Extending your phone’s battery life and other helpful phone hacks

In 2018, 155.5 million Americans bought something using their mobile device. It’s no coincidence that, during that time, 60 million Americans were victims of identity theft.

Keep your personal information secure by using a mobile password manager. It works by storing all your passwords in an encrypted repository that can only be unlocked with a master password. Some password managers will generate strong passwords for you, and some even let you store your payment information for easier and safer online shopping. Best of all, these password managers can automatically insert your saved login credentials into your favorite sites.

In addition to fun apps like Facetime and games, your phone can keep you protected with the following features:

• Health app. It stores your medical information and is not password-protected. This means that in an emergency, first responders can easily access your stored information.
• Emergency call. Depending on the phone you have, you can call 911 without having to input your passcode, typically by pressing an icon on your screen or the top or side button multiple times.
• Do not disturb while driving. This feature allows you to mute incoming calls, texts, and notifications when you’re behind the wheel, so you stay focused on the road.

Many of us keep our phones or devices by our bedside to catch up on late-breaking news or work emails right before going to sleep.

Turns out that’s not a great idea, since logging on late at night can mean poor or less sleep overall. But a handful of apps can help you achieve your much-needed downtime. They include:

• Screen time. This function allows you to see how much time you are spending in each app on your phone, and make adjustments when necessary.
• Nighttime mode. Here, your phone does the work for you by dimming the light on its screen when evening sets in, or at a pre-arranged time you select. This reduces the blue light you see, which can keep you up at night.

We often view our phones as extensions of ourselves. That’s because they contain our personal information and are a main source for communicating with friends and family. They also provide us with endless ways to stay entertained, like gaming and media streaming.

Knowing the different functions of your phone can help you make the most of it—and even improve your well-being.