May 20, 2024
Unlock your smartphone's potential with Cox Mobile. Explore seven tips for iPhone and Android to navigate, connect, and create with ease.
Most of us use smartphones every day but may not know about some of their most handy features. Whether you're a Cox Mobile customer or simply a smartphone user, these smartphone secrets will enhance your digital experience.
1: Offline Maps
When you're venturing into areas with no cell reception, offline maps can offer a lifeline. Both iPhone and Android users can use Apple Maps or Google Maps to download specific map areas to use offline.
Just search for the location you want and select "Download" in the menu, and you'll have access to these maps even without a data connection (make sure to do this before you travel). This feature is especially handy for exploring new cities in foreign countries or hiking in remote areas.
2: Group Calls
Group calls allow you to share news and laughs with family and friends, whether you're on a vacation or staycation. Here's how:
iPhone users: Tap FaceTime to add multiple contacts to a video call.
Android users: Apps like Google Duo or Zoom offer similar features.
3: Custom Home Screen Widgets
Wouldn’t it be great if your phone were tailor-made to fit your needs? You can personalize your smartphone with custom home screen widgets. Here's how to set them up:
iPhone users: Tap and hold on the home screen, then select the + icon to add widgets. Choose widgets for apps that you frequently check.
Android users: Long-press the home screen and choose widgets from the menu. From weather updates to calendar events, widgets offer easy access to your most-used apps and information.
4: Built-In QR Code Scanners
You don’t need a separate app for scanning QR codes anymore. Smartphones now have QR code scanners built into their iPhone or Android camera apps. Just open your camera app, point it at a QR code, and a notification will pop up to take you to the linked content. It’s a fast and convenient way to access websites, menus, and more.
5. Find Your Stuff
Never lose track of your parked car or important items again. An iPhone with the Find My app can mark the location of your car automatically when you disconnect from CarPlay. On Android, you can use Google Maps to pin and save your parking spot.
Both platforms also support Bluetooth trackers like Tile, or for iPhones, Apple's AirTags, which can help you locate your keys, wallet, and other valuables.
Here's what you can do if your phone has been lost or stolen.
6. Inverted Colors
For late-night reading sessions, inverting colors on your smartphone can reduce eye strain. Inverting colors changes your interface to a darker theme, making it easier on your eyes in low-light conditions. Here's how to turn on:
iPhone users: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size > Smart Invert.
Android users: Find this feature under Settings > Accessibility.
Bonus tip: Use Night Shift on iPhone or Night Light on Android to reduce the amount of blue light emitted by your screen (which can interfere with sleep) so you can get a better night's rest.
7. Focus Mode
Our digital world is full of distractions, but using focus modes on your smartphone can help you concentrate on the task at hand. iPhone's Focus Mode (found in Settings) lets you customize which notifications you receive during certain times of the day. Android's version, called Do Not Disturb, can be accessed from the quick settings panel.
More Ways to Improve Your Mobile Experience
Want to stream TV shows, check your home security system or manage your account with a few taps of your smartphone? Cox Mobile apps make it all possible.
