Major Update Introduces Customizable Home Screen, Redesigned Control Center, and More
After over three months of beta testing, iOS 18 is officially rolling out to the public on Monday, September 16. The update will be available for iPhone XS and newer models, starting at around 10 a.m. Pacific Time (1 p.m. Eastern Time). To install the update, users can navigate to Settings > General > Software Update on their iPhones.
Here are eight key features included in iOS 18, with Apple already sharing a complete list of changes and updates last week.
1. Customizable Home Screen
With iOS 18, users can place app icons anywhere on the Home Screen grid. Two new customization options, "Dark" and "Tinted," allow for recoloring of app icons. Additionally, app icons can now be enlarged, and text labels can be hidden for a cleaner look.
2. Redesigned Control Center
The Control Center has been overhauled, offering more customization options. Users can now rearrange and resize controls across multiple pages, and an all-new controls gallery makes it easier to add and manage controls.
3. iMessage Enhancements
iMessage has received a variety of new features, including:
- The ability to use any emoji as a Tapback reaction.
- New text effects like "Shake" and "Explode."
- Formatting options such as bold and underline.
- Scheduled messages for later delivery.
- RCS support for better messaging with Android devices.
4. Redesigned Photos App
The Photos app has undergone its biggest redesign ever, eliminating tabs in favor of an all-in-one layout. While this change has been controversial, Apple has made adjustments during the iOS 18 beta testing phase.
5. Lock Apps with Face ID
iOS 18 allows users to lock any app behind Face ID, Touch ID, or their passcode for increased privacy. Additionally, apps can now be hidden, moving them to a locked hidden apps folder for extra security.
6. Passwords App
A new standalone Passwords app replaces some of the features previously available in iCloud Keychain. This app allows users to manage passwords, passkeys, and two-factor authentication codes more easily.
7. Distraction Control in Safari
Distraction Control is a new feature in Safari that helps hide certain website elements like newsletter sign-up forms and cookie permission prompts. While not designed to block ads, it improves browsing by reducing distractions.
8. Game Mode
First introduced on the Mac, Game Mode is now available on iPhone. It minimizes background activity for high frame rates, reduces audio latency with AirPods, and makes wireless game controllers more responsive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How can I install iOS 18 on my iPhone?
To install iOS 18, go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone. The update will be available starting at around 10 a.m. Pacific Time on September 16.
2. Which iPhones support iOS 18?
iOS 18 is compatible with the iPhone XS and newer models.
3. What are the standout features of iOS 18?
Some of the key features include a customizable Home Screen, a redesigned Control Center, iMessage enhancements, app locking with Face ID, and the new Game Mode.
4. Can I lock apps on iOS 18?
Yes, iOS 18 allows you to lock apps using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode for added security.
5. What is the new Distraction Control feature?
Distraction Control in Safari helps hide certain website elements like newsletter sign-ups and cookie prompts, improving your browsing experience without blocking ads.
6. Does iOS 18 improve gaming performance?
Yes, Game Mode minimizes background activity, reduces audio latency, and enhances responsiveness for wireless game controllers, offering a better gaming experience.
7. Will all features be available immediately after the update?
Some features, like Apple Intelligence, will not arrive until iOS 18.1 and later updates.
8. How has the Photos app changed in iOS 18?
The Photos app now features an all-in-one layout, eliminating tabs. While some users found this change controversial, Apple has made adjustments during the beta phase.
