Apple’s iPhone has always been at the forefront of smartphone innovation, delivering new features to improve user experience. However, many users go years without discovering some functions. One such feature is the line at the bottom of the screen, which has recently astounded and amazed many iPhone users with its functionality.
A Hidden Gem in Plain Sight
Despite being a dedicated Apple fan, one user admitted to only recently discovering the purpose of the line at the bottom of the screen. This feature has been around since the iPhone X, introduced in 2017, which marked the end of the physical home button era.1 For years, users have been swiping up from this line to close apps, but there’s much more to it.
Image for illustrative purpose only. (Getty)
The Evolution of the iPhone Interface
When the iPhone X was released, Apple aimed to create a device that was all display, eliminating the home button and replacing Touch ID with Face ID. This design change was part of Apple’s vision to offer a seamless, immersive user experience. The line at the bottom of the screen became the new navigation tool, enabling users to unlock their phones and navigate their devices with swipes.
Image for illustrative purpose only. (Pixabay)
The Surprise Functionality
Recently, iPhone users have been left stunned to discover that this line has an additional, lesser-known purpose. By swiping left or right directly on the line, users can quickly switch between apps, a function that many had overlooked.2 This revelation has been spreading on social media, leaving users amazed at the newfound efficiency in multitasking.
Social Media Reactions
The discovery has generated a flurry of reactions online. One Instagram user exclaimed, “How did I not know this?” while another commented, “I’m new to iPhone thanks for this”. The feature is particularly helpful for those who frequently switch between multiple apps, saving them from the usual process of swiping up and scrolling through the app carousel.
Image for illustrative purpose only. (Shutterstock)
How to Use the Feature
To utilize this hidden feature, simply unlock your iPhone and ensure you are within an app. Then, swipe left or right on the line at the bottom of the screen to move between recently used apps.3 This method is especially useful for jumping back to the last app you were using, making multitasking smoother and more efficient.
Not for All Models
It’s important to note that this feature is available on iPhones without a home button, starting from the iPhone X onwards. Older models with a home button do not support this functionality. As Apple continues to innovate, it’s likely that more hidden features will come to light, further enriching the user experience.
