where is utilities on iphone
If you've ever scrolled through your iPhone wondering, "Where is utilities on iPhone?", you're not the only one. Apple organizes its apps in specific ways, and sometimes the folder called "Utilities" can be tricky to find—especially if you've moved or reorganized your home screen. Here’s a straightforward guide to locating and understanding the Utilities folder on your iPhone.
Understanding the Utilities Folder
The Utilities folder is a default folder on most iPhones, depending on your iOS version and device setup. It typically contains several system apps such as Voice Memos, Compass, Calculator, and sometimes the Contacts app. Apple groups these apps together since they’re useful tools, but not ones people use every day.
Where to Find the Utilities Folder
On a brand new or recently reset iPhone, you’ll usually find the Utilities folder on the second Home Screen page. Simply swipe left from your first Home Screen and look for a folder labeled "Utilities" with small app icons inside it.
If you don’t see it there:
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Use the App Library
Starting in iOS 14, every iPhone has an App Library on the last Home Screen page. Swipe left through all your Home Screen pages until you reach the App Library. You might see a "Utilities" category automatically populated with system tools, or you can search for any individual utility by pulling down and typing its name. -
Search with Spotlight
Swipe down on your Home Screen to activate Spotlight Search. Type the name of the app you’re looking for, like "Calculator" or "Voice Memos." Spotlight will show you where that app currently resides, even if it’s not in a Utilities folder anymore. -
Check Other Folders
You (or someone else) might have moved the Utilities folder or its apps to a different location. Scroll through your Home Screens or open any folders, looking for the familiar tools.
What If There Is No Utilities Folder?
Sometimes, after customizing your Home Screen, the original folder gets broken up or deleted. The apps themselves are still installed, but the folder no longer exists. In this case, you can recreate it:
- Press and hold any app icon until they start to jiggle
- Drag a utility app (like Calculator) over another tool (like Voice Memos) to create a new folder
- Name the folder “Utilities”
- Add any other relevant tools as you like
Pros and Cons of the Utilities Folder
Pros:
- Keeps essential tools organized
- Easy access to default system utilities
- Reduces clutter on the Home Screen
Cons:
- Can be accidentally moved, deleted, or overlooked
- Some users find its contents redundant with Control Center shortcuts
Tips for Managing Utilities
- If you rarely use these apps, tuck the folder away on a less prominent screen
- Add third-party tools to your Utilities folder for personalized organization
- Use App Library or search for the fastest access
In summary, the answer to “where is utilities on iPhone” depends on your personalization and iOS version—but it’s always easy to find or recreate. Whether you’re a daily user of Voice Memos or just need the odd calculation, knowing how to access these utilities keeps your iPhone experience streamlined.
