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Think you know everything about your iPhone? Think again.
Apple’s iconic device has come a long way. What started as a simple touchscreen phone in the late 2000s has evolved into a pocket-sized powerhouse. Yet even if you spend hours on your device every day, there’s a good chance you’re only using a fraction of what it can really do.
Hidden features, clever hacks, and powerful customizations make your iPhone iPhonemenally packed with tools that can make everyday life easier, more efficient, and a lot more fun.
With the latest iOS 26 innovations alongside powerful built-in tools introduced in earlier updates, there’s even more to unlock—especially when you keep your iOS updated to enjoy new features, improved performance, and enhanced security.
Here are iPhone features that can completely change the way you use your device.
Next-Level AI Features for Daily Use
From real-time language tools to AI-powered creativity, these features showcase how iOS is becoming more intelligent and intuitive than ever.
Get Real-Time Translations for Calls and Messages
Communicating across languages is now easier with Live Translation. Messages can be automatically translated as you type, FaceTime calls display live translated captions, and phone calls offer spoken translations in real time.
This feature is especially helpful when you’re traveling, making international calls, or working with global teams, though availability may vary depending on language, region, and device compatibility.
iOS needed: iOS 26
Level Up Your Messages and Images
With Apple Intelligence, you can now create custom Genmoji, or personalized, AI-generated emoji made simply by typing a description or combining existing emoji, so your messages feel more expressive and uniquely yours.
You can also design original images and conversation backgrounds, or tweak facial expressions and details in creations based on people from your Photos library.
iOS needed: iOS 26
Screen Unknown Calls Before You Answer
Are you tired of answering spam calls? This feature helps you decide before you even pick up.
When an unknown number rings, your iPhone collects basic details first, so you can see who’s calling and choose if you should answer, decline, or ask for more information.
iOS needed: iOS 26
Powerful Productivity Tools Built into Your iPhone
These built-in features help you work smarter, manage files, and complete everyday tasks without downloading extra apps.
Scan, Edit, and Share PDFs with Preview
No need to install extra apps anymore! Preview lets you scan documents, edit PDFs and images, fill out forms with Autofill, and share files in the format you need, all in one place. If you’ve used the Notes app to scan documents in the past, this is the more advanced version of that feature.
Whether you’re submitting work files or completing school requirements, you can manage important documents easily while on the go.
iOS needed: iOS 26
Measure Objects with Your Camera
Use the built-in Measure app on your phone for DIY projects. Using augmented reality (AR) for accuracy, you only need to point your camera at the object you want to measure, and it will automatically identify the dimensions of rectangular objects. You can also manually select the start and end points for a custom measurement.
iOS needed: iOS 12 or later
Crack Laundry Symbols Instantly
Not sure what the icons on your clothing tags stand for? Just point your iPhone camera at the label and take a picture. Then, go to the photo in your library and tap the information symbol—a lowercase "i" with sparkles. Next, click on "Look Up Laundry Care" to get instant care instructions. No more guesswork or accidentally shrinking your favorite sweater!
iOS needed: iOS 17 or later
Enhanced Connectivity and Everyday Convenience
These features enhance how your iPhone connects with others, your car, or your digital habits.
Navigate with Ease Using the New CarPlay Design
CarPlay’s redesigned interface makes using your iPhone while driving easier and safer. Quickly respond to messages with Tapbacks, check your favorite apps at a glance using widgets, and keep track of real-time events with Live Activities on the dashboard.
With these updates, your iPhone becomes a helpful co-pilot that keeps you connected without taking your focus off the road.
iOS needed: iOS 26
Swap Contacts in a Snap
For a unique and quick way to share new contact information with a nearby iPhone user, try NameDrop! Just hold your devices close together, and a contact card will appear on both screens. Just tap the card to share your contact information or receive the other person's. You can also customize the fields you want to include by selecting "Edit."
iOS needed: iOS 17.1 or later
Take Charge of Your Screen Time
Want time away from your device? You can block apps and notifications for certain periods of time with this feature. In Settings, open “Screen Time” to set app limits, schedule downtime, and even get the scoop on your phone habits. This trick can also help parents manage their kids' screen time by setting restrictions and monitoring usage, promoting healthier digital habits for the family.
iOS needed: iOS 13 or later
Activate Sound Recognition
Make sure you never miss critical alerts with Sound Recognition. With this, you're alerted when your iPhone detects specific sounds you’ve set it to listen for, like a baby crying or a fire alarm. It can also assist those with hearing impairments by providing visual or haptic notifications for crucial sounds.
To enable Sound Recognition, go to “Sound Recognition” in Accessibility and toggle the switch to turn it on. Then, tap on "Sounds" to choose which sounds you want your iPhone to detect.
iOS needed: iOS 14 or later
Unlock More with Back Tap
Another convenient tip is to try assigning custom actions to taps on the back of your device, making tasks like taking screenshots, activating Siri, or opening your favorite app more efficient. You can also use Back Tap to access features such as the Control Center, Notification Center, or even trigger specific shortcuts.
Simply choose the actions you want to assign to double or triple taps by modifying “Touch” within “Accessibility.” This feature boosts accessibility by allowing you to set up gestures for routine tasks, offering a new way to interact with your device and perform commands quickly.
iOS needed: iOS 14 or later
Customization and Personalization Features
Want your iPhone to feel more you? These features focus on aesthetic upgrades and visual personalization.
Make Your Lock Screen Come Alive
Your Lock Screen now does more than just show the date and time.
In the latest iOS update, the clock automatically shifts to keep your photo’s subject in focus, while supported images respond with a subtle 3D effect as you move your phone.
iOS needed: iOS 26
Customize App Icons on Your Home Screen
Your iPhone doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s. Now you can customize app icons to match your personal style!
Pick light, dark, or clear icons and add a color tint to match your wallpaper. With widgets and icons ready to customize, your Home Screen can be organized and uniquely yours.
iOS needed: iOS 26
Instantly Remove Backgrounds from Your Photos
Perfect for creating aesthetic social media posts or just having fun with your pics, your iPhone allows you to isolate subjects in your photos or videos without the need for additional apps.
Simply open a photo in full screen or pause a video on the frame you want to capture, then touch and hold the subject until an outline appears around it. You can drag the subject into a document in another app, or copy and paste it into an email, text message, or note. Additionally, you can look up more information about the subject, save it as a sticker, or share it via AirDrop, Messages, Mail, and other options.
iOS needed: iOS 16 or later
Entertainment and Gaming
Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or diving into your next obsession, these features make your iPhone a true hub for games, media, and on-the-go fun.
Keep All Your Games in One Place
Are you a hardcore gamer or more of a casual player? The new Apple Games app brings all your games together in one place, so you can easily keep track of what you’re playing, discover new titles, and pick up right where you left off.
iOS needed: iOS 26
Explore, Upgrade, and Stay Connected with Globe
From customizable Home Screens and Live Translations to Apple Intelligence tools and smarter CarPlay, there’s never been a better time to explore what your device can do.
Dive into your Settings to try these features, personalize your experience, and make your iPhone work the way you want.
Still on an older iOS? Upgrade to a new iPhone with a Globe postpaid plan and enjoy the perks of iOS 26, reliable connectivity, and all the latest features.
A writer who believes that good stories can be found everywhere from the latest blockbuster to the hottest new song. She channels her love for pop culture into creative pursuits like transforming herself through trending makeup looks.
