Skip to main content

The Power in Your Pocket: 13 Surprising Things Your Phone Can Do

 

Photo showing a smartphone with several apps displayed, in the left hand of a person

Imagine a person who owns a high-performance racing car. They've got the latest model, with advanced features and capabilities that could take their driving experience to the next level. But, despite its potential, they only use it for routine tasks like driving to the local grocery store.

Similarly, many of us are underutilizing our smartphones. We use them for basic tasks like social media, calls, and texts, without tapping into their full potential. But our phones are capable of so much more! They can help us streamline our productivity, unleash our creativity, and even change our lives.

In this article, we'll explore 13 surprising things your smartphone can do for you. From mobile project management to language learning, and from graphic designing to controlling other hardware devices, we'll dive into the incredible capabilities of your device and how you can harness them to enhance your life. So, let's get started and discover the amazing things you can do with your smartphone!

Productivity

Your smartphone can be a powerful tool for boosting productivity, helping you manage your time more efficiently, and streamlining tasks. With the right apps and techniques, you can stay organized, focused, and achieve more in less time. Whether you're a student, professional, or an entrepreneur, your smartphone can help you stay on top of your tasks and responsibilities.

1. Mobile Project Management

Take your projects on the go with mobile apps like Trello, Asana, or Basecamp! These apps are like a personal project assistant, helping you stay organized and focused.

With mobile project management, you can:

  • Create and assign tasks with ease
  • Set deadlines and reminders to stay on track
  • Track progress and updates in real-time
  • Share files and resources with your team
  • Collaborate with team members from anywhere

Imagine being able to manage your projects from a coffee shop, a coworking space, or even a beach in Bali! Mobile project management apps make it all possible.

2. Digital Note-taking

Hey, remember those days when you had to carry around a bunch of notebooks and pens to jot down ideas and notes? Well, those days are gone! Now, you can use your smartphone to take notes and organize your thoughts with apps like Evernote, OneNote, or Simplenote.

Think about it - with digital note-taking apps, you can:

  • Write and edit notes (and actually read your handwriting afterwards)
  • Organize your notes with tags and folders (so you can find them later)
  • Add images, audio, and video 
  • Sync your notes across devices (so you can access them anywhere)
  • Share your notes with others 

It's like having a personal assistant in your pocket! And the best part? You can access your notes anywhere, anytime. No more worrying about losing your notebook or running out of space.

Creativity

Unleash your inner artist, writer, or musician with your smartphone! Your phone can be a powerful tool for creativity, helping you express yourself in amazing ways. Here are some creative ways to use your smartphone:

3. Graphic design

Create stunning visuals with your smartphone! Yes, you read that right - your phone can be a powerful tool for graphic design. With apps like Canva, Adobe Illustrator Draw, or Procreate, you can:

  • Make social media graphics, posters, and flyers
  • Design logos, icons, and branding materials
  • Create infographics, charts, and diagrams
  • Edit and enhance photos
  • Even create animated graphics and videos!

These apps offer a range of features, from templates and design tools to advanced editing capabilities. Plus, they're often super intuitive and user-friendly, making graphic design accessible to everyone - not just pros!

4. Writing

Your smartphone can be a writer's best friend! With the right apps, you can turn your phone into a portable writing studio. Imagine being able to write anywhere, anytime - from a cozy coffee shop to a bustling park.

Apps like Ulysses, Google Docs, and Day One offer a range of features to help you stay creative and productive. From writing novels to journaling, these apps have got you covered.

Let's explore some ways to make the most of writing on your smartphone:

  • Use writing prompts to spark new ideas
  • Set writing goals and track your progress
  • Experiment with different writing styles and genres
  • Join writing communities to connect with fellow writers

5. Mobile Photography

Unleash your inner photographer with your smartphone! With advanced camera apps like Manual or ProCam, you can take professional-grade photos on the go. Imagine capturing stunning landscapes, portraits, or street photography with just your phone.

Take your mobile photography to the next level:

  • Experiment with manual controls and settings
  • Use editing apps like VSCO or Snapseed to enhance your photos
  • Try out different genres like macro, night, or aerial photography
  • Share your photos on social media or create a photography portfolio

6. Mobile Web Design

Create and manage a website right from your smartphone! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, mobile-friendly website builders like Wix or Weebly offer intuitive tools to bring your website ideas to life. If you're new to web design, you can:

  • Use drag-and-drop tools to build and customize a website without coding skills
  • Choose from a wide range of templates to get started

And if you're a developer or seasoned pro, you can:

  • Code a website from scratch using mobile-friendly coding apps such as Code Editor or Dcoder
  • Use your phone to manage and update your clients' websites on-the-go

Either way, mobile web design makes it easy to take control of your online presence and create a professional-looking website anywhere, anytime!

