Most of us upgrade our smartphones every few years… yet we still use only 30–40% of the features our devices already offer. The rest? Hidden, ignored, or simply never discovered.
These built-in tricks can boost your productivity, protect your privacy, and even save you money—no apps or upgrades required.
Here are the top 5 features your phone already has, but almost nobody uses.
1. The Hidden “Back Tap” Shortcut (iPhone & Android)
Imagine double-tapping the back of your phone to:
✔ Turn on the flashlight
✔ Screenshot instantly
✔ Open any app
✔ Trigger Google Assistant or Siri
Both iPhone and many Android devices already have this feature.
How to enable:
iPhone: Settings → Accessibility → Touch → Back Tap
Android: Settings → System → Gestures → Quick Tap (name varies by model)
Why it’s powerful:
This replaces 4–5 steps with one gesture. Great for creators, travelers, and anyone who uses their phone one-handed.
2. Built-In Document Scanner (No More Scanner Apps!)
Stop downloading shady third-party scanner apps.
Your phone already has a pro-level PDF scanner:
iPhone:
Open Notes → New Note → Camera → Scan Documents
Android:
Google Drive → (+) New → Scan
It automatically:
✔ Enhances clarity
✔ Removes shadows
✔ Converts to searchable PDF
Money savings:
Scanner apps charge ₹300–₹2,500/year. Your phone does it FREE.
3. “One-Time Permissions” for Maximum Privacy
Most people hit “Allow” without noticing that apps follow them long after they close the app.
iOS & Android both allow single-use permissions, meaning the app gets access only while you’re using it.
Turn it on to protect:
🔒 Location
🔒 Camera
🔒 Microphone
🔒 Files & photos
Why it matters:
This alone blocks 90% of hidden background tracking done by apps.
4. Offline Maps (Saves Data + 5× Faster Loading)
Did you know Google Maps and Apple Maps let you save entire cities offline?
Great for:
✔ Travel
✔ Bad network areas
✔ Saving data
✔ Improving battery life
Google Maps:
Menu → Offline Maps → Select Your Area
Apple Maps:
Tap your profile → Offline Maps → Download
Even without internet, you’ll get:
• Navigation
• Street names
• Saved locations
This trick can save hundreds of MBs each month.
5. Built-In Spam & Fraud Call Protection (Most People Don’t Turn It On!)
Your phone can automatically block:
✔ Telemarketing calls
✔ Scam callers
✔ Bot/robocalls
✔ Unknown spam numbers
iPhone: Settings → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers
Android: Phone App → Settings → Caller ID & Spam
Want even more protection?
Many phones now show verified business calls to protect you from phishing.
Bonus Benefit:
Less ringing = better focus + better sleep.
Bonus: 3 Hidden Smartphone Features That Save Money
1. Battery Optimisation Mode
Stops unnecessary apps and extends battery health, reducing long-term battery replacement costs.
2. Wi-Fi Calling
Crystal-clear calls even with weak network—works via internet, saves mobile calling charges.
3. Data Saver Mode
Reduces background data usage by 30–50%.
Great for prepaid plans.
Final Thoughts
Your smartphone is far more powerful than you think.
Using even 2–3 of these hidden features can instantly boost your:
✔ Security
✔ Privacy
✔ Battery life
✔ Productivity
✔ Savings