5 Facts About Phones You Probably Didn't Know

Here are 5 facts about phones that cover surprising privacy controls, a historical milestone, and a stark global statistic. If you want quick, actionable insights into your device's hidden settings and its broader impact, these cell phone facts and usage tips will change how you see your smartphone.

5 Facts About Phones That Will Surprise You

Your phone is packed with tools that can reveal exactly which apps are tracking you and let you shut down that access instantly. The first mobile phone call happened over fifty years ago, and today, more people have a mobile phone than a basic sanitation service. These five facts range from a privacy report card you can check right now to a comparison of how Android and iPhone handle your security.

1. Your Phone Has a Detailed Privacy Report Card

On an iPhone, you can see a complete log of how every app uses your permissions and network activity. This feature is called App Privacy Report, and it is located in Settings > Privacy & Security > App Privacy Report. The report shows you exactly which apps have accessed your location, camera, microphone, and contacts, as well as every domain they contacted. You can turn the report off at the same location and delete its data whenever you like.

2. You Can Instantly Revoke App Permissions with One Tap

If you need to stop sharing information with apps and people immediately, the iPhone has a dedicated tool for that. Safety Check is available on iPhone with iOS 16 or later and is found at Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check. This feature lets you review what you are sharing, stop sharing information, reset all privacy permissions, and even change your iPhone passcode or Apple Account password in one place.

3. Android and iPhone Handle Privacy Settings Differently

On Android 13 and up, all security and privacy settings are grouped together under Settings > Security and privacy. For Android 12 and lower, Google separates them into two menus: Settings > Security and Settings > Privacy. On Samsung Galaxy phones, you open Settings, tap Security and privacy, and then tap More privacy settings. The exact menu names can vary by version and device, and Google and Samsung split some security and privacy items differently. Apple says Location Services can be changed at Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. Google's Identity Check requires a screen lock, biometrics such as Fingerprint or Face Unlock, trusted places, and a verified phone number to complete setup. Google's Advanced Protection for Android is found in Settings > Security & Privacy > Advanced Protection, or through Google > All services > Advanced Protection.

4. The First Mobile Phone Call Was Made Over 50 Years Ago

That single call marked the start of a revolution that would shrink the phone to fit in your pocket while multiplying its capabilities a thousand times over.

5. Smartphones Have Made the World More Connected Than Ever

More people globally now have access to a mobile phone than to a basic sanitation service. This statistic highlights how mobile phones have become a primary gateway to information, communication, and economic participation, even in areas where other infrastructure is lacking. The device in your hand is not just a tool for calls and apps; it is a bridge to the rest of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a smartphone and a feature phone?

A smartphone is a mobile phone that offers advanced computing capabilities, such as internet connectivity, app support, and a touchscreen interface. A feature phone is a basic mobile phone that provides limited functionality, typically suited for making calls and sending text messages.

How can I find the App Privacy Report on my Android phone?

Android does not have a single feature called App Privacy Report. Instead, you can check app permissions individually by going to Settings > Security and privacy (or Settings > Privacy on older versions) and then tapping Permission manager. This shows which apps have access to location, camera, microphone, and other sensors.

Does Safety Check work on older iPhones?

Safety Check requires iPhone with iOS 16 or later. If your iPhone cannot update to iOS 16, you can still manually review and revoke app permissions by going to Settings > Privacy & Security and tapping through each permission category, such as Location Services, Camera, and Microphone.

Can I use Safety Check to change my Apple Account password?

Yes. Safety Check includes the option to change your Apple Account password as part of the emergency reset process. It also lets you change your iPhone passcode and review which people and apps you are sharing information with.

What should I do if my phone is lost or stolen?

Use the Find My Phone feature (or equivalent on Android) to remotely locate, lock, or erase your device. You should also change your Apple Account or Google Account password immediately to prevent unauthorized access to your data and services.