Six popular but surprising uses for smartphones

7^th December 2022

The editorial unit

The editorial unit

7 December 2022

Smartphones have become an important part of modern life. Mobile devices have revolutionised the way we stay connected, access information and even entertain ourselves. However, there are a variety of other unexpected ways to take advantage of a smartphone. From helping with medical conditions to keeping our homes secure, here are six surprising uses for smartphones.

1. As a medical device
   Smartphones are now being used to monitor and track various medical conditions, including blood sugar levels for those with diabetes and breathing patterns for people with sleep problems, among many other things. There’s no limit to the ways in which phones can help manage and monitor health. The Health app is a standard feature on iPhones, and there are hundreds of others available to keep track of weight, calorie intake and exercise.
2. As a security system
   With the right apps and features, one can turn a smartphone into an effective home security system. Motion sensors can be set up that will alert the user via the app if someone is moving around in their house and even enable remote surveillance to keep an eye on the property while away. The Ring doorbell app is a good example of this and has become popular all over the world.
3. For mobile iGaming
   More and more people are now using their phones to play online games.
4. To control appliances
   Smartphones make it easier than ever to control appliances and lights at home. With the right hardware, one can turn on the television from bed or start brewing coffee without having to get up. Users can even turn on the heating while traveling back from work, making sure it’s toasty when arriving home!
5. As a practical tool
   Many smartphone apps offer features like calculators, flashlights, voice recorders and even magnifying glasses. These tools can be really useful in everyday scenarios and can help us stay organised or complete tasks more quickly and accurately.
6. To reduce stress
   Smartphones are great for keeping us connected and although social media is often linked with stress, but that handheld device can also help with relaxation. With the right apps, anyone can do yoga or meditation exercises, listen to relaxing music or even track sleep patterns for improved rest.

There are so many ways that smartphones help us stay connected, informed and entertained. But it’s clear they can also be used in unexpected ways to entertain, reduce stress, improve health and make homes more secure. A phone can do much more than just make calls!

The editorial unit