When most people think of Apple^® computers, sleek design, intuitive interface, and a plethora of apps are usually the first thoughts that come to mind. In regards to the iPhone^®, the latter especially stands out. However, because of this, its native features are often overlooked. If you’ve never used them before, you may be pleasantly surprised that these “apps” aren’t more popular; they’re incredibly useful.

Apple Computer Basics: 5 Native iPhone Features

1. Magnifier

For extra fine print on paperwork or electronics, the built-in camera can function as a magnifying glass. This isn’t just the digital zoom either. Head to Settings > General > Accessibility and turn on “Magnifier.” It’ll be usable the next time you open the camera by triple-clicking the home button.

2. Speech

Another helpful accessibility feature is Apple’s text-to-speech one. Found in the same section as “Magnifier,” “Speech” will read aloud any text you highlight. Alternatively, you can also set it up to speak everything on the screen.

3. Show Parked Location

For those confusing parking structures, the Maps^® app has a nifty feature called “Show Parked Location.” It only works if your iPhone connects to your car via Bluetooth^® or Apple CarPlay^®. Set it up by going to Settings > Privacy > Location Services; scroll down to “System Services,” turn on “Significant Locations,” and then “Show Parked Location.” The next time you park, your iPhone will automatically mark the spot when it disconnects from your car. When it’s time to return, just open up "Maps,” and there will be a pin for your car.

4. Unsubscribe

If you’re getting too many emails from newsletters you don’t remember signing up for, Apple lets you unsubscribe safely. Instead of clicking an untrustworthy link at the bottom of a suspicious email, look for a gray bar at the top of your screen and click the “Unsubscribe.” However, this only appears if it’s being sent to via a mailing list.

5. QR Reader

Whether it’s linking a coupon, registering a product, or part of a complex alternate reality game, QR codes are a quick and compact way to create links. For many years, a third party app was required to read them, but now the native camera can recognize them. 

If you’re in Denver, CO’s metropolitan area and have an iPhone that doesn't have these features, head to Experimac Aurora for a more recent one. They have a wide selection of certified pre-owned Apple computers and mobile devices. They also offer iPhone and computer repairs. For more information about their inventory and services, visit their website, or call (720) 870-6956 to learn more about their Apple computers.