10 Hidden Features in Your Smartphone You Didn’t Know About

Smartphones are packed with features, but not all of them are immediately obvious. Many smartphones come with hidden features that can enhance your daily experience and productivity. Here are 10 hidden features in your smartphone that you may not have discovered yet.

1. Split-Screen Multitasking

Multitasking has never been easier. Split-screen multitasking allows you to view two apps simultaneously, improving productivity and ease of access.

How to enable it: For Android users, open the multitasking view (recent apps) and drag an app to the top or bottom pane. For iPhone users, you can utilize Slide Over or Split View on iPads or apps that support multitasking.

2. Gesture Controls

Many smartphones come with hidden gesture navigation options to make using your device faster and more intuitive. Instead of relying on physical buttons, you can swipe to navigate.

How to enable it: Go to Settings > Navigation Gestures to set up swipes for actions like going back, opening the home screen, or switching apps.

3. Smart Lock

Smart Lock allows you to keep your phone unlocked when it’s in a trusted location, connected to a trusted Bluetooth device, or near your own trusted signals.

How to enable it: Navigate to Settings > Security > Smart Lock (on Android devices).

4. Hidden App Menus and Shortcuts

Most smartphones have a variety of shortcuts buried within their app icons. Press and hold on app icons to discover quick actions and settings.

Example: Long-press on the Camera app to access options like “Take Photo” or “Record Video” directly without opening the app fully.

5. Adjust Display Brightness with Adaptive Options

Adaptive brightness adjusts your screen brightness based on your surroundings and usage patterns, saving battery and optimizing visibility.

How to enable it: Go to Settings > Display > Adaptive Brightness.

6. Take a Screenshot with Gesture Commands

Many smartphones now allow you to take a screenshot by performing simple gestures like swiping the screen with your hand.

How to enable it: Check in Settings > Gestures or Motion Settings to activate “Palm Swipe to Capture” or similar options.

7. QR Code Scanning from the Camera

You don’t need a separate app for QR code scanning. Most modern smartphones can scan QR codes directly with their default camera apps.

How to use it: Open your camera app and point it at a QR code. A popup should appear with the scanned link or information.

8. One-Handed Mode for Larger Devices

If you have a large phone, one-handed mode allows you to reduce the screen size for easier navigation with one hand.

How to enable it: Go to Settings > Display > One-Handed Mode (on many Android devices).

9. Developer Options - Unlock Hidden Settings

Developer options include features like USB debugging, animations, and more, which are hidden by default but can enhance your smartphone experience.

How to enable it: Go to Settings > About Phone, then tap the build number 7 times until Developer Options appear in the main settings menu.

10. Night Mode / Dark Mode

Dark mode not only saves battery life on OLED screens but is also easier on the eyes during the night. It turns the UI and background elements into darker colors.

How to enable it: Navigate to Settings > Display > Dark Mode or Night Mode, depending on your phone.

Conclusion

Your smartphone is much more than just a device for calls and apps. Hidden features like gesture controls, smart lock options, and adaptive brightness can improve your daily usage and make your phone smarter. Explore these features to enhance your smartphone experience.