Top 5 Hidden Features in iOS 19 You Need to Try in 2025

Apple’s iOS updates often come with headline-grabbing features, but beneath the surface, there are several lesser-known additions that can dramatically improve your iPhone experience. With iOS 19, Apple introduced a suite of subtle but powerful features that many users might overlook — yet these hidden gems can boost productivity, privacy, and overall usability.

If you’ve already updated your device to iOS 19 and want to explore some of its best-kept secrets, here are the top 5 hidden features you should try today. See more on TODAY Explainer

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1. Live Activities Enhancements

While Live Activities debuted in earlier iOS versions, iOS 19 improves how they work on your lock screen and Dynamic Island (for compatible iPhones).

• Interactive controls: You can now tap and interact with Live Activities without unlocking your phone — pause a workout, skip a song, or track your food delivery in real time.
• More app support: Developers are adding new apps compatible with Live Activities, including sports scores, meditation timers, and transit updates.
• Customizable display: Choose what details show up on Live Activities, making it more relevant to your needs.

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2. Text Detection in Videos

iOS 19 expands on the Live Text feature by enabling text detection directly in videos.

• Pause any video, and the system recognizes text in the frame just like in photos.
• Copy, translate, or look up information from text in videos — perfect for extracting phone numbers, addresses, or recipes.
• Works across apps like Safari, Photos, and third-party apps.

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3. NameDrop Share Contact Info with a Tap

Building on AirDrop, NameDrop lets you share your contact info simply by bringing two iPhones close together.

• Open the Contacts app and tap the new NameDrop button.
• Hold your iPhones near each other to instantly share phone numbers, emails, or social media handles.
• Privacy-focused — you choose exactly what info to share and with whom.

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4. Personal Voice for Accessibility

A breakthrough in accessibility, iOS 19 introduces Personal Voice, which uses AI to create a digital version of your voice.

• If you’re at risk of losing your ability to speak, you can generate a personalized voice profile by reading a set of prompts.
• The iPhone can then synthesize speech that sounds like you, making communication more personal.
• Works with the Speech Controller and other accessibility features.

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5. Improved Notifications Summary

iOS 19 makes your Notification Summary smarter and more context-aware.

• It now intelligently groups notifications based on your location, activity, or time of day.
• You can prioritize apps so important alerts appear immediately, while less critical ones get batched for later.
• Silent modes are more customizable, helping reduce distractions.

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Bonus: Quick Actions on Lock Screen Widgets

Widgets on the lock screen aren’t just static anymore. iOS 19 lets you perform quick actions right from widgets:

• Control music playback or smart home devices without unlocking your phone.
• Check off reminders or start timers directly from widgets.
• Save time and keep your interactions seamless.

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How to Access These Features

• Live Activities: Available on compatible apps and visible on lock screen/Dynamic Island.
• Text Detection in Videos: Pause a video, long-press the text to select.
• NameDrop: Open Contacts app > NameDrop > Bring phones close.
• Personal Voice: Settings > Accessibility > Personal Voice.
• Notification Summary: Settings > Notifications > Scheduled Summary.

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Conclusion

iOS 19 is packed with subtle but powerful hidden features that can change the way you use your iPhone daily. Whether it’s sharing contact info with a tap, interacting with Live Activities, or making your device more accessible, these enhancements show Apple’s commitment to user experience and innovation.

Try these features today and unlock new ways to enjoy your iPhone in 2025!

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