Apple’s iPhone has always been at the forefront of smartphone innovation, constantly introducing new features that enhance user experience. However, some features remain undiscovered by many users for years. One such feature is the line at the bottom of the screen, which has recently left many iPhone users surprised and amazed at its functionality.
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A Hidden Gem in Plain Sight
iPhone bar
Credit: Getty
Despite being a dedicated Apple fan, one user admitted to only recently discovering the purpose of the line at the bottom of the screen. This feature has been around since the iPhone X, introduced in 2017, which marked the end of the physical home button era.1 For years, users have been swiping up from this line to close apps, but there’s much more to it.
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The Evolution of the iPhone Interface
iPhone
Credit: Pixabay
When the iPhone X was released, Apple aimed to create a device that was all display, eliminating the home button and replacing Touch ID with Face ID. This design change was part of Apple’s vision to offer a seamless, immersive user experience. The line at the bottom of the screen became the new navigation tool, enabling users to unlock their phones and navigate their devices with swipes.
The Surprise Functionality
Portrait of asian woman in sunglasses, looking at mobile phone with surprised face expression, standing over blue background
Source: Shutterstock
Recently, iPhone users have been left stunned to discover that this line has an additional, lesser-known purpose. By swiping left or right directly on the line, users can quickly switch between apps, a function that many had overlooked.2 This revelation has been spreading on social media, leaving users amazed at the newfound efficiency in multitasking.
Social Media Reactions
@bigduke13entertainment
credit: @bigduke13entertainment
The discovery has generated a flurry of reactions online. One Instagram user exclaimed, “How did I not know this?” while another commented, “I’m new to iPhone thanks for this”. The feature is particularly helpful for those who frequently switch between multiple apps, saving them from the usual process of swiping up and scrolling through the app carousel.
How to Use the Feature
iPhone task bar at the bottom
Credit: Getty
To utilize this hidden feature, simply unlock your iPhone and ensure you are within an app. Then, swipe left or right on the line at the bottom of the screen to move between recently used apps.3 This method is especially useful for jumping back to the last app you were using, making multitasking smoother and more efficient.
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A Game-Changer for Many
iPhone surprise
Credit: Pixabay
This functionality has been described as a game-changer by many iPhone users who were unaware of it. The ability to swiftly navigate between apps without having to return to the home screen or open the app switcher enhances the overall user experience. It exemplifies how Apple’s design choices, while often subtle, can significantly impact usability.
Not for All Models
BANGKOK, THAILAND – FEBRUARY 24, 2017: Close up of the home button on the front of a black iPhone 7 matte black.
Source: Shutterstock
It’s important to note that this feature is available on iPhones without a home button, starting from the iPhone X onwards. Older models with a home button do not support this functionality. As Apple continues to innovate, it’s likely that more hidden features will come to light, further enriching the user experience.
Conclusion
Vancouver, CANADA – Feb 28 2024 : Slack AI website seen in an iPhone. Slack AI is an intuitive AI feature within Slack that simplifies summarizing important information and prioritizing tasks.
Source: Shutterstock
