Unlocking Hidden iPhone Features: Tips and Tricks for Maximizing Your iOS Experience
Introduction and Evolution of iOS
iPhone OS began in 2007 with no official name. In 2008, it was named iPhone OS 1, later rebranded as “iOS” in 2010. Now up to iOS 18, with numerous innovations over the years, including dedicated apps, flat design, and widgets.
Apple’s iOS is packed with so many features that no single review or article can cover them all. That’s why this compilation brings together the best tips, tricks, and hidden gems for iOS and the iPhone. These insights will boost productivity and help users master their devices, setting them on the path to becoming iPhone experts.
Text Input Tips
- Shift your keyboard left or right for easier typing.
- Hold the spacebar to turn the keyboard into a trackpad.
- Create text replacements for frequently used phrases.
- Use swipe typing (QuickPath) to type faster.
Screen Capture Tips
- Screenshot full web pages and save them as PDFs.
- Sign documents digitally using the screenshot markup tool.
Live Text
- Copy editable text from photos and videos for easy use.
- Translate text, call numbers, or visit URLs directly from images.
Safari Customization
- Customize settings per website, such as font size or display preferences.
- Use Safari Reader mode for easier reading by stripping unnecessary elements.
Recording & Audio Tips
- Play background noises like “Ocean” or “Rain” via the Hearing feature.
- Adjust the microphone settings during screen recordings.
- Use Wi-Fi Calling for better service in areas with weak cellular signal.
App Management Tips
- Force apps to update manually or automatically.
- Offload unused apps to free up space without losing data.
- Hide or move multiple apps at once for better organization.
Phone Features
- Silence unknown callers to avoid robocalls.
- Use Live Voicemail to read voicemail transcriptions in real-time.
Camera & Photo Features
- Use volume buttons to take photos or start videos.
- Remove backgrounds from images using Visual Look Up.
- Lock camera focus, and adjust after the shot if needed.
Messages & FaceTime
- Thread messages in group chats for better organization.
- Draw messages or send custom stickers.
- Use FaceTime’s Live Captions for real-time transcriptions.
Security Tips
- Use Security Recommendations to check for compromised passwords.
- Strip location data from photos before sharing.
- Use Face ID for Private Browsing in Safari for added privacy.
Miscellaneous Tips
- Schedule messages to send later.
- Use Notes to scan documents into PDFs.
- Share Wi-Fi passwords automatically with contacts.
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