Technology moves fast—and while we all keep up with major releases and trending gadgets, many incredible features quietly fly under the radar. Whether hidden within your smartphone or built into your car or home assistant, some tech tools are just waiting to be discovered.
Here are five lesser-known tech features that could make your life smarter, easier, and even more secure.
1. Live Caption – Instant Subtitles for Everything
Did you know your phone can automatically generate subtitles for almost any video or audio—even if it’s not pre-captioned?
Available on many Android devices and some Google services, Live Caption listens in real-time and displays subtitles instantly. Perfect for watching videos in silence, helping those with hearing loss, or even translating speech in noisy environments.
Where to find it: Android Settings → Accessibility → Live Caption
2. Back Tap on iPhone – Hidden Gesture Control
You probably use your iPhone’s touchscreen every day—but have you tried tapping the back of your device to launch actions?
With iOS’s Back Tap feature, you can double or triple tap the rear of your phone to do things like take a screenshot, open the camera, mute the phone, or even launch shortcuts. It’s customisable, intuitive, and oddly satisfying.
Where to find it: Settings → Accessibility → Touch → Back Tap
3. Wi-Fi Sharing via QR Code
Struggling to remember your long, complex Wi-Fi password when guests come over?
Many modern phones now let you generate a QR code that your visitors can scan to connect instantly to your Wi-Fi network—no password typing required.
How to use it: On Android or iPhone, go to your Wi-Fi settings and tap the connected network. Look for “Share” or “QR code.”
4. Digital Wellbeing Timers – Gentle Phone Detox
Feeling glued to your screen? You’re not alone. But few people use the tools already available to fight screen addiction.
Digital Wellbeing (Android) and Screen Time (iPhone) let you set daily limits on app usage. Once you hit the limit, the app gets paused—giving you a polite nudge to put your phone down. It’s a simple but powerful way to build healthier habits.
Where to find it: Android Settings → Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls | iPhone Settings → Screen Time
5. Emergency SOS – Quick Access in Crisis
In a serious emergency, seconds matter. That’s why both iPhones and Android devices have a built-in SOS mode that can call emergency services, send your location to loved ones, and even display your medical info—all with just a few button presses.
You can activate it by rapidly pressing the power button or volume button (varies by phone model), even if the screen is locked.
Tip: Set it up in advance under your phone’s Safety & Emergency settings.
Final Thoughts
Modern devices are packed with intelligent features, many of which stay hidden beneath the surface. From boosting safety and accessibility to making daily tasks more efficient, these lesser-known tools show how powerful today’s tech can be when you dig a little deeper.
Why not explore your device’s settings today? You might just uncover your next favourite feature.
