In today’s digital age, smartphones are equipped with a plethora of features and functions that go beyond making calls, sending texts, or browsing the internet. While most users are familiar with the basic and popular functionalities, there are numerous obscure phone functions and apps that can significantly enhance the smartphone experience. Here’s a look at some of these hidden gems.
Obscure Phone Functions
Hidden Diagnostic Menus
Most smartphones come with hidden diagnostic menus that allow users to test various components of their devices. These menus can be accessed through specific codes entered into the phone dialer.
Android: Enter *#*#4636#*#* to access a menu with detailed information about your phone, battery, usage statistics, and Wi-Fi.
iPhone: Dial *3001#12345#* and press call to open Field Test Mode, which provides in-depth information about your cellular connection and signal strength.
Custom Vibrations
Personalize your notifications by creating custom vibration patterns for different contacts or types of alerts. This function can help you identify who is calling or texting without looking at your phone.
iPhone: Go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone > Vibration > Create New Vibration.
Android: Some models like Samsung Galaxy have this feature in Settings > Sounds and vibration > Vibration pattern.
Back Tap Feature (iPhone)
Introduced in iOS 14, the Back Tap feature allows users to double or triple tap the back of their iPhone to perform various actions, such as taking a screenshot, opening an app, or triggering a shortcut.
How to enable: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap.
Screen Pinning (Android)
Screen Pinning is a security feature that lets you lock your phone to a single app. This is useful when you want to hand your phone to someone else but restrict their access to just one app.
How to enable: Go to Settings > Security > Advanced > Screen pinning.
One-Handed Mode
For those with larger phones, one-handed mode can make it easier to use the device with one hand by shrinking the screen size.
iPhone: Double-tap (not press) the home button to pull the screen down.
Android: Go to Settings > Advanced features > One-handed mode.
Obscure Apps
IFTTT (If This Then That)
IFTTT is an incredibly powerful automation tool that allows users to create custom automations, called “applets,” between different apps and devices. For example, you can set your lights to turn on when you arrive home or automatically save your Instagram photos to Dropbox.
Available on: iOS and Android
Tasker (Android)
Tasker is an advanced automation app that lets you automate almost anything on your Android phone. From setting custom profiles based on location and time to automating daily tasks, Tasker offers endless possibilities for customization.
Available on: Android
Bouncer (Android)
Bouncer allows you to grant temporary permissions to apps. For example, you can give an app access to your location for a short period and then have it automatically revoked. This helps in enhancing privacy and security.
Available on: Android
Shortcuts (iPhone)
The Shortcuts app allows iPhone users to create custom automations and workflows. You can create shortcuts to perform multiple actions with a single tap or voice command using Siri.
Available on: iOS
Forest: Stay Focused
Forest is a unique productivity app that helps you stay focused and avoid phone addiction. When you want to focus, you plant a virtual tree, which grows while you stay off your phone. If you leave the app, the tree dies. Over time, you can grow a whole forest of focused time.
Available on: iOS and Android
Blokada
Blokada is a powerful ad blocker for Android that can also block trackers, enhance privacy, and improve browsing speed by filtering unwanted content before it reaches your apps.
Available on: Android (requires manual download from the official website)
WiFi Analyzer
WiFi Analyzer helps you optimize your Wi-Fi network by providing detailed information about nearby networks. It helps in identifying the least crowded channels and the best placement for your router to ensure optimal signal strength.
Available on: Android
Shazam
While Shazam is widely known for identifying music tracks, many users are unaware of its additional features. Shazam can identify TV shows, movies, and advertisements, providing detailed information about the content.
Available on: iOS and Android
Conclusion
Smartphones are packed with features and functions besides communication and NetBet Casino games that often go unnoticed. Exploring these hidden gems can unlock a new level of convenience, productivity, and enjoyment. Whether it’s through obscure phone functions or lesser-known apps, there’s always something new to discover that can enhance your smartphone experience. So, take some time to dive into your device’s settings and app store—you might be surprised at what you find!
