15/08/2026
Here are 7 surprising functions your phone's volume buttons can perform.
Taking a quick photo
On most smartphones, the volume buttons can act as a camera shutter button.
Recording video
In some camera apps, pressing the volume button starts or stops video recording.
Zooming while taking a photo
On some phones or in certain camera apps, the volume buttons can be used to zoom in or out when taking a photo or recording a video.
Scrolling through pages and menus
On some Android smartphones—or via accessibility settings—the volume buttons can be used to scroll through pages, menus, or lists.
Taking a screenshot
On most smartphones, you can take a screenshot by pressing the power button and the volume down button simultaneously.
Activating an emergency call
On many smartphones, a quick key combination can trigger an SOS function.
Muting a call
When the phone is ringing, pressing a volume button often mutes the ringtone without rejecting the call.
