Top iPhone Tips and Tricks You Might Not Know About
Even if you’re an experienced iPhone user, Apple’s iconic device holds many secrets that can enhance your experience. Here are some of the best-hidden tips and tricks you might not know about, curated by WIRED staff.
Customize Control Center
You can adjust what’s available in the Control Center for quicker access to your most-used features. Go to Settings, tap Control Center, and add or remove items to customize your Control Center.
Use Back Tap
With iOS 14 and later, you can tap the back of your iPhone to perform a variety of tasks like taking a screenshot or opening the Control Center. Enable this by going to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap and choose the action for double-tap and triple-tap.
Master the One-Handed Keyboard
Typing with one hand is easier with the one-handed keyboard. Hold down the globe icon on the keyboard, select the left or right-handed layout, and your keyboard will shift to one side. To reset, tap the arrow on the opposite side.
Use the Measure App
Your iPhone can serve as a tape measure. Open the Measure app and follow the on-screen instructions to measure objects in your environment using augmented reality.
Get Better Panorama Shots
When taking a panorama, if you start on the right side and swipe left, the arrow will adjust. You can switch directions by tapping the arrow before starting the panorama.
Charge Faster in Airplane Mode
Switch your phone to Airplane Mode to speed up charging. This will minimize background processing and wireless usage, allowing for quicker charge times.
Measure Sound Levels
The Health app can monitor sound levels in your environment. With your iPhone or Apple Watch, it measures and records noise levels, providing alerts if the sound exceeds safe levels.
Use Siri for Shortcuts
Siri can create shortcuts for actions you repeat often. Customize Siri Shortcuts by going to Settings > Siri & Search > All Shortcuts and set up your desired actions for quick access through Siri commands.
Scan Documents with Notes
Your iPhone’s Notes app can scan documents. Create a new note and tap the camera icon, then select Scan Documents. Use your camera to capture the document and save it within the app.
Secure Sensitive Photos
Move private photos into the Hidden album. Select the photos, tap the share button, and choose Hide. These photos will be moved to a Hidden album in the Photos app that can be locked with Face ID.
Switch Quickly Between Apps
Use the swipe gesture to switch between apps quickly. Swipe left or right at the very bottom of the screen to move between your open applications with ease.
Optimize Face ID Settings
Improve Face ID accuracy by enabling Require Attention for Face ID in Settings > Face ID & Passcode. This requires you to look directly at your iPhone, enhancing its security and effectiveness.
Use Custom Notifications
Set custom notification sounds for different contacts. Open contacts, select a contact, tap Edit, then tap either ringtone or text tone to choose a unique sound for that contact.
Find Your iPhone’s Warranty
Quickly check your iPhone’s warranty status by going to Settings, tapping General, then About. Your warranty status is displayed under the serial number.
View Battery Health
Monitor your battery’s health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health. This shows the maximum capacity and peak performance capability, helping you understand your battery’s efficiency.
These simple yet effective tips can significantly enhance your iPhone experience. If you have other hidden tricks, share your insights in the comments below!
