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 10 Hidden Features in Your Smartphone You’re Not Using (But Should)

Smartphones are packed with power, but most of us only scratch the surface. Whether you're team iPhone or Android, there are features buried in the settings or hidden behind gestures that can seriously level up your daily use. Let’s uncover 10 underrated features that might just blow your mind.

1. Back Tap (iPhone) / Gesture Shortcuts (Android)

Double- or triple-tap the back of your phone to trigger actions like opening the camera, taking a screenshot, or launching an app. It’s like a secret button.

> iPhone: Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap

Android: Varies by brand (check gesture settings or install gesture apps)

2. App Lock (Android)

Want to protect apps like WhatsApp or banking apps with a fingerprint? Many Android phones (especially Xiaomi, OnePlus, Samsung) let you lock apps individually.

> Look for “App Lock” in Security settings or use third-party apps like Norton App Lock.

3. Built-in Document Scanner

No need for a separate app—both iPhone and Android can scan documents.

> iPhone: Use the Notes app > Tap camera icon > Scan Documents

Android: Use Google Drive > Tap + > Scan

4. One-Handed Mode

Phones are getting bigger—your thumbs aren’t. Enter one-handed mode to shrink the screen temporarily.

> iPhone: Swipe down on the bottom edge (if enabled in Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Reachability)

Android: Settings > Advanced Features > One-Handed Mode

5. Live Captions (Android)

Automatically get captions for videos or voice messages—even without internet.

> Settings > Sound > Live Caption (Pixel and some newer Android phones)

6. Hidden Photo Albums

Hide sensitive or private photos from the main gallery.

> iPhone: Photos > Select > Share > Hide

Android: Use “Locked Folder” in Google Photos (Settings > Utilities)

7. Wi-Fi Sharing via QR Code

Forget typing in passwords—share your Wi-Fi in seconds.

> iPhone: Bring two Apple devices close; it auto-prompts

Android: Tap your Wi-Fi > Share > Show QR Code

8. Custom Vibration Patterns (iPhone)

Assign different vibration patterns to contacts. You’ll know who’s calling without looking.

> Contacts > Edit > Vibration > Create New Vibration

9. Priority Notifications (Android)

Make sure important apps or people break through Do Not Disturb.

> Settings > Notifications > App Notifications > Set Priority

10. Voice Control Shortcuts (Both)

Set up voice commands to open apps, run tasks, or send messages hands-free.

> iPhone: Use Siri Shortcuts

Android: Use Google Assistant + Routines