Smartphones are powerful tools. They keep us connected, informed, and even organised. But with all the distractions they offer, it’s easy to end up wasting time instead of getting things done.

Thankfully, a few small tweaks can transform your device into a productivity powerhouse. Here’s how you can use your smartphone to achieve more.

Organise your home screen

The first thing you’ll notice when you unlock your phone is the home screen. This is your virtual workspace, so treat it like one. Arrange apps in a way that makes sense for your daily tasks.

Group apps by category – like social media, work, finances, shopping – so you don’t waste time searching for what you need. You can even make use of folders to tidy things up further.

An easy way to keep distractions at bay is by limiting how many apps you have on the home screen. Remove anything you don’t use frequently or, better yet, hide the apps that often pull your focus away. The fewer the distractions, the better your productivity should be.

Turn off non-essential notifications

Notifications are productivity killers. You might think you’re staying on top of things, but every ping and vibration interrupts your flow. Turn off non-essential notifications, things like promotional emails and social media alerts. This should help you focus on the important stuff.

You can fine-tune notification settings by going to each app’s settings and adjusting what it can and cannot send to you. You might even want to enable “Do Not Disturb” mode during key work hours. It’s a simple yet effective way to reclaim your attention.

Use productivity apps wisely

There’s no shortage of apps promising to boost your productivity. The trick is to use only the ones that actually add value to your routine. Apps like task managers and calendars can help you stay organised without getting overwhelmed.

For example, use a calendar app to schedule meetings, deadlines and reminders. If you need a space to jot down ideas quickly, use a note-taking app instead of relying on random sticky notes or scattered messages. Apple Notes or something like Evernote are great options for both personal and work-related notes.

Secure your phone and data

If you’re using your smartphone for work, you’re likely handling sensitive information. That makes security a key factor. Set a strong password or enable Face ID for quick but secure access to your device. Regularly back up your data to avoid losing anything important.

Consider using a VPN for iPhone when accessing public Wi-Fi networks. You’ll keep your data encrypted and secure, even on unsecured, vulnerable Wi-Fi networks in places like cafes and hotels.

Sync your devices for seamless workflow

One of the advantages of smartphones is their ability to sync with other devices, like your laptop or tablet. Set up cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox to automatically sync documents and notes between devices. This way, you can pick up right where you left off, whether you’re on your phone or at your desk.

A smooth workflow helps you stay organised, without needing to jump between devices. It also means you don’t have to worry about losing files or starting over from scratch if one suddenly breaks.