Volume buttons on iPhone are among the most frequently used physical elements of a device. Their basic function – controlling the volume – is well known to all users, but they offer a number of additional functions that are not always obvious at first glance. Apple has integrated them into a wider set of system commands that make it easier and faster to manage many everyday tasks.

Below we present seven useful functions that enable iPhone volume buttons, and which can significantly improve user productivity, privacy, and security. The usefulness of these features ranges from taking photos and scanning documents to emergency assistance and device security locking.

Hidden functions of iPhone volume buttons that most users don't know about

1. Use for taking photos and recording

The volume buttons can act as physical camera shutters. In the Camera app, you can press either volume button to take a photo or start recording a video. This feature is especially useful for stabilizing the device while taking a photo. On newer iPhone models, holding down the volume up button also activates burst mode, which allows you to take multiple photos in a row.

2. Silence incoming calls

When you receive a call, you can simply press either volume button to silence the ringer. This works for both regular phone calls and FaceTime calls. The feature is especially useful in situations where you need to quickly silence the ringer, but your device is locked or not easily accessible.

3. Document scanning

In apps like Files, Mail, Notes, and Reminders, you can use document scanning camera. You can also use the volume buttons to trigger capture during scanning, allowing for more stable and accurate image capture. The feature improves the user experience when digitizing documents.

4. Force restart the device

If your device is responding more slowly or freezes completely, you can perform a hard reset by pressing the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, and then holding down the Side (Power) button until the Apple logo appears. This procedure is effective in resolving minor errors and operating system issues.

5. Quick access to emergency call

A long press of the side button and one of the volume buttons simultaneously activates the emergency call screen. The feature is designed for quick intervention in emergencies, as it allows you to immediately call emergency services, even if the device is locked. This functionality is part of Apple's broader safety system called Emergency SOS.

6. Disabling Face ID or Touch ID

To temporarily disable biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID), simply press and hold the side button and either volume button for about two seconds. The device will lock and require a passcode the next time you use it. This is especially important if you want to increase privacy or disable biometric unlocking.

7. Alarm management

If an alarm is activated, you can use the volume buttons to temporarily silence or snooze it. Although the functionality depends on the settings within the Clock app, most models allow you to quickly manage your alarm without having to search for on-screen buttons.

Conclusion: iPhone Volume Buttons as a Multitasking Tool

Physical buttons on devices often take a back seat, but Apple has proven with the iPhone that even the most basic user interface elements can be upgraded with multi-layered functionality. Volume buttons are no longer just volume controls, but provide faster and more efficient access to the device’s most important functions – from capturing content to ensuring security. Users who are aware of these features and actively use them can significantly improve their iPhone experience.