Top 10 Hidden iPhone Features You Didn't Know Existed

Unlock the Full Power of Your iPhone with These Hidden Features In the Year 2025

iPhone is packed with powerful capabilities, but many users only scratch the surface of what it can truly do. Beyond the usual apps and camera tricks lie some hidden features that can boost productivity, improve accessibility, and make everyday use more seamless. Here are the top 10 hidden iPhone features that most people don’t know exist, yet are incredibly useful.

1. Back Tap for Quick Actions

Introduced in iOS 14, Back Tap allows you to double- or triple-tap the back of your iPhone to trigger specific actions, like taking a screenshot, launching the camera, or opening an app.

How to enable:
Settings → Accessibility → Touch → Back Tap

2. Drag and Drop Across Apps

You can now drag and drop text, images, or files from one app to another. For example, copy an image from Safari and drop it directly into Messages or Notes. Works best with apps in split-screen or quick app switching.

3. Use Your iPhone as a Scanner

The Notes app includes a built-in document scanner. Just create a new note, tap the camera icon, and select "Scan Documents" to scan receipts, papers, or forms like a pro. Auto-cropping and grayscale options are available too.

4. Pin Messages in iMessage

You can pin important conversations in iMessage to the top for quicker access. Just swipe right on the thread and tap the pin icon. Especially handy for work chats, family groups, or OTPs.

5. Measure Objects Using the Measure App

The Measure app uses augmented reality (AR) to turn your iPhone into a tape measure. You can even measure the height of a person just by pointing your phone. A surprisingly accurate tool in a pinch.

6. Set Custom Vibration Patterns

You can create a custom vibration pattern for individual contacts. You’ll know who’s calling even with your phone on silent.

Settings → Sounds & Haptics → Ringtone → Vibration → Create New Vibration

7. Hidden Trackpad in the Keyboard

Hold down the spacebar on the keyboard, and it transforms into a trackpad, letting you move the cursor with precision, perfect for editing text. No more struggling to place the cursor between letters!

8. Silence Unknown Callers

Block spam or unknown numbers without using third-party apps. iOS can automatically silence calls from numbers not in your contacts and send them to voicemail.

Settings → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers

9. One-Handed Keyboard Mode

Need to type with one hand? Just long-press the globe or emoji key on the keyboard and choose left or right alignment for one-handed mode. Great for multitasking or when on the move.

10. Hide Photos in a Locked Folder

Photos can be hidden in the Hidden Album, but iOS 16+ also lets you lock that folder with Face ID or Touch ID for added privacy.

Settings → Photos → Use Face ID (toggle on)

Bonus: Sound Recognition Alerts
iPhones can now listen for specific sounds—like a doorbell, dog barking, or a crying baby—and send alerts.

Settings → Accessibility → Sound Recognition

Final Thoughts

Apple packs so much into iOS that it's easy to miss some of the best iPhone features hidden in plain sight. Whether you're looking to speed up tasks, improve privacy, or simply get more from your device, these tips can help you unlock your iPhone's full potential.