Tips & Tricks: Some of iOS4′s Hidden Features

iOS4 has a ton of features. The most notable ones were shown off when the operating system was introduced, then known as iPhone OS4. Others worked their way to the tech blogs as users discovered more features through the iOS4 development kit. Then there are those hidden features that we are just now hearing about.

Put a Call on Hold Changed Slightly in iPhone 4 – Hold down the mute button until the icon changes. This has changed on the iPhone 4 because of the Facetime icon.

The Hold Button pre-iPhone 4

Hold Button in iPhone 4 is accessed by holding the Mute icon

Easy package tracking – Click on the tracking number and hold, a prompt comes up asking if you would like to track the package. Obviously more convenient than typing it in or copy/pasting.

 

More Options for SMS and MMS messages РThese are additional options for sending text messages. The first is Group Messaging. If all users have iOS4 with this function turned on, they can share texts, almost as in a chat room. For instance, if one user sends their group of friends a picture from a U2 concert, the others on that list can all see the picture and reply, and see each others’ messages within one text bubble.

The other is one we have discussed before, it counts the characters in a text message. This lets you avoid sending text messages that exceed the size limit of 160 characters.

Sync Notes Over MobileMe or Email Account – When you make notes in the Notes app, you can have them sync over MobileMe or through an email account.

YouTube in Portrait, Zoom – There is almost no reason we can think of to use YouTube in portrait mode, but the option is there. You are now able to do that and zoom in, now you can watch cartoons with a weird aspect ratio and focus soley on the center of the screen. Maybe someone will find a use for this?

Orientation Lock – This is another feature we have discussed before, but we wanted to bring it up again because it is somewhat hidden. You have to open up the multitasking dock to access this function. From there, you will swipe right (this also accesses iPod controls) and you will see a lock. Touch the icon to lock the orientation. Now you can browse iSmashPhone in bed without having the screen rotate every time you turn onto your side.

 There are tons of features hidden deep within iOS4. Finding them all is the fun part.