Helpful things that your iPhone or iPad can do (most of these suggestions are available on Android phones too). The comments apply to newer (not necessarily the very newest) iPhone. IOS 15 has them all. Best to update to that version for more features and better security.
To find an app on your iPhone, swipe down from the top of the screen to open the search bar and start typing the name. To discover new apps, go to the AppStore and type a name or subject. Several helpful tools are found on the Control Center. Access the center by swiping down towards the center of the screen from the top right corner
- Weather app included on IOS or download popular ones like The Weather Channel, Storm Radar, Weather Warn or a localized app from you city’s emergency preparedness department or homeland security.
- Video Camera – click the icon to record a movie for friends or document something for later review.
- Share screen on FaceTime Call by clicking the screen icon which has a head image in lower right corner. Share an app or your whole screen
- Now connect with Android phones from your iPhone
- Download free radio apps to listen to stations on AM or FM around the world
- Scanner – use the Notes App and tap the icon in lower right corner for a new note, tap the camera icon on the bottom of the new note, and then select Scan. Take shot of the document and it will be saved in a new note.
- Timer – Open the Clock App and use it to remind you to do something, set an alarm, or see times for cities around the world.
- Flashlight – need some help to see? Open the control center and press the flashlight icon.
- Library – Hoopla, Libby and Overdrive are free apps that let you borrow e-books using your library card.
- Voice recorder – Open this app and press the red button at the bottom of the screen to save a detailed note to yourself. You can share these recordings, copy, or file.
- Emergency broadcasts are turned on by default to get extreme weather alerts, amber alerts and so on.
- Calculator – swipe down and type “calc” to load the basic version seen in a vertical position. If you turn phone to horizontal position, you’ll get a scientific version with trig functions and other more advanced features.
- Restroom finder – in a new city and need to “go”, go to app store and download, Flush, Bathroom Scout or Sit or Squat.
- Magnifying glass – use this handy tool to see small things on a menu or instruction sheet. You can take a picture of the item, but it’s only temporary. Use the tools to change colors or make other adjustments (to color or contrast) to help you see more detail.
- Pedometer – your iPhone will show the number of steps you take daily. Find it in the Health App. Open it, tap Activity, scroll down to Steps to see daily total. Tap Steps to see more information on daily, weekly, etc.
- If you have updated to IOS 15.2, Apple is now offering a Legacy Contact setting. Apple recognizes you have an Apple device and that you will not live forever. Now you can specify who can access your apple account when you pass. You likely have some important information on your phone besides puppy pictures, favorite tunes and so on. There are several steps to take. Use these or search on YouTube for more information and video walk-throughs.
- Open Settings.
- Tap your name.
- Tap Password & Security.
- Tap Legacy Contact.
- Tap Add Legacy Contact, then Add Legacy Contact again. …
- If you are in a Family Sharing group, you can select another group member as your contact, or you can tap Choose Someone Else.
When paired with newer Apple Watches, you can find an ever-increasing list of biometric measurements, such as sleep data, low/high heart rates, mindfulness, noise exposure, walking steadiness, blood O2, simplified ECG, cardio fitness trends, and more. Use your watch’s activity app to record more detailed data for specific exercises in sports like swimming, walking, yoga, cycling and more.