No matter how long you’ve owned an iPhone, there’s always something new to learn. Discovering a hidden feature or shortcut after years of use can feel like a small victory. Here are 19 iPhone tips and tricks our editors rely on every day — and once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.
It’s worth mentioning that some features are available only on iOS 26, Apple’s latest operating system. To upgrade, check out Apple’s guide to updating your iPhone.
1. Identify Plants or Animals
When you snap a photo of a plant or animal, tap the Info (i) button at the bottom of the screen. If your iPhone recognizes it, a star symbol appears. You’ll then see its name and can look up detailed information online.
2. Turn Your iPhone into a White Noise Machine
Go to Settings → Accessibility → Audio & Visual → Background Sounds. Choose from soothing options like Rain, Ocean, or Stream. This trick helps adults relax and even calms babies.
3. Ask Siri to Read Articles Aloud
Open Safari and tell Siri to “read this page” or “I want to listen to this.” You can also tap Page Settings → Listen to Page. Adjust the speaking speed or pause as needed. It’s ideal for multitasking.
4. Schedule a Text Message
Need to send a text later? Type your message, tap the “+” next to the message box, then select Send Later and choose your time. Your iPhone will handle the rest, even if you’re asleep.
5. Customize Your Alarm Snooze Time
Instead of the default nine minutes, you can set your own snooze duration. Go to Clock → Alarm → Snooze Duration and choose between 1–15 minutes.
6. Create Gestures Using Your Voice
In Settings → Accessibility → Voice Control, turn on Voice Control. Then go to Commands → Custom → Create New Command. Record your finger gestures, name the command, and trigger it by voice. Just remember to turn it off when not in use.
7. Remove Backgrounds from Photos
In the Files app, long-press an image and tap Quick Actions → Remove Background. A new version appears instantly — perfect for stickers or edits.
8. Use the Space Bar as a Cursor
While editing a text, long-press the space bar to move the cursor easily. You’ll save time correcting typos without deleting words.
9. Copy or Translate Text with the Camera
Point your camera at any text. Tap the square icon with lines, then choose Copy, Translate, or Share. It’s especially handy for signs or menus in foreign languages.
10. Decode Laundry Symbols
After photographing a clothing tag, tap the Info (i) or sparkle washing machine icon, then choose Look Up Laundry Care. Instantly understand every symbol on your labels.
11. Lock Individual Apps
To secure apps with Face ID, long-press the app and choose Require Face ID. This keeps curious hands away from private apps or messages.
12. Enable Guided Access for Kids
Turn on Guided Access under Settings → Accessibility to lock your phone to a single app. It’s perfect when lending your device to children or friends.
13. Create Polls in Group Chats
In the Messages app, tap the plus (+) icon and choose Polls. Write your question, add up to 12 choices, and send it. Everyone can vote directly in the chat.
14. Limit Screen Time
Within Settings → Screen Time → App Limits → Add Limit, select an app or category, then set time restrictions. You can even adjust limits by day for flexibility.
15. Move Multiple Apps at Once
To reorganize faster, long-press an app and tap Edit Home Screen. While holding it, tap additional apps to group them. Drag them all together to a new page.
16. Share Wi-Fi via QR Code
To share your Wi-Fi with non-Apple users, open Passwords → Wi-Fi → Network Name → Show Network QR Code. Have them scan the code to connect instantly.
17. Record Calls Natively
You can now record calls directly in the Phone app. During a call, tap More → Start Call Recording. When finished, hit the red Stop button or hang up.
18. Get Alerts When the Camera Lens Is Dirty
Turn on Lens Cleaning Hints under Settings → Camera. Your iPhone will notify you to clean the lens whenever it detects smudges or dust.
19. Use Hold Assist for Callbacks
Waiting on hold? Activate Hold Assist under Settings → Apps → Phone. When on a call, tap More → Hold Assist. Your iPhone will automatically call you back once an agent returns.
FAQs about iPhone Tips and Tricks
Q1: What are the most useful iPhone tips and tricks?
Some of the best include using the space bar as a cursor, creating custom gestures, and sharing Wi-Fi via QR code. They save time and simplify everyday tasks.
Q2: How can I record a call on my iPhone without an app?
Simply open the Phone app, tap More → Start Call Recording, and stop when done. Your iPhone automatically saves the audio.
Q3: How do I remove backgrounds from photos on an iPhone?
Open the Files app, long-press the image, and tap Quick Actions → Remove Background. The feature works instantly.
Q4: What’s Guided Access, and why should I use it?
Guided Access keeps your phone locked to one app. It’s great for kids or situations where you don’t want others to access your data.
Q5: Are these iPhone tips available on all versions?
Most work on iOS 26 or later. To unlock all features, make sure your iPhone is updated to the latest software.
