Smartphones are seen everywhere in modern society, allowing us to communicate with others, access information, and perform various tasks at our fingertips. However, smartphones have many more uses that people may need to learn about. Here are five surprising things your smartphone can do that you might not have known about:

1. Build websites
Believe it or not, you can build a new website from mobile. Many website builders offer mobile-optimized versions of their platforms, making creating and publishing a professional-looking website from your smartphone easy. Platforms such as Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress all offer mobile apps with easy-to-use interfaces that allow you to customize your site, add pages, and publish content. This is especially useful for small business owners and entrepreneurs who need to create a website on the go quickly.

2. Scan documents
Gone are the days of bulky scanners and copiers. Your smartphone can now quickly scan documents and convert them into a digital format. The built-in cameras on most smartphones are powerful enough to capture high-quality images of documents, which can be converted into a PDF or image file. Apps such as CamScanner and Adobe Scan allow you to scan, crop, and edit documents from your phone. This is useful for students, professionals, and anyone who needs to digitize documents quickly and easily.

3. Translate foreign languages
Traveling to a foreign country can be challenging, especially if you don’t speak the local language. Luckily, your smartphone can act as a personal translator. Many translation apps, such as Google Translate and iTranslate, offer real-time text and speech translation in over 100 languages. Speak into your phone or snap a photo of the text, and the app will translate it for you. Some translation apps offer offline mode, which can be helpful in areas without internet connectivity. With the ability to communicate with people in different languages, your smartphone can be a valuable asset when traveling or conducting business in foreign countries.

4. GPS navigation
Gone are the days of printing directions or relying on a map. Smartphones have built-in GPS navigation systems to help you navigate unfamiliar territories. You can get maps, real-time traffic updates, and voice-guided navigation. You can search for nearby businesses and attractions, view photos and reviews, and save your favorite locations. This is useful for anyone who travels frequently or needs to navigate new areas. Additionally, some smartphones offer built-in GPS chips, which can provide accurate location data even without an internet connection.

5. Be a virtual wallet
Your smartphone can now be a virtual wallet, allowing you to purchase and manage your finances from your mobile device. Apps such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay allow you to store your credit and debit card information on your phone and use it to make contactless payments at participating merchants. This is convenient and more secure, as your card information is not stored on the merchant’s system. Some virtual wallet apps also allow you to send and receive money from friends and family, track your spending, and even earn rewards for using the app.

From building websites to serving as virtual wallets, smartphones have become powerful tools for productivity, communication, and entertainment. To get the most out of your smartphone, it’s essential to explore its capabilities and find the apps that work best for you. Protect your phone from viruses and malware by installing the best smartphone virus protection. For those in the market for a new phone, consider researching the best smartphones to buy based on your needs and budget. Stay informed and take advantage of your phone’s surprising capabilities.