Google AI
The Times Australia

Times Media

5 Things You Didn’t Know Your Smartphone Could do


In this modern technological era, smartphones have become a necessity, especially for people who do online work. They are used for so many functions such as making phone calls, taking selfies, messaging, streaming news and movies, and emailing. What many people are not aware of, is that smartphones are capable of doing so much more. For instance, you can use your smartphone in the following ways;

It can be used to control TV

Smartphones that have infrared blasters can be used in place of the normal traditional remote controls. Just download a universal remote app on your mobile and use the feature. You will be able to switch channels, reduce or increase the volume and access the TV settings.

Monitor your health and vital signs

Mobiles were created to help people with everyday tasks. However, some phones have pre-installed features that can monitor your heart rate. For example, if you have exercised or had a long run, you can monitor your heart rate by placing your fingertip on the sensor and it will be displayed. Moreover, devices like the Samsung Galaxy S series can measure your stress levels, blood oxygen, and blood glucose. Although these devices are useful, they cannot be substituted for professional help and you should consult a professional healthcare provider.

Cast your phone screen on another device’s screen

Streaming movies, gaming, and videos on a bigger screen provides a better virtual experience. However, not everyone is able to afford a bigger console or maintain Netflix subscriptions. In such a situation, your smartphone will come in handy. You can just cast your phone’s screen onto a larger screen such as the TV using your phone’s wireless display feature or a Chromecast-enabled device.

Record a video and take pics simultaneously

You can take a picture of what’s on your screen while recording a video. This functionality can be accessed using both IOS and android phones. You can capture a video and photo simultaneously by pressing the round button that is next to the stop switch on your device’s screen.

Smartphones have become a necessity because of the many important functions they have such as allowing us to communicate with people, work, monitor our health, entertain ourselves and gain access to a lot of information and educational content. These gadgets are slowly evolving and more interesting features are being added to newer models as the years go by.

Times Magazine

Still Want to Change Gears? The New Cars Keeping the Manual Alive in Australia

For decades, learning to drive meant mastering the clutch pedal, selecting the right gear and find...

SpaceX changed spaceflight. Now China is proving reusable rockets are the new battleground.

When SpaceX first landed a Falcon 9 booster vertically on a floating drone ship, many experts desc...

Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid or Electric? Understanding the Differences

Buying a new car has become more complicated than choosing between petrol and diesel. Today's buye...

Technology

SpaceX changed spaceflight. Now Chi…

When SpaceX first landed a Falcon 9 booster vertically on a floating drone ship, many experts desc...

Local News

Fremantle Ports to trial project to…

Fremantle Ports has partnered with Byssal and DevelopmentWA to trial an innovative nature-based pilo...

Culture

Healthy Eating: What Does a Science-Based Die…

After years of changing food trends—from low-fat to low-carbohydrate, detoxes and "superfoods"—it ...

Travel

Santorini: Is Greece's Most Famous Islan…

Whitewashed villages perched on volcanic cliffs. Blue-domed churches overlooking the Aegean Sea. S...

The Times Features

IKEA: More Than Furniture—A Complete Design System for …

For many Australians, IKEA is simply a place to buy affordable furniture. Look more closely, howe...

Healthy Eating: What Does a Science-Based Diet Actually…

After years of changing food trends—from low-fat to low-carbohydrate, detoxes and "superfoods"—it ...

Healthy Living: Can Exercise and Good Nutrition Help Yo…

Most people begin exercising or improving their diet with a specific goal in mind. It may be to lo...