Most people use their iPhone’s volume buttons dozens of times a day, but almost no one realizes how many hidden features are packed into those two tiny keys. While they obviously control your sound, they also act as shortcuts, safety tools, camera controls, and accessibility helpers that can save time and even help in emergencies.

First, the volume buttons can work as a camera shutter. When you’re in the Camera app, pressing either volume button takes a photo instantly. If you hold the button, it can also record QuickTake video on newer iPhones. This makes taking pictures steadier and more natural, especially when using your phone with one hand or when it’s mounted on a tripod.

They’re also useful for managing calls and alerts. If your phone starts ringing at the wrong moment, pressing either volume button will immediately silence the ringer without rejecting the call. The same trick works for alarms, timers, and notifications, letting you quiet your phone discreetly without even looking at the screen.

In terms of safety, the volume buttons play a major role in Emergency SOS. By holding the side button and a volume button together, your iPhone can automatically call emergency services and alert your emergency contacts with your location. This feature has helped many people get assistance when they couldn’t unlock or navigate their phone in stressful situations.

The volume buttons can even help with accessibility. Features like Voice Control, AssistiveTouch, and custom shortcuts can be set up so physical buttons help trigger important actions. For users who have difficulty tapping the screen, these buttons become powerful tools for interacting with the phone more easily.

Another lesser-known trick is using volume buttons to control media. When wearing headphones or connected to Bluetooth devices, the buttons can pause, skip, or adjust playback depending on the setup. They’re also useful when recording audio, helping prevent distortion by quickly lowering input levels.

And when combined with Apple’s Shortcuts app and Accessibility settings, your physical buttons can be part of automations that launch apps, start recordings, or activate special modes. With the right configuration, your volume buttons can become customizable controls for everyday tasks.

So while they may look simple, your iPhone’s volume buttons are doing far more than just changing sound levels. They help you take better photos, stay safe, manage interruptions, and access your phone more efficiently. Once you know what they can really do, you’ll start seeing them not just as volume controls — but as powerful shortcuts hiding in plain sight.