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iphone settings and features you didn t Apple continues to enhance the iPhone experience with subtle yet impactful features that often go unnoticed by users. These enhancements, introduced with each software update, can significantly improve daily usability and efficiency. Below are 15 lesser-known settings and features that every iPhone owner should explore to maximize their device’s potential.

iphone settings and features you didn t

1. Back Tap

Introduced in iOS 14, the Back Tap feature allows users to perform actions by tapping the back of their iPhone. This can be particularly useful for shortcuts or accessibility features. Users can set it up by navigating to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap. Options include double or triple taps to trigger various functions, such as taking a screenshot, launching an app, or even activating Siri.

2. Hidden Trackpad

Typing on an iPhone can sometimes be cumbersome, especially for lengthy messages. However, iOS includes a hidden trackpad feature that allows users to move the cursor more precisely. To activate it, press and hold the spacebar on the keyboard. The keyboard will turn into a trackpad, enabling users to navigate through text with ease.

3. Customizable Control Center

The Control Center is a hub for quick access to essential settings and features. Users can customize it by going to Settings > Control Center. Here, you can add or remove controls, rearranging them to suit your preferences. This feature allows for quicker access to frequently used settings like screen recording, low power mode, or even home automation controls.

4. Focus Modes

Focus modes, introduced in iOS 15, help users minimize distractions by filtering notifications based on their current activity. Users can create custom Focus modes for work, personal time, or sleep. To set this up, go to Settings > Focus. Each mode can be tailored to allow notifications only from specific apps or contacts, ensuring that you remain undisturbed during important tasks.

5. App Library

The App Library, launched with iOS 14, automatically organizes apps into categories, making it easier to find what you need without scrolling through multiple home screens. Users can access it by swiping left past the last home screen. This feature is particularly beneficial for those with numerous apps, as it declutters the home screen and enhances navigation.

6. Live Text

Live Text, introduced in iOS 15, allows users to interact with text in photos. By simply tapping on text within an image, users can copy, paste, or look up information. This feature is useful for quickly saving contact information from business cards or extracting text from documents. To use Live Text, simply open the Camera app or Photos app and tap on the text in the image.

7. Privacy Report

With increasing concerns about privacy, Apple has integrated a Privacy Report feature in Safari that provides insights into how websites track users. To access it, navigate to Settings > Safari > Privacy Report. This report details the trackers that have been blocked and offers transparency regarding data collection practices, empowering users to make informed decisions about their online activities.

8. Sound Recognition

Sound Recognition is an accessibility feature that alerts users to specific sounds, such as doorbells or alarms. This can be particularly beneficial for those with hearing impairments. To enable it, go to Settings > Accessibility > Sound Recognition. Once activated, the iPhone will listen for certain sounds and send notifications when they are detected, enhancing the user’s awareness of their environment.

9. Siri Shortcuts

Siri Shortcuts allow users to automate tasks and create personalized voice commands. This feature can be accessed through the Shortcuts app, where users can set up routines for daily activities. For example, you can create a shortcut to send a message when you arrive at a specific location or to play your favorite playlist with a simple voice command. This not only saves time but also streamlines daily routines.

10. Health App Features

The Health app is more than just a step counter; it offers a plethora of features to monitor overall well-being. Users can track sleep patterns, manage medications, and even log symptoms. To access these features, open the Health app and explore the various categories. The app can also integrate data from third-party fitness devices, providing a comprehensive view of your health metrics.

11. Screen Time Management

Screen Time is a feature that helps users monitor and manage their device usage. By going to Settings > Screen Time, users can set limits on app usage, schedule downtime, and view detailed reports on how much time is spent on various apps. This can be particularly useful for parents looking to manage their children’s device usage or for individuals aiming to reduce their screen time.

12. Quick Note

Quick Note is a feature that allows users to jot down notes quickly without navigating away from their current app. To access it, swipe from the bottom right corner of the screen. This feature is especially useful for capturing ideas or reminders on the go, enhancing productivity by ensuring that important thoughts are not lost.

13. Emergency SOS

The Emergency SOS feature provides a quick way to call for help in urgent situations. By pressing the side button five times in quick succession, users can initiate a call to emergency services. This feature can be configured to also send a message with your location to emergency contacts. To set it up, go to Settings > Emergency SOS. This can be a lifesaver in critical situations, ensuring that help is just a button press away.

14. Find My Network

The Find My network allows users to locate lost devices even when they are offline. This feature utilizes Bluetooth signals from other Apple devices to help pinpoint the location of lost items. To enable it, go to Settings > [your name] > Find My. This feature is particularly useful for those who frequently misplace their devices, providing peace of mind knowing that they can be tracked even when not connected to Wi-Fi.

15. Visual Lookup

Visual Lookup is a feature that allows users to gather information about objects in photos. By tapping on an image in the Photos app, users can identify landmarks, plants, and animals. This feature enhances the user experience by providing context and information about the world around them. To use Visual Lookup, simply tap the info button on a photo that contains identifiable objects.

Conclusion

As Apple continues to innovate and enhance the iPhone experience, many features and settings remain hidden from the average user. By exploring these 15 lesser-known functionalities, iPhone owners can significantly improve their daily interactions with their devices. From productivity enhancements to privacy features, these settings offer a wealth of opportunities to customize and optimize the iPhone experience.

Source: Original report