Five Things You Never Knew Your Cell Phone Could Do

We haven't tried these, but if they're true, they're worthwhile to pass on. Let us know if they work! (And especially let us know if they don't!) So, thanks to Teresa and the website, snopes.com, here's the truth about these claims!

One - EMERGENCY SERVICE. The worldwide cell phone emergency number is 112. If you are anywhere in the world (even the USA), press 112 in case of emergency, and the system will search for the nearest emergency number in the area. This does work in some areas of the world, mostly Eurpoe.

Two - LONG-DISTANCE RESCUE. Scenario: you've locked your keys in the car and you have a remote keyless entry. So does your spouse, child, etc. Unfortunately, they aren't here to open the car. Call them on your cell phone, hold the cell phone about a foot away from the car door, have the other person press the unlock button, holding it near their cell phone. It will unlock your door! THIS DOES NOT WORK, according to snopes.com.

Three: THE HIDDEN RESERVE. If your cell phone battery is very low, press *3370@. This will activate the 'hidden reserve', and you will have approximately 50% more battery time. This 'hidden reserve' will recharge the next time you charge your cell phone. This is a feature available at additional cost with some providers. Reception quality goes down when using this feature.

Four: IT TAKES A THIEF. Right now, check your cell phone's serial number by keying in *#06# . A 15 digits number will appear on your screen. Write it down and keep it in a safe place. (Remember where you put it.) If your phone is ever stolen, you can call your service provider and give them this number. They can then block your handset so the thief cannot use the phone, even if they change the SIM card. You probably won't get your phone back, but isn't it somewhat gratifying to know that the thief can't use it, either? Not all phones will deliver the said number upon entering this key code.

Five: FREE DIRECTORY SERVICE. As you know cell companies charge us an arm and a leg for directory assistance. But there's a free service available. It's (800) FREE 411. Program it into your cell phone, and kiss directory service charges goodbye. This is free. Minute usage fees still accrue.

NOTE: WE HAVEN'T VERIFIED ANY OF THESE TIPS. WE'RE NOT TOUTING THESE, JUST PASSING THEM ON AS A BIT OF FUN. IF YOU TRY THEM, LET US KNOW IF THEY WORK! So now you know the truth of this, according to snopes.com. Thanks, Teresa!