Whether you’re new to smartphones or have been using one for years, there are plenty of simple features that can make life easier. Here are some helpful smartphone tools and apps that many older Australians don’t realise they already have at their fingertips.
Keep your important contacts close
In an emergency, seconds matter. Both Apple and Android phones allow you to favourite or star important contacts so they appear right at the top of your list. Add your next of kin, GP or care provider to your favourites so you can reach them quickly without scrolling or searching.
On an iPhone, open Contacts and tap “Add to Favourites”.
On Android, open a contact and tap the star icon.
You can also use the Medical ID feature (in the Health app on iPhone or the Personal Safety app on Android) to store emergency information such as allergies, medications and emergency contacts. It’s visible to first responders even when your phone is locked.
Stay connected for free
Phone calls are great, but video calls are even better. Free apps like WhatsApp, Messenger or FaceTime let you see and talk to family and friends in real time, no matter where they are.
These apps use Wi-Fi, so calls don’t cost you anything extra. You can send photos, videos or voice notes – perfect for catching up with grandkids or checking in with loved ones between visits.
If you’re nervous about video calls, ask a family member to help you practise. Once you get the hang of it, it feels as natural as chatting in person.
Use your phone as your personal organiser
Missed appointments can become a thing of the past. Every smartphone comes with a calendar app – Google Calendar on Android or Calendar on iPhone. You can add appointments as soon as they’re booked and set reminders for the day before or even an hour before. You can also add repeating events like regular GP check-ups or exercise classes, view your week or month at a glance, and even sync your calendar with family so they can see when you’re free.
It’s a simple way to stay on top of your routine without relying on paper diaries.
Read, listen and learn on the go
If you enjoy reading, you don’t need to carry a stack of books everywhere. Apps like Kindle, Apple Books or Wattpad let you read novels, magazines and short stories on your phone or tablet.
If you prefer listening, try Audible or Spotify Podcasts – they let you listen to audiobooks, interviews or relaxation programs while you’re cooking, walking or waiting for an appointment. If your eyesight isn’t what it used to be, you can increase the text size or use the read-aloud feature found in your phone’s accessibility settings.
Keep an eye on your budget
If you like to know where your money’s going, budgeting apps make it easy to track expenses. You can link your bank accounts securely or enter your spending manually – groceries, petrol, medications – and the app creates simple charts to show where your money is going.
Many banks also have their own apps that show your balance and spending in real time. If you’re unsure how to set it up, your bank can help you in-branch or over the phone.
Leave your wallet at home
Use your phone at the checkout instead of carrying plastic cards. You can add your credit or debit card to your phone’s digital wallet – Apple Pay or Google Pay – for quick and secure tap payments.
Drive smarter and safer
Smartphones can make driving easier too. Navigation apps such as Google Maps provide real-time directions and traffic updates. You can set up your most frequent destinations – your GP, local shops or family’s house – so they’re one tap away. If you prefer hands-free driving, enable voice guidance so you can keep your eyes on the road.
Explore your health features
Modern smartphones come with impressive health tools built in. The Health app (on iPhone) and Google Fit (on Android) can track your steps, remind you to move, and even monitor your heart rate if your device supports it. You can also log medications, record blood pressure readings or set reminders to take tablets. For many older Australians, these apps are a gentle way to stay motivated about daily wellbeing.
Ask your phone for help
Every smartphone has a voice assistant – Siri on Apple devices or Google Assistant on Android – that can answer questions, set reminders or make calls just by speaking. Try saying “Hey Siri, remind me to take my medication at 8pm” or “Hey Google, call my daughter”. It’s especially useful if typing feels fiddly or your eyesight makes screens tricky.
Keep it fun
Beyond all the practical stuff, your phone can also help you unwind. Try puzzle games like Wordle, brain-training apps like Lumosity, or relaxation tools like Calm or Insight Timer for gentle meditation. You can even use YouTube to learn new recipes, stretching routines or gardening tips. There’s always something new to discover.
Making technology feel friendly
Technology can feel intimidating, but it’s really just a tool – one that’s getting easier to use every year. The best way to learn is to start small. Pick one new feature each week, and give yourself time to practise. If you get stuck, ask a friend, or a family member.
