7 iPhone iOS 13 Tips and Tricks You Need to Know

If you've updated your smartphone to the next generation of operating systems, say hello to iOS 13. Along with snazzy extra features, the new operating system comes complete with a variety of handy tricks. But don't worry — you don't need to be a total iPhone whiz to figure them all out. We've done the work for you, so that you can easily learn all the handy tips that'll make your life easier (and more fun). From emoji stickers to faster texting to dark mode, there's something for every type of smartphone user. Keep reading to see the best tricks now.

01
Pump Up the Volume
Getty | boonchai wedmakawand

Pump Up the Volume

With past incarnations of Apple's operating system, the way to turn the volume up or down was to use the side buttons. However, with iOS 13, you can drag your finger on the screen to change the volume. Simply press the side button to make the volume slider appear, and then use your finger to pull the volume up or down on the screen.

02
Create Memoji Stickers
Unsplash | Szabo Viktor

Create Memoji Stickers

Did you know you could create your own stickers? To get started, go to the iMessage app, press the App Store button on the keyboard, and then press the Animoji icon. You can then scroll down and find the New Memoji button. When you have created your character, it should appear as a sticker option in your keyboard.

03
Text Faster Than Ever
Unsplash | Daria Nepriakhina

Text Faster Than Ever

Sending a normal text shouldn't take more than a few seconds, and the new Quickpath feature allows you to swipe across the letters on your iPhone keyboard (rather than tapping them) to type. Go to Settings -> General -> Keyboards. When you see the Quickpath option, toggle it on to start using it right away.

04
Switch to Dark Mode
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Switch to Dark Mode

Fancy a change of scenery? One of the coolest new iOS 13 features is the introduction of Dark Mode. When you first update your operating system (and are going through the setup steps), Apple will ask you whether you want to try this mode. And if you've already updated, go to Settings -> Display & Brightness. Then check Dark Mode, and the background of your main smartphone apps will get a darker makeover.

05
Choose a Profile Picture
Pexels | Tommy Huang

Choose a Profile Picture

A fun new addition to iOS 13 is the ability to choose an iMessage profile picture. You can either use your Memoji character or a regular picture of yourself. Open the messaging app, hit the three dots at the top, and then press Edit Name and Photo. When you're done, you can decide which of your contacts you want to share your details with.

06
Cut, Copy, and Paste Easily
Pexels | Porapak Apichodilok

Cut, Copy, and Paste Easily

Working from your iPhone has never been easier. If you need to cut, copy, or paste text, you can use the Gestures feature quickly and easily. Put your finger on the text that you want to copy and long-press down. You will get the option to Select or Select All of the writing. Choose whichever you need, and then press Cut or Copy. Finally, to paste, long-hold again and choose Paste. Simple.

07
Track Your Period
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Track Your Period

Yes, really! The latest version of the Health app, which comes with the iOS 13 update, has a feature tailored for this. The app now includes a period tracker and a fertility tracker that you can use by inputting your own information. Plus, there's even a reminder feature that lets you know when your period is just around the corner.