Mobile technology continually evolves, providing us with new tools and features that improve our everyday lives. Both Android and iOS operating systems are packed with numerous hidden features that can enhance the user experience even further. However, many of these features remain unknown to average users.
In this article, we will uncover ten hidden Android and iOS features you probably didn’t know about. These surprising functionalities can help you get more out of your device, whether it’s an Apple iPhone or a smartphone running on Google’s Android OS.
Hidden Features in Android
1. Screen Pinning
Ever wanted to lend your phone to a friend without worrying they might snoop around your other apps? The Screen Pinning feature allows you to pin a particular app or screen so that the user cannot navigate away from it unless they know how.
To activate this feature:
Go to Settings -> Security -> Advanced -> Screen Pinning
Activate the toggle switch.
Open any app that you want to pin.
Tap on the Overview button (square or recent button).
Tap on the icon at the top of app cards and select ‘Pin’.
2. Developer Options
Enabling Developer Options opens up a whole new world of settings aimed at developers but also beneficial for advanced users who want more control over their devices.
To access Developer Options:
Go into Settings.
Scroll down until you find About Phone.
Scroll down until you see Build Number.
Tap seven times on Build Number until a message pops up saying “You are now a developer!”
3. Instant Apps
Google Play Instant Apps allows users to try out apps without actually installing them onto their devices—a great feature for those who want to save storage space on their devices.
To use Instant Apps:
Go to Google Play Store.
Search for an app that supports the Instant App feature.
Tap “Try Now” instead of “Install”.
4. Split-Screen Mode
Split-screen mode allows you to use two apps simultaneously—a handy feature when you need to multitask.
Here’s how to enable it:
Open the first app that you want in split-screen mode.
Press and hold the Overview button.
The screen will split in two, and your first app will occupy the top half of your screen.
Open the second app that you want from your recent apps list or home screen.
Hidden Features in iOS
Apple’s iOS is renowned for its intuitiveness and ease of use. However, there are several hidden features tucked away beneath its sleek surface.
1. Custom Text Replacements
With this feature, users can create custom text replacements or shortcuts—for example, typing ‘omw’ can auto-correct into ‘on my way’.
To create a custom text replacement:
Go into Settings -> General -> Keyboard -> Text Replacement
Tap ‘+’
Enter a phrase and shortcut then tap Save
2. Siri Shortcuts
Siri Shortcuts allow users to automate tasks with just one command—great for improving productivity!
To set up Siri Shortcuts:
Go into Settings -> Siri & Search
Choose Add Shortcut
3. Dark Mode Scheduling
Did you know that you could schedule when your iPhone switches between light and dark mode?
Here’s how:
Head over to Settings -> Display & Brightness
Toggle Automatic On
Set Options as Sunset-to-sunrise or Custom Schedule
4. Scan Documents in the Notes App
This powerful tool allows users to scan documents directly from their Notes App—an extremely convenient feature!
Here’s how to use it:
Open the Notes app and create a new note
Tap the camera icon and choose Scan Documents
Position your document in view of the camera, then tap Save
FAQs
1. Are these features available on all Android/iOS devices?
Yes, these features should be available on most modern Android/iOS devices.
2. Can I turn off developer options once I have it enabled on my Android device?
Yes, you can easily disable Developer Options by going back into Settings and sliding off the toggle switch.
3. Is there any risk involved in using Developer Options on my Android device?
While Developer Options provides many useful functionalities, some settings might affect your device’s performance if improperly used. Therefore, only tweak settings that you understand or have researched thoroughly.
4. Why can’t I find a certain feature mentioned here on my iOS/Android device?
The availability of these features may differ based on your specific model or OS version. Always ensure that your software is up to date for maximum functionality.
5. Do Instant Apps consume data when used over mobile networks?
Yes, using Google Play Instant Apps over mobile networks will consume data just like any other app would.
Conclusion
This article has unlocked several secret Android and iOS features that are often overlooked but incredibly useful—Screen Pinning for increased privacy; Developer Options for advanced control; Instant Apps for saving storage space; Split-Screen Mode for multitasking; Custom Text Replacements and Siri Shortcuts for convenience; Dark Mode Scheduling to ease digital eye strain; Document scanning directly from Notes App—the list goes on!
So next time you pick up your phone, remember: there’s more than meets the eye! Delve deeper into its hidden capabilities—you might just discover a feature that makes life with technology even more effortless!