Learning and Development

Enlaitened Tech is passionate about helping you shine a light on your learning journey! Imagine redirecting those hours spent on unproductive habits towards "enlaitening" your mind. Your smartphone can be a beacon of knowledge, guiding you towards growth and development. Let's explore four ways to make the most of it:

7. Language Learning

Learn a new language anywhere, anytime with your smartphone! With apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone, you can:

  • Learn basics like grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation
  • Explore interactive lessons, quizzes, and games
  • Practice conversational skills with native speakers
  • Discover new cultures and connect with global communities
  • Track progress and set achievable goals
  • Access offline lessons for on-the-go learning
  • Use speech recognition technology to improve pronunciation
  • Learn specialized vocabulary for travel, business, or hobbies

Imagine being able to:

  • Order food in Spanish like a local
  • Understand French cinema without subtitles
  • Read Japanese manga in its original language
  • Communicate with colleagues in their native language
  • Negotiate prices in markets around the world
  • Read books and articles in their original language
  • Connect with family and friends who speak a different language

Language learning apps make it fun, easy, and accessible. Unlock your language potential and discover a world of possibilities!

8. Online Courses

Supercharge your skills with online courses! Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of courses to suit your interests and skills. Learn from industry experts and professionals, and:

  • Explore courses on business, tech, art, and more
  • Access video lectures, readings, and assignments
  • Earn certificates and badges to boost your resume
  • Connect with fellow learners and instructors
  • Take courses at your own pace, anytime, anywhere
  • Discover new skills and hobbies, or enhance existing ones
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and insights

Elevate your knowledge and skills, and:

  • Transform your career with in-demand skills
  • Turn your passion into a successful business
  • Unleash your creativity and productivity
  • Develop leadership and management expertise
  • Explore new interests and hobbies
  • Stay ahead in your industry

Why not start by choosing a course that sparks your interest and begin learning today? With so many options available, you're sure to find the perfect fit!

9. Online Course Creation

Share your expertise and create online courses or learning materials! If you have knowledge or skills to share, you can:

  • Design and deliver your own online courses
  • Create engaging video lessons, quizzes, and assignments
  • Share your passion and expertise with a global audience
  • Monetize your knowledge and skills
  • Reach learners across the world
  • Build your personal brand and establish thought leadership
  • Create a legacy of learning and impact

You can upload your courses to popular platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or Coursera. To create and deliver your courses, you can use apps and tools like ScreenFlow, Camtasia, and Google Classroom to craft engaging video lessons, quizzes, and assignments that showcase your expertise. Now, it's time to turn your knowledge into a valuable resource that can inspire and educate others – get creative and start building your online course with your smartphone!

10. Online Forums

Tap into the collective wisdom of online forums. Engage with communities related to your interests and:

  • Ask questions and get answers from experienced individuals
  • Share your knowledge and help others
  • Gain insights from diverse perspectives
  • Stay updated on industry trends and news
  • Connect with like-minded individuals and potential collaborators
  • Develop your critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Explore popular forums like Reddit, Quora, and LinkedIn Groups. Dive into discussions, ask questions, and learn from others. Join the conversation and expand your knowledge!

Tech and Programming

Push the boundaries of what's possible with your smartphone. Discover new ways to create, innovate, and automate. The future is in your hands! With your smartphone, you can:

11. Write code on-the-go

Use mobile IDEs like Termux, Pydroid, or Juno to write and run code directly on your smartphone. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting out, mobile coding apps offer a range of features to help you:

  • Write and edit code in various programming languages
  • Run and debug code in real-time
  • Access a terminal or command prompt
  • Install packages and libraries
  • Collaborate with others on coding projects

With mobile coding apps, you can work on projects, learn new skills, or even build apps on-the-go!

 12. Access a VPS (Virtual Private Server)

Transform your smartphone into a powerful computer by accessing a VPS (Virtual Private Server) remotely. With a VPS, you can:

  • Run a full-fledged operating system (like Linux, Windows, or macOS)
  • Access a desktop environment and use graphical applications
  • Execute commands and scripts in a terminal or command prompt
  • Store and manage files in a secure and scalable environment
  • Install and run server-side applications and services

Using a VPS client app on your smartphone, you can connect to your virtual server and work on projects, access files, or run applications from anywhere!

13. Control other hardware devices

Use your smartphone to control and interact with other hardware devices, such as:

  • Home appliances (lights, thermostats, security cameras)
  • Robots and gadgets (drones, robots, sensors)
  • Entertainment systems (TVs, soundbars, gaming consoles)
  • Vehicles (cars, drones, boats)
  • Wearable devices (smartwatches, fitness trackers, health monitors)

With apps and frameworks like Tasker, IFTTT, or Home Assistant, you can:

  • Automate tasks and workflows
  • Receive notifications and alerts
  • Send commands and instructions
  • Monitor sensor data and telemetry
  • Connect with other smart devices and services

By controlling hardware devices with your smartphone, you can create a connected and automated world around you!

