📱 10 Hidden Phone Tricks That’ll Make Your Life Way Easier (Android & iPhone)

Portuguese version: Essas 10 funções escondidas do seu celular vão te surpreender

We all use our smartphones every day — but most of us are barely scratching the surface of what they can actually do. From secret shortcuts to built-in tools you didn’t even know existed, your phone is packed with features that can save time, boost productivity, and simplify your life.

Here are 10 hidden tricks you’ll wish you had discovered sooner. Whether you’re team Android or iPhone, these tips are for you.

1. 📸 Take Photos While Recording Video

Available on: Android & iOS
Next time you’re filming a video and want to snap a photo at the same time, just tap the camera icon next to the record button. You’ll get the shot — without interrupting the video.
Perfect for: Kids, pets, or anything fast-moving you don’t want to miss.

🖼️ Suggested image: camera screen showing both buttons (video + photo)

2. 🧭 Use Your Phone as a Level

Available on: iOS (built-in), Android (via app)
On iPhones, open the “Measure” app — it has a hidden level tool to check surfaces.
On Android, download apps like 🔗 Bubble Level or Level With Voice to get the same function.
Perfect for: Hanging shelves or pictures without guessing.

3. 🎙️ Have Your Messages Read Out Loud

You don’t need to stop what you’re doing to check texts.
Just say “Hey Siri, read my messages” or “Hey Google, read my messages” and your phone will take care of it.
Great while driving or multitasking.

🖼️ Suggested image: voice assistant reading a message

4. 🚨 Emergency Mode With Lockdown

In an emergency, your phone can call 911 and disable Face ID or fingerprint unlock.

• iPhone: Press and hold the side button + volume button.
• Android: Go to Settings > Security > Emergency SOS (Android 9+).
  Helpful if you need to act fast or stay secure.

5. 🛡️ Lock People Into a Single App When Lending Your Phone

Want to lend your phone but keep people out of your messages and photos?

• iPhone: Use Guided Access.
• Android: Use Screen Pinning to lock the screen to one app only.
  Pro move: Perfect for letting kids watch YouTube without exploring your phone.

🖼️ Suggested image: screenshot of accessibility settings

6. 🔔 Get Flash Alerts for Notifications

In silent mode but still want to notice alerts?
You can set your phone to blink the LED flash when messages or calls come in.

• iPhone: Settings > Accessibility > LED Flash for Alerts
• Samsung: Settings > Accessibility > Hearing > Flash Notification

7. ⌨️ Create Shortcuts and Type Faster on iPhone

Go to Settings > General > Keyboard to:

• Create custom text shortcuts (e.g., type “omw” and it becomes “On my way!”)
• Move the cursor like a laptop trackpad
• Shake to undo typing — yes, that’s a thing!

8. 🧘 Use Focus or Bedtime Mode to Block Distractions

Both Android and iPhone let you schedule quiet time with Focus Mode or Bedtime Mode.
They silence notifications and block distracting apps so you can work, sleep, or relax without interruptions.
Total game-changer for your peace of mind.

🖼️ Suggested image: Focus Mode or Digital Wellbeing screen active

9. 🔐 Turn On Guest Mode (Android Only)

Handing your phone to someone but don’t want them snooping around?
Turn on Guest Mode:
Settings > System > Multiple Users > Add Guest
It gives access to basic functions without your personal stuff.

10. 🎮 Control Your TV With Your Phone

Your phone can double as a universal remote.

• Android TV: Use the Google TV Remote app
• Apple TV: Use the 🔗app Apple TV Remote
• Also check out AnyMote or Universal TV Remote apps

Final Thoughts

Your smartphone is so much more powerful than you think. With just a few of these tricks, you can make everyday tasks faster, safer, and way more convenient.

Try them out and share this with that friend who lives on their phone — but barely knows what it can do. 😉