How to use WiFi and Bluetooth on an iPhone in Airplane Mode

When you’re traveling with your iPhone, you occasionally need to turn off the cell network receiver by enabling Airplane Mode. Although this setting turns off all radio signals, WiFi and Bluetooth can be re-enabled individually.

As its name suggests, the most common place to use iPhone’s Airplane Mode is indeed when you’re flying through the air. You can stop all calls, texts, and cell data with Airplane Mode. Despite government laws that prohibit cell phones from being used on aircraft, your iPhone doesn’t have to stay in your pocket. In fact, the iPhone is a prime candidate to take advantage of the WiFi internet access airlines are starting to offer on some flights. And what about your travel companion who also has an iPhone or iPod touch? App Store games that support Bluetooth multiplayer are perfect for long flights too.

Airplane Mode isn’t only for flights, of course. When you’re traveling internationally and don’t want to rack up mind-blowingly expensive roaming charges, you can turn off cell phone capabilities and use your iPhone as an iPod touch instead – with WiFi and Bluetooth.

Enable WiFi while in Airplane Mode

1. Tap the Settings icon on the home screen.
2. Toggle Airplane Mode from Off to On. This turns off all of the device’s wireless signals.
3. Tap the WiFi menu option.
4. Switch WiFi to On and select a network if one is available.

Enable Bluetooth while in Airplane Mode

1. Tap the Settings icon on the home screen.
2. Toggle Airplane Mode from Off to On. This turns off all of the device’s wireless signals.
3. Select the General menu option.
4. Choose Bluetooth from the menu.
5. Switch Bluetooth to On and select a device to connect to, if available.

And with those simple steps you can put an iPhone in Airplane Mode while surfing the web via WiFi and interacting with other devices via Bluetooth – essentially turning it into a fancy iPod touch.