Wait, what? 5 amazing things you don’t know your phone can do
Remember when a cell phone was for calls and a round or two of Snake? Today’s phones are pro-grade cameras, PDF scanners and even car keys.
I keep a digital copy of my driver’s license on my phone because it’s just so handy. Here’s how to do that.
Paying with your phone is so easy, too. Late to the party? I have a guide on setting that up.
There’s a ton more your phone can do. Many of these functions are found in the accessibility settings. Developers create them for people who need extra assistance using their phones — but they’re handy for just about anyone.
1. Add captions to your video calls, podcasts or phone calls
Not every video chat happens in a quiet space — or maybe your hearing isn’t great. No problem. You can get real-time captions on video chats, podcasts, calls, music and videos.
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Subtitles & Captioning.
- Toggle the switch next to Closed Captions & SDH to the on position.
To turn on Live Captions on your Android phone:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Caption preferences.
- Tap Show captions to turn it on.
2. Translate a conversation in real-time
Despite my promise to myself every year to learn a new language, it never happens. Next time you encounter someone you’re having trouble communicating with, whip out your phone to help. No, you don’t need to pay anything to complete this.
Next update could let you use your phone to unlock and start your car
It’s been over three decades since Marty McFly and Doc Brown took to the skies with a flying car in “Back to the Future Part II.” We haven’t quite reached those heights when it comes to car technology but we have seen some pretty amazing improvements over the years.