for travel, work, or decoding complex documents in seconds.
Hidden Trackers and Tags To Increase Productivity
Modern phones quietly track your movements and app activity to offer “helpful” suggestions, but this data can be managed or even used to your benefit. On iPhones, the Significant Locations feature keeps tabs on places you visit most—great for seeing your habits, but also eye-opening to review.
On Android, the Digital Wellbeing dashboard reveals just how much time you’re really spending on social media, and can even nudge you to unplug more often.
Built-In Document Scanner
No more searching for a scanner or heading to a print shop. Your phone can scan documents with surprising clarity—just using the camera. On iPhones, open the Notes app, start a new note, and tap the camera icon to scan documents. Android users can do the same with Google Drive by tapping the “+” button and selecting “Scan.” The resulting PDFs are crisp, clean, and easy to share or store.
One-Handed Mode
As phone screens have grown, one-handed use has become more difficult—but both iOS and Android have hidden features to fix that. iPhones have a Reachability mode that brings the top of the screen lower with a simple swipe.
Android phones like Samsung and Pixel offer one-handed modes that shrink the entire screen temporarily. If you’ve ever dropped your phone trying to reach the top corner, this feature is a game-changer.
Audio Recognition
Did you know your phone can alert you to things you might not hear? iPhones have a feature called Sound Recognition that can notify you when a baby cries, a dog barks, or a doorbell rings—even when you’re wearing headphones.
It’s designed for accessibility, but it’s helpful for just about anyone in a noisy or distracted environment. Android phones offer a similar option in the accessibility settings with live transcribe and sound notifications.
Phone As Tape Measure
Forget rummaging through your toolbox—your phone can be a precise measuring device. iPhones have a built-in Measure app that uses augmented reality to measure objects and even check if surfaces are level.
Android users can download Google’s Measure app or use third-party AR tools that perform the same tasks. It’s surprisingly accurate and incredibly useful when you’re hanging frames, installing shelves, or doing DIY projects around the house.
Control Your Entire Smart Home
If your phone feels like it’s only good for apps and calls, think again. With built-in smart home integration, you can control lights, thermostats, cameras, and even your coffee maker. iPhone users have access to the Home app powered by HomeKit, while Android users use Google Home. You can dim the lights, start a playlist, or check who’s at your front door—all with a tap or voice command.
