iOS 18 is brimming with new features, from customizable home screens to enhanced Apple Intelligence features. But did you know there are also many hidden gems Apple hasn’t mentioned? We’ve uncovered 35 secret features you’ll want to explore.
Key Takeaways
- Adjust the flashlight beam width and brightness.
- Share Wi-Fi network QR codes directly from the Passwords app.
- Animate screen bezels and customize charge limits.
- Control your iPhone with eye tracking and vocal shortcuts.
- Many accessibility improvements for the visually and hearing impaired.
Hidden Features in iOS 18
Customizable Flashlight
You can now adjust not only the brightness but also the width of the flashlight beam. Whether you need a broad light or a focused beam, iOS 18 has you covered.
Share Wi-Fi Network QR Codes
Finally, iOS allows you to share the QR code for your connected Wi-Fi network. Although it’s tucked away in the Passwords app, it’s a handy feature for quickly sharing network access.
Animated Bezels
Whenever you press a button, the screen now animates around the bezels, creating an expanding effect. This minor change adds a touch of elegance to your interactions.
Custom Charge Limits
In the battery settings, you can now set custom charge limits from 80% to 100%. A 90% limit can protect your battery while providing more power throughout the day.
Quick Power Off
You can now power off your iPhone directly from the Control Center, bypassing the need to go through settings or press multiple buttons.
Custom Lock Screen Buttons
Assign any app or control toggle to your lock screen buttons. Whether it’s a third-party camera app or a shortcut, you can customize your lock screen to fit your needs.
Improved Safari Reader
The new Safari Reader UI allows for faster enabling, background color changes, and text font adjustments. Enjoy a more personalized reading experience.
Icon Customization
Rearrange, resize, and recolor your home screen icons. You can also hide labels for a minimalist look. Dark mode now affects both widgets and icons, though custom icons can maintain the old look.
Dark Mode Photo Editing
When editing photos, you can choose between light and dark mode backgrounds, enhancing your photo editing options.
Calculator Enhancements
The calculator app now includes history and math notes. You can also delete digits by pressing the delete button, a simpler method than swiping left.
Calendar Zoom
Pinch to zoom in and out in the monthly calendar view to show more or less detail, making it easier to manage your schedule.
Live Recognition
Point your camera at objects and receive a live description, perfect for visually impaired users. Though not perfect, it’s a step toward greater accessibility.
Music Haptics
Enable music haptics to get vibrations that match the beats of the songs playing in Apple Music. A fun addition for hearing-impaired users.
Eye Tracking
Control your iPhone using just your eyes. After calibration, you can select and tap toggles by looking at them. While still in beta, this feature shows great promise.
Vocal Shortcuts
Set custom voice commands to perform actions without invoking Siri. Simply say your phrase, like “launch the camera,” and your iPhone responds.
Redesigned Settings App
The settings app now groups all apps into categories, making it easier to find what you’re looking for.
SOS Live Video
Share live video with emergency responders, making it easier for them to locate you in an emergency.
Custom Wallpaper Suggestions
In the Photos app, you can enable wallpaper suggestions, which automatically pick and crop photos for use as wallpapers.
Gradient Clock Colors
Set custom gradient colors for the clock on your lock screen for a personalized touch.
Enhanced Control Center
Modify toggles directly in the Control Center, and resize home screen widgets without accessing the widget selector.
Specific Weather Updates
Get weather updates for your home and work locations, based on settings in Apple Maps.
Sports Scores in CarPlay
Receive sports scores directly on your car’s dashboard when using CarPlay.
Powerful Action Button
Assign any control, such as launching the Wallet app or Apple TV remote, to the iPhone 15 Pro’s action button.
Apple Pay on Non-Apple Devices
Generate a QR code to use Apple Pay on non-Apple devices. In certain regions, you can tap your card on the back of your iPhone to add it to Apple Pay.
Live ID Verification
When adding your ID to the Wallet app, you’ll now be asked to take a live photo to verify your identity.
T9 Dialing in Phone App
Use T9 dialing to find contacts faster. A nostalgic yet efficient feature for those who remember feature phones.
Scheduled iMessages
Send a message later in iMessage, up to two weeks in advance. Though a bit hidden, it’s a useful scheduling tool.
Preferred Home Hub
Select a preferred home hub in the Home app for a more stable smart home experience.
Enhanced Notes App
Change the color of selected text, add files, and record audio notes. If you have an iPhone 15 Pro or newer, you can transcribe audio notes into text.
Slow Charger Warning
Receive a warning if your charger is slower than expected, helping with troubleshooting.
Time Display When Dead
Even when your iPhone is dead, you can still see the time, adding convenience in critical moments.
iOS 18 is packed with features that improve usability and customization, many of which are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Dive into these new options to make the most out of your iPhone experience!