Most people think the power button on a smartphone is only for turning the phone on and off — but that’s no longer true. Modern Android phones and iPhones include secret shortcuts and functions you can activate using the power button to do much more than just power your device.

📌 1. Quick Camera Access

You can launch the camera instantly without unlocking your phone:
✔ On many Android phones, double‑press the power button to open the camera app quickly.
 ✔ On iPhones with Face ID, you can swipe left on the lock screen — or set up a shortcut so pressing the side button launches the camera.
This lets you capture moments fast before you miss them.

📌 2. Turn On Flashlight or Torch

You can configure the power button to turn the flashlight on or off with a quick shortcut:
✔ Go to your phone’s Settings, look for power button shortcuts or Gestures, and assign the flashlight function to a double‑press or long‑press.
 This is handy in dark environments or when you need instant light.

📌 3. Activate Voice Assistant

Many phones let you launch Google Assistant, Siri, or other AI helpers by pressing and holding the power button:
 ✔ On some Android versions, a long press opens google Assistant or Gemini.
 ✔ On iPhones, you can triple‑click the side button to toggle accessibility features such as Magnifier or Voice Control.
 This gives quick access to AI help without searching menus.

📌 4. Emergency SOS

One of the most useful hidden features is Emergency SOS:
✔ On Android phones, pressing the power button five times quickly can trigger an SOS alert — calling emergency services and notifying your emergency contacts with your location.
 ✔ On iphone, you can set up Emergency SOS so that the side button (power) plus a volume button or multiple presses instantly requests help.
 This can be a true lifesaver in dangerous or urgent situations.

📌 5. Take Screenshots or End Calls

Instead of the usual volume + power button combo, you can:
✔ Assign the power button to take screenshots directly via phone shortcut settings.
✔ End calls by pressing the power button — turning it into a quick hang‑up control.

📌 6. Power Menu Shortcuts

Pressing and holding the power button usually opens the power menu — from here you can quickly:
 ✔ Turn off or reboot your phone.
 ✔ Access emergency and safety options.
 ✔ On some devices, change between silent, vibrate, or airplane mode.

⭐ Extra Tip – Accessibility Options

Both Android and iphone allow you to customize button functions through accessibility settings:
✔ Triple‑pressing it can open tools like AssistiveTouch, Magnifier, or accessibility shortcuts without navigating deep into menus.
 This is especially useful for people with mobility challenges.

Summary

Your smartphone’s power button is far more powerful than you probably thought. Beyond on/off:
 ✔ Quick camera launch
 ✔ Torch/flashlight toggle
 ✔ Voice assistant activation
 ✔ Emergency SOS alert
 ✔ Screenshots and call control
 ✔ Accessibility features and shortcuts

Many of these require enabling settings or gestures inside your phone’s Settings menu — and once set up, they make everyday use faster, safer, and more intuitive.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.