Top10 Hidden Smartphone Sensors and How to Use Them
-- Most people use their smartphones every day without realizing they are carrying a mini supercomputer loaded with advanced hidden sensors. These sensors measure movement, light, pressure, direction, sound, and even magnetic fields — and they quietly power many everyday functions like auto-brightness, step counting, GPS accuracy, gaming controls, and more.
In this detailed guide, we explore the 10 hidden smartphone sensors inside almost every modern Android and iPhone — and more importantly, how you can use each one to improve your daily life.
1. Accelerometer
The accelerometer detects your phone’s movement, direction, and orientation. It is responsible for screen rotation, step counting, and motion detection in fitness apps.
How You Can Use It:
- Track steps using apps like Google Fit.
- Measure vibrations (useful for engineers/mechanics).
- Turn your phone into a seismograph using apps like Seismometer App.
2. Gyroscope
The gyroscope measures rotation and angles. This sensor adds precision to gaming, VR, and camera stabilization.
How to Use It:
- Play VR/AR games (PUBG, COD Mobile, and VR apps rely heavily on gyroscopes).
- Improve camera stabilization for smooth videos.
- Use 360° video viewers like YouTube VR.
3. Magnetometer (Digital Compass)
This sensor detects magnetic fields and helps your phone determine direction (North, South, East, West). It is also used in metal detection apps.
What You Can Do With It:
- Check compass direction using Google Maps.
- Detect metal objects using apps like “Metal Detector”.
- Check if magnetic fields are present near electronics or wiring.
4. Proximity Sensor
This sensor detects how close an object is to the phone. For example, your screen turns off during a call when you place the phone near your ear.
How to Use It:
- Wave controls to change music or mute calls.
- Auto-lock screen to prevent accidental touches.
- Smart gestures in supported smartphones.
5. Ambient Light Sensor
This sensor measures the amount of surrounding light and automatically adjusts your phone’s brightness.
How You Can Use It:
- Save battery through auto-brightness.
- Use lux meter apps to measure room brightness for photography.
- Check lighting conditions when setting up a home studio.
6. Barometer (Air Pressure Sensor)
Not all phones have this, but many mid-range and flagship devices include a barometer to measure air pressure.
Uses:
- More accurate GPS elevation.
- Weather prediction (detect pressure change before rain).
- Track altitude during hikes.
Apps like Barometer & Altimeter use this sensor.
7. Fingerprint Sensor
Most people think this is only for unlocking the phone — but it can do much more.
Advanced Uses:
- App lock for WhatsApp, Gallery, Gmail, etc.
- Trigger shortcuts (double-tap fingerprint to open camera or flashlight).
- Secure online payments.
8. GPS Sensor
The Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor tracks your exact location using satellites.
How to Use It:
- Track your fitness route during running or cycling.
- Find nearby services like restaurants and hospitals.
- Location sharing for safety with Google Maps.
9. Hall Effect Sensor
This sensor detects magnetic fields and is used mostly for smart flip covers. When you close the cover, the screen turns off automatically.
Useful Applications:
- Auto-wake/sleep with magnetic flip cases.
- Magnetic-triggered automation using NFC-style tasks.
10. NFC Sensor
NFC (Near Field Communication) enables contactless data transfer and payments.
How to Use NFC:
- Contactless payments using Google Wallet or Apple Pay.
- Share files by tapping devices.
- Create NFC automation tags for tasks (WiFi on/off, open apps).
You can buy NFC tags from any electronics store or online marketplace and program them with apps like “NFC Tools”.
Bonus: Hidden Sensors You Didn’t Know You Have
• Infrared Sensor (IR Blaster)
Use your phone as a remote control for AC, TV, and home appliances.
• Temperature Sensor
Available in some premium devices for weather and environment scanning.
• Laser Autofocus Sensor
Used for super-fast camera focus.
How to Check All Sensors on Your Smartphone
You can test all sensors using free apps:
- Sensor Test App (Android)
- iPhone built-in diagnostics via Settings → Privacy → Analytics
For Android, dial these codes:
- *#0*# (Samsung diagnostic mode)
- *#*#4636#*#* (Device info mode)
Why These Hidden Sensors Matter
Understanding your phone’s sensors allows you to:
- Unlock hidden features
- Improve productivity
- Boost photography and videography
- Enhance gaming and AR experiences
- Use your phone as a professional tool for work, fitness, and measurement
Final Words
Your smartphone is much more powerful than you think. With the right knowledge and apps, these hidden sensors can transform your device into a professional toolkit for fitness, engineering, photography, navigation, and more.
Explore them, experiment with them, and unlock the full potential of your device!