Your iPhone is packed with features designed to simplify your life—but many of them stay hidden unless you know where to look. Whether you’re a longtime Apple user or new to iOS, mastering these iPhone tricks can transform how you use your device. From customization hacks to battery-saving tips, here are 10 must-know Apple phone tricks to elevate your iPhone experience in 2025.
1. Customization Hacks: Make Your iPhone Uniquely Yours
a) Tailor Your Control Center
The Control Center is your shortcut hub. To customize it:
- Go to Settings > Control Center.
- Tap the + next to features like Screen Recording or Dark Mode for instant access.
- Remove unused tools by hitting the – icon.
b) Master Home Screen Widgets
Long-press your Home Screen, tap the + icon, and add widgets for weather, calendar, or fitness tracking. Resize them for a clutter-free layout.
c) Use Focus Modes Strategically
Create custom Focus Modes (Settings > Focus) to silence notifications during work, sleep, or workouts. Pair them with unique Home Screen pages for added productivity.
2. Keyboard & Typing Shortcuts You’ll Use Daily
a) Swipe to Type (QuickPath)
Speed up texting by sliding your finger across letters in QuickPath mode. Enable it via Settings > General > Keyboard > Slide to Type.
b) Precision Text Editing
- Move the cursor: Long-press the spacebar to turn the keyboard into a trackpad.
- Quick text selection: Double-tap a word to highlight it; drag the handles to adjust.
c) Text Replacement for Frequent Phrases
Save time by creating shortcuts for email addresses or common responses under Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement.
3. Camera & Photo Tricks for Stunning Shots
a) Rapid Camera Access
Swipe left on the Lock Screen to instantly open the camera—no need to unlock!
b) Burst Mode for Action Shots
Hold down the shutter button in Photo mode to capture a burst of images. Ideal for moving subjects.
c) Scan Text with Live Text
Point your camera at text (like a menu or phone number) and tap the Live Text icon to copy, translate, or share it instantly.
4. Boost Battery Life Like a Pro
a) Activate Low Power Mode
Extend battery life by 1-2 hours via Settings > Battery or ask Siri, “Turn on Low Power Mode.”
b) Limit Background App Refresh
Reduce battery drain by disabling Background App Refresh for non-essential apps under Settings > General > Background App Refresh.
c) Monitor Battery Health
Check Settings > Battery > Battery Health to see if your battery needs replacing. Enable Optimized Battery Charging to prolong lifespan.
5. Hidden Gems in Messages & Safari
a) React with Tapbacks
Double-tap a message bubble to send a quick ❤️, 👍, or other Tapback reaction.
b) Send Messages with Effects
Type a message, then long-press the send arrow to add Screen Effects like confetti or fireworks.
c) Safari Extensions for Productivity
Install ad-blockers or password managers via Settings > Safari > Extensions for a smoother browsing experience.
6. Advanced Siri Commands
a) Automate Tasks with Shortcuts
Use the Shortcuts app to create voice-activated routines. For example, say, “Hey Siri, Morning Routine” to trigger weather updates and coffee timer.
b) On-Device Processing
iOS 15+ processes Siri requests directly on your iPhone, making responses faster and more private. Test it by asking, “Siri, what’s 15% of $45?”
7. Privacy & Security Must-Dos
a) Stop Apps from Tracking You
Enable App Tracking Transparency under Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking to block data sharing.
b) Lockdown Mode
For extreme privacy, activate Lockdown Mode (Settings > Privacy & Security) to disable risky features like message attachments.
c) Add a Second Face ID
Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Set Up an Alternate Appearance to register a second look (e.g., with glasses).
Conclusion
Your iPhone is more powerful than you think! By mastering these Apple phone tricks—from keyboard shortcuts to privacy tweaks—you’ll save time, extend battery life, and unlock features you never knew existed. Share these tips with fellow iPhone users, and let us know your favorite hack in the comments!
Pro Tip: Bookmark this guide and revisit it whenever you upgrade to a new iOS version—Apple loves hiding new surprises!
