10 little-known smartphone features that will definitely surprise you

Smartphones have become a part of our lives, but even those who have been using them for years are unaware of many hidden features. They not only make using the device easier, but also add new capabilities. We have collected 10 useful and little-known features that are worth trying.

1. Scanning documents

Your smartphone can replace a scanner. On iPhone, this is available through the «Notes» app: open a note, tap the camera icon, and select «Scan documents». On Android, a similar function is built into Google Drive. The quality of the scans is high enough to replace an office scanner.

2. Measuring objects

You can use the camera to measure objects. On the iPhone, the «Measure» app is used for this. It helps to measure distances in real time. Android has third-party apps like AR Ruler that work with augmented reality.

3. Magnifying Glass

iPhone can act as a magnifying glass. Turn on Magnifier in Settings (Settings > Accessibility). Then triple-click the power button to activate it. On Android, a similar function can be found in the “Universal Access” section.

4. Recognize music in one click

The iPhone has a built-in music recognition function via Shazam. Just add it to «Control Center» and turn it on when you need to know the name of a song. On Android, you can use the Google Assistant widget to recognize music.

5. Hidden commands for voice assistants

Both devices have advanced voice assistants. For example:

• Siri on iPhone can make a to-do list or read your latest messages.
• Google Assistant can launch apps, turn on modes, or tell jokes.

Try the commands: What's on the screen? or «Show my vacation photos».

6. Personal vibrations for contacts

On iPhone, you can set unique vibrations for each contact. Go to «Contacts», select the person, tap «Edit», then «Ringtone→ «Vibration». On Android, you can set unique notification sounds for different contacts.

7. Secret charging mode

Smartphones charge faster if you put them in «Airplane mode». This turns off all wireless connections, reducing power consumption. This is useful if you have little time to load.

8. Hidden gestures for control

• On iPhone: Swipe up from the bottom with a pause to open multitasking, and swipe right to switch between recent apps.
• On Android: Triple-tap the screen to zoom in (if Accessibility is turned on).

9. Smartphone control eyes

On Android, eye control is available in the Accessibility settings. It allows you to open apps or perform actions by tracking your eye movements. iPhone has Voice Control, which controls the device using voice commands.

10. Backing up data on a schedule

On iPhone, iCloud backup can be set up automatically. Check your iCloud settings to avoid losing important data. On Android, you can set up automatic backups of applications, contacts, and photos in Google Drive.

Conclusion

These functions can simplify everyday life and make working with a smartphone more comfortable. Try enabling at least one of them and you will feel the difference. A smartphone is not only calls and instant messengers, but also a powerful tool with huge potential!