Introduction
Your iPhone is packed with features you probably don't know about. From hidden gestures to productivity shortcuts, there's a whole world of functionality waiting to be discovered.
We've compiled the 25 best iPhone tips and tricks for 2026, covering iOS 19 features, hidden settings, and time-saving shortcuts that will transform how you use your device.
Productivity Tips
1. Use Back Tap for Quick Actions
Back Tap lets you trigger actions by tapping the back of your iPhone.
How to enable:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap
- Choose Double Tap or Triple Tap
- Assign actions like Screenshot, Camera, or Shortcut
2. Drag and Drop Between Apps
iOS 19 now supports drag and drop between apps:
- Long-press an image or text
- While holding, swipe to another app
- Drop the content where you want it
3. Use Live Text Everywhere
Live Text recognizes text in photos and videos:
- Point camera at any text
- Tap the Live Text icon
- Copy, translate, or search the text
4. Create Custom Focus Modes
Set up Focus Modes for different activities:
- Go to Settings > Focus
- Tap + to create custom mode
- Choose allowed apps and contacts
- Set schedule or automation
5. Use Spotlight Search Efficiently
Spotlight Search does more than find apps:
- Swipe down from home screen
- Type math equations for instant answers
- Convert units and currencies
- Search web and Wikipedia
Camera Tips
6. Shoot in ProRAW Mode
Enable ProRAW for maximum editing flexibility:
- Go to Settings > Camera > Formats
- Enable Apple ProRAW
- Toggle RAW in Camera app
7. Use Grid for Better Composition
Enable the grid overlay for rule of thirds:
- Settings > Camera > Grid
- Align subjects with grid lines
- Improve photo composition
8. Quick Video Recording
Start recording video instantly:
- In photo mode, hold shutter button
- Slide right to lock recording
- Release to stop
9. Use Burst Mode for Action Shots
Capture fast action with burst mode:
- Slide shutter button left
- Hold for continuous shots
- Select best frame later
10. Adjust Focus After Taking Photo
Focus and depth control in portrait mode:
- Take a portrait photo
- Tap Edit
- Tap to change focus point
- Adjust depth with slider
Battery Tips
11. Enable Optimized Battery Charging
Extend battery lifespan:
- Settings > Battery > Battery Health
- Enable Optimized Battery Charging
- iPhone learns your routine
12. Find Battery-Draining Apps
Identify which apps use the most battery:
- Settings > Battery
- Check app usage breakdown
- Close or uninstall heavy apps
13. Use Low Power Mode Smartly
Low Power Mode can be automated:
- Settings > Battery
- Enable Low Power Mode
- Or create automation in Shortcuts
Privacy and Security Tips
14. App Privacy Report
See what apps are doing:
- Settings > Privacy > App Privacy Report
- View app data collection
- See network activity
- Check sensor access
15. Hide Photos from Your Library
Keep private photos hidden:
- Open Photos app
- Select photos
- Tap Share > Hide
- Access in Hidden album
16. Use Private WiFi Address
Prevent tracking on public networks:
- Settings > WiFi
- Tap network info icon
- Enable Private WiFi Address
17. Lock Notes with Face ID
Protect sensitive notes:
- Open a note
- Tap Share > Lock
- Set password or Face ID
Customization Tips
18. Create Custom App Icons
Personalize your home screen:
- Use Shortcuts app
- Create shortcut to open app
- Add to home screen
- Choose custom image
19. Set Up Widgets Stacks
Combine multiple widgets:
- Long-press home screen
- Tap + to add widgets
- Drag widgets on top of each other
- Swipe through the stack
20. Change Default Apps
iOS 19 allows changing default apps:
- Settings > Default Apps
- Choose default browser, email, maps
- Select preferred apps
Hidden Features
21. Shake to Undo
Undo typing with a shake:
- Shake iPhone physically
- Tap Undo when prompted
- Works in most text fields
22. Hidden Trackpad Mode
Turn keyboard into trackpad:
- Long-press spacebar
- Keyboard becomes trackpad
- Slide finger to move cursor
23. Measure Objects
Use the Measure app for dimensions:
- Open Measure app
- Point camera at object
- Tap to set points
- Get measurements automatically
24. Recognize Sounds
iPhone can alert you to sounds:
- Settings > Accessibility > Sound Recognition
- Enable sounds to detect (fire alarm, doorbell)
- iPhone notifies when detected
25. Use Emergency SOS
Quick emergency access:
- Hold side button + volume button
- Emergency SOS slider appears
- Or hold for countdown
- Automatically calls emergency services
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best hidden iPhone feature?
Back Tap is arguably the most useful hidden feature. It lets you trigger actions by tapping the back of your phone, which can save significant time in daily use.
How do I make my iPhone battery last longer?
Enable Optimized Battery Charging, use Low Power Mode when needed, reduce screen brightness, and limit background app refresh for non-essential apps.
Can I customize my iPhone home screen?
Yes, iOS 19 offers extensive customization including custom app icons, widgets, and theme options. Use the Shortcuts app for custom icons.
How do I find my iPhone if it's lost?
Use Find My app on another device or iCloud.com. You can locate, lock, or erase your iPhone remotely.
Final Verdict
These 25 iPhone tips and tricks represent the most useful hidden features in iOS 19. Start with the productivity tips like Back Tap and Spotlight Search, then explore the customization options to make your iPhone truly yours.
The more you explore, the more you'll discover. iOS is packed with features that many users never find — don't be one of them.
