Your iPhone is more than just a phone; it’s a pocket-sized powerhouse brimming with hidden features waiting to be unlocked. While millions use iPhones daily, few harness its full potential. Whether you’re a longtime user or a iOS newbie, this post will open your eyes to tricks that save you time, elevate your productivity, and make everyday tasks a breeze.
From customizing your iPhone experience to discovering handy shortcuts, here are ten iPhone tricks you probably haven’t tried—but absolutely should.
1. Customize Your Control Center
Tired of scrolling through apps to access everyday functions? Customize your Control Center for instant access to essentials.
How to do it:
- Go to Settings > Control Center.
- Tap Customize Controls and add features like Voice Memos, Screen Recording, or even the Dark Mode toggle.
Why it’s useful:
With just a swipe down, you can have your most-used functions at your fingertips, saving you time and effort. For example, quickly turn on the flashlight, start a screen recording, or access your smart home devices.
2. Use the Hidden Level in the Measure App
Next time you’re hanging photos or balancing furniture, skip the toolbox. Your iPhone comes with a hidden level tool!
How to do it:
- Open the Measure App (pre-installed on your iPhone).
- Switch to the Level tab by swiping left.
Why it’s useful:
This built-in Level feature is surprisingly precise and extremely handy for small home projects or quick fixes without needing a physical tool.
3. Create Custom Text Replacements
Tired of typing out long phrases or complicated email addresses? Set up custom text replacements and type smarter.
How to do it:
- Go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement.
- Tap the + symbol and create shortcuts like typing “omw” for “On my way!”.
Why it’s useful:
You’ll save time typing repetitive phrases, which can be especially helpful when drafting emails, filling out forms, or texting on the go.
4. Scan Documents with Your iPhone
No scanner? No problem. Your iPhone can turn physical documents into digital files in moments.
How to do it:
- Open the Notes App.
- Tap the Camera Icon and select Scan Documents.
- Position your document within the frame and save it as a PDF.
Why it’s useful:
This feature allows you to store and share documents without bulky equipment. From contracts to receipts, you can digitize everything with ease.
5. Quickly Access the Camera from the Lock Screen
Life moves fast, and so do photo opportunities. Capture spontaneous moments without fumbling to unlock your phone.
How to do it:
- From the lock screen, simply swipe left or press the Camera Icon in the bottom right corner.
Why it’s useful:
Seconds matter when capturing candid moments or fleeting scenes. This shortcut ensures you’ll never miss a shot.
6. Use Siri to Identify Songs
Ever heard an amazing song playing in the background but don’t know the title? Your iPhone’s got you covered.
How to do it:
- Simply ask Siri, “What song is this?” while the music is playing.
- Siri will identify the song using Shazam technology and even provide options to stream it.
Why it’s useful:
You’ll never have to search lyrics online again to find a song, and Siri integrates seamlessly with Apple Music for easy playback.
7. Mute Notifications for Specific Conversations
Group chats blowing up your phone? Silence notifications without leaving the conversation.
How to do it:
- Open the Messages App.
- Swipe left on a conversation thread and tap the Bell Icon to mute alerts.
Why it’s useful:
This simple feature helps declutter your notifications, letting you focus on what’s important without exiting the conversation entirely.
8. Set a Sleep Timer for Music or Podcasts
Love falling asleep to music or podcasts? Avoid draining your battery by setting a sleep timer.
How to do it:
- Open the Clock App.
- Go to the Timer Tab and set the desired amount of time.
- Tap When Timer Ends and select Stop Playing.
Why it’s useful:
This trick prevents auto-play from running all night, preserving both your battery life and mobile data usage.
9. Use AssistiveTouch for Custom Shortcuts
AssistiveTouch isn’t just for accessibility; it’s a customizable shortcut powerhouse.
How to do it:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch.
- Enable AssistiveTouch and customize actions for taps, double-taps, or long presses.
Why it’s useful:
Create shortcuts for frequently-used actions, like taking a screenshot, opening the Notification Center, or locking your screen. It’s a game-changer for efficiency.
10. Optimize Battery Life
Your iPhone battery doesn’t last forever, but these tweaks can help it go the extra mile.
How to do it:
- Enable Low Power Mode under Settings > Battery to reduce background activity.
- Turn off Background App Refresh for apps you don’t use frequently.
- Adjust screen brightness or enable Auto-Brightness.
Why it’s useful:
These simple hacks ensure your device lasts throughout the day and keeps you connected when you need it most.
Try These Tricks Today
Your iPhone is packed with features designed to simplify and enhance your life. From saving time with shortcuts to optimizing your photos or preserving battery life, these tricks can truly elevate your iOS experience.
Why not try one today? You might just discover a new favorite feature that changes the way you use your phone. Got another iPhone trick that’s changed your life? Share it with us in the comments!
