Mobile phones have become an essential part of daily life across Africa, whether for communication, business, or accessing vital services like mobile money.
While many Africans still use feature phones, smartphones are rapidly growing in popularity, offering powerful tools beyond just calls and texts.
Here are some hidden smartphone features that can simplify your life, boost productivity, and protect your privacy—many of which work on both Android and iPhone devices.
1. Screen Pinning to Protect Your Privacy (Android)
When you hand your phone to a friend or family member, you might worry about them accessing your personal messages or photos.
Android’s screen pinning feature locks the screen to a single app, so others can only use that app and nothing else. You can enable it in Settings > Security > Screen Pinning. This is especially useful in busy markets or public places where you might need to share your phone temporarily.
2. Back Tap for Quick Actions (iPhone)
If you use an iPhone with iOS 14 or later, the Back Tap feature lets you double or triple tap the back of your phone to perform actions like taking a screenshot or opening apps instantly.
This can save time and make your phone easier to use with one hand. Find it under Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap.
3. Share Wi-Fi Access via QR Code
Sharing your Wi-Fi password verbally can be tricky and prone to errors. Most smartphones now let you generate a QR code for your Wi-Fi network that others can scan to connect instantly.
On Android, go to Settings > Wi-Fi > tap your connected network > Share. On iPhone, a similar option is available. This is great for small businesses or homes where visitors need quick internet access without hassle.
4. Lock Individual Apps with Fingerprint (Android)
Many Android phones allow you to lock specific apps like WhatsApp, banking apps, or email using your fingerprint. This adds an extra layer of security to protect your private information from prying eyes, especially if you share your phone with others. Look for “App Lock” in your phone’s settings or security options.
5. Built-in Document Scanner
Forget downloading extra apps to scan documents. Both Android and iPhone have built-in document scanners—Google Drive on Android and the Notes app on iPhone—that let you scan receipts, IDs, or forms with your phone camera and save them as PDFs. This is very handy for small business owners or students needing to digitize paperwork quickly.
6. One-Handed Mode for Easier Use
Large smartphones can be difficult to use with one hand. One-handed mode shifts the screen so you can reach all parts comfortably with your thumb.
On Android, enable it via Settings > System > Gestures > One-handed mode. On iPhones with Face ID, swipe down at the bottom of the screen to activate it.
7. Use Volume Buttons to Launch Camera Quickly
Capturing moments quickly is important, especially in vibrant African settings. You don’t need to unlock your phone to open the camera—press the power or volume button twice to launch it instantly on most phones. This helps you never miss a photo opportunity.
8. Gesture Navigation for Smooth Multitasking (Android)
Modern Android phones support gesture navigation—simple swipes replace traditional buttons, making it easier to switch between apps or return home quickly. This frees up screen space and improves one-handed use. Enable it in Settings > System > Gestures.
9. Customize Vibration Patterns
In meetings, places of worship, or noisy environments, customized vibration alerts can help you know who is calling without looking at your phone. You can create different vibration patterns for different contacts in your phone’s sound or notification settings. This subtle feature helps you stay connected discreetly.
10. Use Voice Assistants for Everyday Tasks
Google Assistant (Android) and Siri (iPhone) can do much more than answer questions. They can set reminders, identify songs, send messages, or even control smart home devices.
For example, you can ask Google Assistant to remind you to buy airtime when you reach a certain location. Just say “Hey Google” or “Hey Siri” to get started.
While smartphones are becoming more common, many Africans still rely on feature phones due to cost and data expenses.
However, as smartphone access grows, knowing these hidden features can help users get more value from their devices without extra cost.
Features like QR code Wi-Fi sharing and app locking enhance security and convenience, while built-in scanners and voice assistants support business and daily life.
By exploring these little-known tools, phone users can make their smartphones smarter, safer, and more suited to their unique lifestyles.
Image Credit: Inc. Magazine
