iPhone users are just learning that volume buttons have hidden features beyond sound control

iPhones have become at the very centre of our lives from dawn to dusk, but there are many functionalities in iPhones that a lot of users might not be aware of.

It's no secret that Apple is known for adding in lots of neat little tricks and hacks on their devices which can be very useful. Personally I still can't get over that you can copy something on your phone and paste it onto your laptop. I suppose I'm easy to please.

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There are lots of gestures and swipes which can mean particular things on Apple screens. However, if you look to the side of the screen to the volume buttons there are also extra functions programmed into these buttons as well which could be useful.

You might already be familiar with using the volume button with the power button to take a screenshot. However, this is not the only function that this particular combo can elicit.

Holding down the power button and one of the volume buttons will help you to contact emergency services with a text or call more quickly.

This feature could be very useful if you are in a position where you can't directly access your phone to call 999. Maybe you're in a potentially dangerous scenario with someone and you don't want to alert them that you're trying to call the police.

Here's how it works.

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If you hold down the buttons together for about two seconds, an option will pop up to call emergency services by sliding a bar across right in the middle of the screen. It's more discreet than having to get your phone out in front of someone, and quicker than unlocking it and dialling the emergency number.

Another function is a little less urgent but still useful. If you're waking up early and your phone alarm goes off, you don't have to frantically stab at the screen with your finger to make the annoying sound stop. If you press one of the volume buttons then that will snooze your alarm.

Do not abuse this power.

Finally, when the camera app is open you don't need to rely on the button on the screen to take the pictures and videos. If you simply press down one of the volume buttons this will act as a shutter. And if you want to take video, you can simply hold the button down to start and then release it when you're done.