Smartphones have become an extension of ourselves. We use them to check social media, take photos, and binge-watch shows—but believe it or not, they can do so much more! While you’re probably familiar with the basic features, there are some quirky, cool, and downright genius tricks that your phone has up its sleeve.
Here are 10 things you didn’t know you could do with your smartphone. Prepare to impress yourself and your friends with these hidden gems!
1. Measure Anything with Your Camera
Need to measure something but don’t have a tape measure handy? Your smartphone can step in! Most newer phones have an AR (augmented reality) measuring tool built into the camera. Whether you’re checking if that new piece of furniture will fit or seeing how tall your friend really is, the measuring app is your new best friend. iPhones have the built-in “Measure” app, and Android users can use “Google Measure.” It’s surprisingly accurate and way more fun than your old tape measure.
2. Use Your Phone as a Level
Trying to hang a picture but can’t find your level? Don’t worry—your smartphone has one! This might sound too simple to be true, but both iPhones and Androids come with a built-in leveling tool that uses the phone’s gyroscope. On iPhones, it’s hidden within the Measure app, while Android users can find it through the “Google” search app or a third-party option. Place your phone on a surface to ensure it’s perfectly flat or use it to line up picture frames.
3. Create a Personal Light Show
Ever wanted to DJ your own party and create the lighting? There are apps that turn your smartphone into a light show synchronized with your music! Apps like “Mouzei” or “Music Strobe Light” use your camera flash to pulse in time with the beats. For those impromptu dance parties or chill nights, your phone can take on the role of DJ and lighting technician. Just don’t forget to invite your friends!
4. Scan and Sign Documents (Like a Pro)
Gone are the days when you needed a bulky scanner to send signed documents. Your smartphone can now handle all that with ease. Apps like “Adobe Scan” or the built-in Notes app on iPhones allow you to scan documents with your phone’s camera and convert them into PDFs. Need to add your signature? You can sign directly on the document using your touchscreen, and voilà—no printer, no problem!
5. Set Up a Custom Routine with Your Voice Assistant
Whether you’re using Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa, did you know you can customize them to handle specific daily routines? For example, if you say “Hey Google, good morning,” it can turn on your lights, give you the weather, tell you about your schedule, and start playing your favorite podcast. You can set up a custom command to do anything from starting your workout playlist to dimming the lights for movie night—all hands-free.
6. Turn Your Phone into a Remote Control
Lost your TV remote again? Before you tear apart the couch, check your smartphone! Many smart TVs and streaming devices can be controlled through apps. Whether you have an Apple TV, Roku, or even certain smart home systems, your smartphone can be used as a universal remote. There’s even a “Google Home” app for Android users that connects to Chromecast and Nest devices, making it the ultimate multitasker.
7. Share Your Wi-Fi Password via QR Code
You know that awkward moment when someone asks for your Wi-Fi password, and you realize you have no idea what it is? Your smartphone can save you from that. Both iPhones and Androids allow you to share your Wi-Fi details via QR code. Just go to your Wi-Fi settings, tap on the network you’re connected to, and you’ll have the option to generate a shareable QR code. Your friends can then scan it with their phones and instantly connect. Easy peasy.
8. Magnify Text and Objects
For anyone who struggles to read tiny text or examine something up close, your smartphone’s camera has a magnifying glass mode. On iPhones, this feature is hidden in the Accessibility settings under “Magnifier.” Androids have similar options under “Accessibility” or via apps like “Magnifying Glass + Flashlight.” Whether you’re reading small print or need a closer look at something, this feature is super handy (and easy on the eyes).
9. Identify Songs Instantly
Ever been in a situation where a song comes on, and you just have to know what it is? You could scramble to open Shazam—or you could just ask your phone directly. Both Siri and Google Assistant can identify songs on command. Just say “What song is this?” or “Name that tune,” and your phone will listen and tell you the title and artist in seconds. It’s like having a musical genius in your pocket.
10. Use Your Phone as a Wi-Fi Extender
Struggling with a weak Wi-Fi signal in certain rooms? If you have an old phone lying around, you can repurpose it as a Wi-Fi extender. Apps like “NetShare” (Android) or “WiFi Repeater” (iPhone) allow your phone to boost the signal in areas where your connection drops. Instead of spending money on an expensive Wi-Fi range extender, you can use that extra phone to give your network a little push.
Bonus: Create a Mobile Hotspot on the Go
Okay, so maybe you already knew this, but it’s still worth mentioning! If you’re out and about without Wi-Fi but need internet access for your laptop or tablet, your smartphone can act as a mobile hotspot. Most phone plans offer tethering options, so you can share your phone’s data with other devices in a pinch. Just be sure to keep an eye on your data usage—streaming Netflix on a laptop through your phone might eat up a lot!
Wrapping Up
Your smartphone is like a Swiss Army knife—filled with features and tools you might not even realize you have. Whether you’re turning it into a level for your DIY projects, measuring rooms in augmented reality, or scanning documents like a boss, your phone is always ready to surprise you with its versatility. With a few simple taps, you can unlock its hidden potential and use it for so much more than just scrolling through social media.
So next time you pick up your phone, why not try out some of these fun tricks? You’ll be amazed at what your tiny pocket computer can do.
