Smartphones are a necessity for modern life, with the majority of consumers using them for essential daily services like banking and shopping, as well as portable entertainment systems for music, TV, movies, reading, and gaming.
Improving technology has created devices capable of providing crystal clear viewing experiences for streaming apps like Netflix, as well as seamless gameplay on the go from the top poker apps and gaming sites.
The rollout of high-speed internet connections has also helped remove annoying buffering and delays when watching shows or gaming. After all, the last thing you want in the middle of an intense poker game or immersive RPG is for your connection to drop.
With so many capabilities, it is hard to believe that smartphones can get any better, but with these hacks for Android and iPhone users, you will be able to enjoy even more from your phone in 2025.
Android Device Hacks for 2025
Android users have a variety of devices to choose from, and many of these will offer different capabilities. Some of the best hacks for these options are included below.
Google Assistant
Virtual assistant software has improved dramatically, making it easy for users to streamline searches and let devices do the hard work. Google Assistant can be activated by saying “Hey Google” and users can update settings so they can activate it from the lock screen and personalize it so it only reacts to their voice.
All of this can be done by heading to the search settings and activating the features that appeal to you. By saying the phrase a few times, the device will get used to your voice and save you from pranksters giving your phone instructions without your permission.
Set Unused Apps to Sleep
Many users will have a list of apps they regularly use, and others that only get occasional use. However, all of these apps can drain your device or slow things down. By heading to the settings, you are able to tailor your settings and restrict the functionality of each app to enjoy optimal performance.
Install Antivirus Apps
Mobile devices are used for the majority of online searches, and accessing different websites can be dangerous. Installing antivirus apps helps to protect you against potential criminal activity and ensures your personal information remains secure.
Remove Bloatware
Restricting the functionality of rarely used apps is one way to improve your phone’s performance. Another is to remove apps that are automatically present when setting up your device.
Many of these apps will never be used, so removing them can increase storage capabilities and ensure they aren’t using up power unnecessarily.
Enjoy Fast Access to Your Camera
Sometimes a moment occurs that demands instant access to a camera, and double-tapping the power button of an Android device opens the camera app. You can then take quick snaps by clicking a volume button, or activate the video by keeping your finger pressed down.
iPhone Hacks for 2025
The overwhelming majority of consumers have either an Android device or an iPhone, so knowing some handy tips for your Apple device is important.
Adjustable Flashlight Feature
Smartphones are always handy to have in an emergency, and their flashlights have been a useful tool for many people. However, not many users know that iPhone flashlight brightness and direction can be altered to suit its purpose.
Scan Important Documents
The notes app is an excellent way to keep track of things and remember useful information. Users can now scan documents when using the app and store them for later use. To do this, simply click the paperclip and select ‘Scan Documents’ from the pop-up menu.
Identify the Music You Love
If you have ever heard a song you enjoy but struggled to remember its name or the artist that performed it, you will love the built-in Shazam feature. Previously, Shazam was an external service that could identify music it was exposed to. Now, iPhone users can access this service via Siri or the control center.
Enjoy the New Timer Slider Feature
Timers can be a great way to enjoy reminders or work out how long you have been doing a task. Rather than fiddling with trying to get the right timing selected, users can now enjoy a simple slider control to determine how long it is set for. This is great for everything from cooking and beauty treatments to setting timers for how long kids are allowed screen time.
Enjoy App Shortcuts
Most smartphone users click into an app before selecting what they want to use it for. But did you know that you can access a secret shortcut menu? Just hold your finger on the app rather than pressing it, and a drop-down menu will appear, giving users the most popular reasons the app is used.
This can save time and provide the user with a more convenient way to enjoy the apps they regularly use.
Conclusion
Most people are creatures of habit; we get a new smartphone and get into a routine of using specific apps in a specific way. However, taking the time to learn about the small updates and improvements that device designers implement can help us get more from our phones.
Shortcuts, power-saving tips, and optimizing the apps we take for granted are just some of the ways that phone usage can be improved.