Unlock Your Smartphone's Full Potential

As you've seen, your smartphone is more than just a device for calls and texts. It's a powerful tool that can help you learn, create, and connect with the world around you.

I hope this article has inspired you to explore the full capabilities of your smartphone and discover new ways to make your life easier, more productive, and more enjoyable.

Now it's your turn! Share your favorite smartphone tips, tricks, and apps in the comments below. Let me know how you use your smartphone to streamline your daily tasks, pursue your passions, or simplify your life.

Together, let's unlock the full potential of our smartphones and unlock a world of possibilities!

Till my next post, 

Stay Enlaitened! 

Comments

Contact Form




Popular posts from this blog

>

Is the Digital Divide Real in Nigeria? A Deep Dive

When we talk about the digital divide , we often think of differences between countries—say, a highly developed nation versus a developing one. But the reality is more nuanced, especially in a country as diverse and complex as Nigeria. Is the digital divide real here? Absolutely. And not only is it real—it’s layered, persistent, and evolving . This article would enlaiten you as we explore what the digital divide looks like in Nigeria today, why it matters, and how it affects millions—sometimes in ways we don’t even notice.   Why Nigeria? Aside from the fact that I was born here, grew up here, and currently live in the country, Nigeria holds a unique position in Africa. It's the continent's most populous nation and one of the fastest-growing in terms of mobile phone penetration and internet subscriptions. So, if you want to understand Africa's digital future, Nigeria is a good place to start. But understanding Nigeria also means facing its harsh digital ...
>

Password Hygiene: Best Practices for a Safer Online Life

  Almost everything we do online requires an account—and every account needs a password. From your personal Facebook to your work email to shopping apps, you probably log in and out of something multiple times a day. Managing strong passwords might feel like a chore, but it’s essential. Think of it like brushing your teeth—tedious if ignored, painful if skipped. If you’ve ever been locked out of an account or worse, had your information stolen, you’ll know exactly how costly weak password habits can be. Hackers are no longer shady figures typing furiously in dark basements. They're bots and scripts constantly scanning for easy prey—accounts with weak, predictable, or reused passwords. To avoid becoming a digital victim, here’s how to step up your password hygiene, stay safer online , and keep the “stalking panthers” of the web at bay.   🔒 Tip 1: Use Very Strong Passwords It’s tempting to go with something easy like Danny@2002 or mybirthday123 —but these are exactly ...
>

Digital Learning in 2025: What to Know, Do, and Avoid

Digital learning has come a long way, and here in 2025, it’s more woven into our lives than ever before. From students learning on mobile phones to adults picking up new skills after work, the world of learning is no longer tied to classrooms and textbooks. If you’re just getting back into digital learning—or if you're curious about how to make the most of it—this post would enlaiten you on what you need to know, what to do, and what to avoid in today’s digital learning space. 🌐 What You Should Know About Digital Learning in 2025 1. AI Is Changing Everything AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore. In 2025, artificial intelligence is deeply integrated into many digital learning platforms. It’s becoming more sophisticated in analyzing students' strengths and weaknesses and offering tailored solutions and personalized learning paths. Think of it as having a virtual tutor that understands your learning style and adapts accordingly. 2. Immersive Learning Technologies Ar...
>

The Internet Explained: What It Is and How It Works

Have you ever stopped to wonder how your favorite photo travels from your phone to your best friend’s device halfway across the world? Is it magic, a stroke of genius, or something else entirely? The answer lies in a vast and interconnected web of networks we call the internet. For beginners stepping into the digital world, the internet might seem like an invisible force that just "works." But behind every message, video, and website is a fascinating system of connections, devices, and technologies working together seamlessly. In this article, we’ll break it all down step by step, using simple examples and easy-to-follow explanations. By the end, you’ll not only understand what the internet is but also how it powers our everyday lives—from sending a WhatsApp message to browsing your favorite website. Let’s dive in!  What Is the Internet? The internet is a global network of interconnected devices, servers, and computers that communicate with each other. It’s like a gigantic sp...
>

The Best Free Productivity Tools You're Not Using (But Should Be)

Feeling overwhelmed by endless tasks and scattered deadlines? You're not alone. Staying productive in today's fast-paced digital world can feel like juggling too many tabs—literally and mentally. But here's the good news: there are free, powerful tools out there that can help you regain control, stay organized, and get more done—without spending a naira. These aren't just popular tools; they're ones I’ve tried and found helpful, and I believe they can make a real difference for you too. Let’s dive into some underrated productivity tools that could become your new digital best friends. 1. Task Management Having a to-do list isn't enough—you need a system. Task management tools help break goals into actionable steps so you're not just busy, but actually productive. Trello Trello gives you a visual way to plan your day or projects using boards, lists, and cards. Think of it as your digital sticky note system—but way cooler an...