ost of us use our phones for the basics: calls, texts, Instagram, maybe a podcast on the commute. But tucked inside every modern smartphone are features that can save time, protect your safety, and make everyday life smoother.
Whether you’re team iPhone or Android, here are 10 underrated tools already sitting in your pocket.
Smarter screenshots and screen recording
Screenshots have come a long way. Both iOS and Android now let you capture an entire webpage or long chat thread in one clean image with scrolling screenshots.
Need to record your screen? There’s a built-in screen recorder that’s brilliant for sharing bugs with IT, recording tutorials for mates, or saving content you can’t download.
Focus modes and digital wellbeing tools
Constant notifications are productivity killers. Both iPhone and Android offer Focus modes or Digital Wellbeing profiles that let you filter distractions.
Set up profiles for work, sleep, or downtime, and your phone will only buzz for what matters. It’s like Do Not Disturb, but smarter — giving you balance without fully switching off.
One-handed and accessibility shortcuts
Big screens are great for Netflix, less so for thumb reach. Enter one-handed mode: shrink your display with a quick gesture so you can tap everything without stretching.
iPhone’s Back Tap lets you double- or triple-tap the back of your device to trigger shortcuts like opening the camera or taking a screenshot. Android has similar gesture settings that save a surprising amount of time.
Live text and smart copy
Snapping notes has never been easier. With iPhone’s Live Text, you can copy text straight out of a photo — think recipes from a cookbook, notes on a whiteboard, or a street sign when travelling.
On Android, Google Lens does the same, with bonus translation and instant search. It’s like a pocket scanner meets interpreter.
Built-in document scanner
No need for clunky third-party apps. Your phone already has a document scanner baked in.
On iPhone, it lives in the Notes app. On Android, you’ll find it in Google Drive or sometimes straight in the camera. It’s perfect for receipts, contracts, or IDs when you need a quick scan.
Emergency and safety features
Hidden but powerful, SOS shortcuts can be literal lifesavers. On most phones, pressing the side button five times will dial emergency services automatically.
You can also set up Medical ID info (allergies, conditions, emergency contacts) that first responders can access even from a locked screen. Worth the two minutes it takes to set up.
Hidden camera tricks
Your camera has more to give than just point and shoot. A few clever shortcuts:
- Burst mode: Hold down the shutter button for rapid-fire shots.
- Quick video: On iPhone, swipe to video and hold the shutter; on Android, check your camera gestures.
- Gridlines: Switch them on for better composition instantly.
These tweaks are especially handy when photographing kids, pets, or fast action.
Wireless sharing you forgot about
Messaging apps compress your images, and emailing files is clunky. Instead, try AirDrop (iPhone) or Nearby Share/Quick Share (Android).
They move big files instantly between devices — no cables, no cloud, no quality loss. Once you get into the habit, you’ll never go back.
Battery optimisation tools
Phones now come with smart settings to protect battery health long-term. On iPhone, Optimised Battery Charging learns your routine to prevent overcharging. On Android, Adaptive Battery limits power for apps you rarely use.
Switch on Low Power Mode when you’re running low and you’ll squeeze out hours of extra life without carrying a charger.
Custom automation shortcuts
This is where your phone gets truly clever. iPhone’s Shortcuts app and Android’s Routines let you automate everyday tasks:
- Text your ETA automatically when you leave work.
- Play Spotify the moment your headphones connect.
- Open Maps every time you hop in the car.
Set it once, and your phone does the legwork for you.
Final thoughts
Most of these features take less than a minute to set up — and once you do, you’ll wonder how you managed without them.
Start small. Pick one or two features this week, whether it’s smarter screenshots or a new Focus mode, and see how much smoother your digital life feels.
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