Smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives, serving as more than just a device for communication. From capturing precious moments to organising our schedules, these pocket-sized gadgets have evolved into a powerhouse of technology. However, many of us are still unaware of the vast array of features and functions that our smartphones are capable of.
Explore 20 things you didn’t know your smartphone could do:
- Measure your heart rate
With the help of various apps and sensors, your smartphone can accurately measure your heart rate. Simply place your finger on the camera lens and let the app do the rest. This feature is especially useful for fitness enthusiasts.
- Scan documents
Gone are the days of bulky scanners and printers. Your smartphone can now act as a portable scanner, allowing you to scan documents and images using the camera. These scans can then be saved as PDFs or images, making it convenient to store and share important documents.
- Track your sleep patterns
By downloading a sleep tracking app, your smartphone can monitor your sleeping patterns, providing insights on the quality and duration of your sleep. This can help you identify any sleep-related issues and work towards improving your sleep hygiene.
- Act as a remote control
If you often misplace your TV remote, your smartphone can come to the rescue. With the increasing popularity of smart TVs, many manufacturers have developed apps that allow your phone to function as a remote control.
- Translate languages in real-time
Traveling to a foreign country? Your smartphone can serve as a reliable translator. With the help of translation apps, you can easily communicate with locals by simply speaking into your phone.
- Measure distances and heights
Your smartphone’s camera, along with augmented reality technology, can measure distances and heights with impressive accuracy. This feature comes in handy when you need to measure the size of a room or the height of a building.
- Identify plants and animals
Are you curious about the plants and animals around you? With the help of various plant and animal identification apps, you can easily identify different species just by taking a photo with your phone.
- Monitor your water intake
Staying hydrated is crucial for our overall health, and your smartphone can help you keep track of your water intake. By downloading a water tracking app, you can set reminders to drink water and monitor your daily water consumption.
- Measure your stress levels
Thanks to advanced sensors, your smartphone can now measure your stress levels. By placing your finger on the camera lens, your phone can track your heart rate variability and provide insights on your stress levels.
- Scan barcodes and QR codes
Want to know more about a product or service? Your smartphone can quickly scan barcodes and QR codes, providing you with information, reviews, and even discounts.
- Serve as a personal assistant
With features like Siri, Google Assistant, and Bixby, your smartphone can serve as your personal assistant. From setting reminders to answering questions, these virtual assistants can make your life easier.
- Edit videos
You don’t need a fancy computer or software to edit videos anymore. Your smartphone comes with built-in video editing tools that allow you to trim, add effects, and even create montages with just a few taps.
- Monitor your screen time
In this digital age, it’s essential to keep track of our screen time to maintain a healthy balance. Your smartphone’s screen time feature shows you how much time you spend on each app and allows you to set limits to avoid excessive usage.
- Find your parked car
Parking in a crowded area can make it challenging to find your car. However, your smartphone’s GPS can pinpoint your car’s location, making it easier for you to find it.
- Act as a spirit level
Need to hang a picture or install a shelf? Your smartphone can serve as a spirit level, ensuring that everything is perfectly aligned.
- Track your fitness progress
With the help of fitness tracking apps, your smartphone can monitor your daily activities, including steps taken, calories burned, and even your sleep quality. This feature is especially useful for those trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Create a personal hotspot
If you’re in an area with no Wi-Fi, your smartphone can act as a personal hotspot, providing internet access to other devices. This feature is especially useful for those who work remotely or travel frequently.
- Measure your speed and acceleration
Your smartphone’s GPS and accelerometer can measure your speed and acceleration accurately. This feature is particularly useful for runners, cyclists, or anyone trying to improve their fitness levels.
- Control your home appliances
Thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT), your smartphone can control various home appliances, such as lights, thermostats, and even kitchen appliances. This feature allows you to manage your home remotely, making your life more convenient.
- Protect your hearing
Excessive noise exposure can damage our hearing, and your smartphone can help prevent that. With the help of sound meter apps, you can measure the noise levels in your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
Today, our smartphones are more than just communication devices. With their advanced technology and numerous features, they have become an essential tool in our daily lives. So, the next time you use your smartphone, remember that it can do much more than just make calls and send texts.
