Apple is launching iOS 18 for all users today, providing those who haven’t participated in its developer or public beta phases with their first opportunity to access the latest mobile software update for their iPhones.
This major update includes significant transformations for the iPhone, such as enhanced customization for the lock and home screen, new text messaging features, a dedicated password management app, and a completely overhauled photo album.
Beneath these prominent updates, there are also several hidden features within iOS 18 that Apple has not prominently highlighted but are beneficial for everyday use. Here are a few noteworthy hidden features and settings that users should explore.
One of the new functionalities allows users to restart their iPhone directly from the revamped control center without needing to press physical buttons. By swiping down from the top-right corner and pressing the new power button, a slider will appear to power off your device.
iOS 18 also introduces a QR code feature for sharing Wi-Fi passwords. Users can now create a QR code that anyone can scan to connect to the Wi-Fi network, making it easier to share network access without individually texting passwords.
Another notable update enhances the flashlight feature, allowing users to adjust both its intensity and beam width on compatible iPhone models. The new interface lets you swipe to change the width and brightness of the flashlight easily.
The Voice Memos app now provides transcriptions of recordings, allowing users to search through their memos easily, a feature that was previously limited to audio waveforms.
Additionally, users can now hide app labels on their home screen for a cleaner look, and conveniently switch applications to widgets without having to navigate away from the home screen.
The Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro models can be programmed to recognize music, letting users discreetly use the Shazam-like feature for identifying songs without drawing attention to it.
iOS 18 also enhances the Photos app, allowing users to search for images that contain handwriting or illustrations, further aiding in organizing and locating photos.
Finally, the Podcasts app now includes a feature that allows users to share specific segments of an episode, making it easier to convey highlights to friends without them having to search for the moment themselves.