New Delhi: Apple’s iPhones are packed with features, many of which go unnoticed by even the most avid users. While most people are familiar with Face ID, Siri, and the camera upgrades, there are several lesser-known functions that can significantly enhance your daily experience.
Here are five iPhone features you might have missed, but that could make life much simpler.
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1. Back Tap: A Hidden Shortcut
Introduced in iOS 14, the Back Tap feature allows users to perform actions by simply tapping the back of their iPhone. You can set double or triple taps to trigger functions such as taking a screenshot, opening Control Center, or even launching an app.
This accessibility-focused feature is useful for quickly executing commands without navigating menus. To activate it, go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap.
2. Live Text: Copy Text From Photos
iPhones running iOS 15 and above include the Live Text feature, which uses on-device intelligence to recognize text in photos and screenshots. You can copy, paste, look up, or translate text directly from images.
For example, if you snap a photo of a handwritten note or a signboard, you can instantly extract and use the text- a time-saving tool for students, professionals, and travelers alike.
3. Sound Recognition: Safety and Accessibility
For users who are hard of hearing or want extra safety features, Sound Recognition is a lifesaver. This feature alerts you to specific sounds such as a doorbell, baby crying, or a smoke alarm.
Once activated under Settings > Accessibility > Sound Recognition, the iPhone continuously listens for chosen sounds and notifies you when they are detected, providing peace of mind in everyday life.
4. Hidden Album in Photos
Many iPhone users are unaware of the Hidden Album in the Photos app, which allows you to hide sensitive or private images. With iOS 14 and later, you can also lock the Hidden Album with Face ID or Touch ID.
This provides an added layer of privacy and ensures that your personal photos aren’t visible in the main gallery or Memories feed. Activate it under Settings > Photos > Hidden Album.
5. Custom Focus Modes
While Do Not Disturb is widely known, iOS 15 introduced Focus Modes, which allow users to create custom notification and home screen setups based on context, such as Work, Sleep, or Personal time.
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This helps reduce distractions by showing only relevant apps and contacts. Users can set these modes to activate automatically based on location or time of day, streamlining productivity and improving work-life balance.
Conclusion
iPhones offer more than just a sleek design and powerful camera hidden features like Back Tap, Live Text, Sound Recognition, Hidden Album, and Custom Focus Modes can make everyday tasks faster, safer, and more convenient.
Exploring these underused functions can transform how you interact with your device, enhancing both productivity and privacy.