Do you think you know everything about your iPhone? Think again. Apple packs a ton of hidden features into every iOS update, and many of them fly under the radar.
Whether you’re a casual user or a seasoned iPhone pro, these 18 clever tips and tricks will help you unlock even more from your device.
Here are 18 things you probably didn’t know your iPhone could do
1. Identify Plants or Animals from Photos
Snap a picture, tap the Info button, and if your iPhone recognizes it, a starry icon will appear. Tap it to learn more about the plant or animal.
2. Turn Your iPhone into a White Noise Machine
Go to Settings > Accessibility > Audio & Visual > Background Sounds and choose calming options like Ocean or Rain—perfect for relaxation or putting babies to sleep.
3. Ask Siri to Read Web Pages Aloud
In Safari, say “Read this” or “I want to listen to this page.” You can also tap the Page Settings button and select Listen to Page.
4. Schedule Text Messages
Avoid late-night sends by tapping the + icon beside your message and selecting Send Later to schedule your text for a specific date and time.
5. Lock Private Safari Tabs with Face ID
Enable Require Face ID to Unlock Private Browsing in Settings > Safari to keep prying eyes out of your browsing history.
6. Create Custom Voice-Controlled Gestures
Set up actions you can trigger with a spoken command via Settings > Accessibility > Voice Control > Commands > Create New Command.
7. Remove Backgrounds from Photos Instantly
In the Files app, tap and hold a picture, go to Quick Actions, then hit Remove Background for easy editing.
8. Select All with Two Fingers
In apps like Messages or Notes, swipe down with two fingers to quickly select multiple items at once.
9. Copy or Translate Text with Your Camera
Open the Camera, point at text, then tap the icon with three lines in a square. You can copy, translate, or share it instantly.
10. Decode Laundry-Care Symbols
Snap a pic of clothing tags and tap the Info button, then select Look Up Laundry Care to find out what each symbol means.
11. Face ID Lock for Individual Apps
Long press any app and select Require Face ID to lock it—ideal for keeping kids or snoopers out.
12. Use Guided Access to Lock into One App
Enable Guided Access in Settings > Accessibility to prevent anyone (like a child) from switching to other apps while using your phone.
13. Snap Photos Faster with Camera Shortcuts
From the lock screen, swipe left to open the Camera. Use the volume button to take photos or hold it for videos. Swipe the shutter for burst mode.
14. Limit Screen Time on Addictive Apps
In Settings > Screen Time > App Limits, set daily limits for time-wasting apps. You can customize by day if needed.
15. Move Multiple Apps at Once
In Edit Home Screen mode, drag one app, then tap others to move them all together to another page.
16. Share Wi-Fi with a QR Code
Go to the Passwords app, select your Wi-Fi network, and tap Show Network QR Code—great for Android users or large groups.
@ The Nation
