Save time and money with these phone tricks
Your phone is your faithful companion and even your saviour in times of need. Find out how to keep it working well and get the most from it.
1. Goodbye to fingerprints
Is your screen covered in fingerprints and smudges? Simply wipe them off with an eraser.
2. More battery please!
About to leave the house and running low on battery? Set your phone to flight mode or even switch it off while you’re charging it to shorten the charging time.
If you’re travelling and forgot an adapter, the hotel TV could save the day. They usually have a USB port at the back that can give you power. Simply switch on the TV first.
3. Correct typing errors
You are typing a message and want to add or change something in a sentence – but the cursor never wants to go to the right place? On your iPhone, long-tap the space bar and move the cursor exactly where you want it. On an Android device, swipe across the display (instead of tapping).
4. Type faster with iPhone shortcuts
If you use some sentences over and over, use a shortcut. You can add your own shortcuts on an iPhone under Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement. For example, “brb” for “be right back”. If you then type this abbreviation in a message, the long version will appear. On Android, you can find the dictionary or text shortcut option under Settings.
5. No more closed eyes
You want to capture the best moments with your friends or family – but someone’s eyes are always closed. Quick group photos are usually impossible. Our tip: Take continuous shots or shoot in live mode. You can then select the best photo.
6. Free speakers
Everyone is chilling out, but no-one remembered the speakers? Place your smartphone at an angle in a clean glass that is not too tall to amplify the sound.
7. Smart lock screen
Write your name, a short message and an emergency phone number on a piece of paper or in a text box on your mobile phone, take a photo or screenshot and use this as your wallpaper. If someone honest finds your mobile phone, they can contact you.
Useful links
Is there something about your phone that winds you up? Or are you simply on the lookout for cool life hacks? Ask the Swisscom Community for advice.
