7 Best iOS 18 Secret Features You Must Know

iOS 18 is an incremental update focusing on the fundamentals to optimize performance on older devices and on fixing major issues with notifications. Also, there are some new features, such as interactive widgets, enhanced Contact Posters, real-time information in StandBy mode, and improvements to the Journal app for personal reflections. Outside of the expected features, iOS 18 also introduces a handful of secret features that Apple didn’t want to present so that fans can have a big surprise when they discover them. Here we have revealed some of the best features that iOS 18 brings. Not only that, but we will also focus on the secret features that Apple decided to keep hidden.

iOS 18 hidden features

Note: If you haven’t got iOS 18 yet, simply head to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone to download and install.

If you have got a new iPhone, Read How to Set Up New iPhone Quick Start Guide  

Transform App Icons into Widgets

In iOS 18, Apple allows you to turn traditional app icons into functional widgets, displaying real-time app information on your home screen. For instance, turning the Calendar app into a widget will show upcoming events, while converting the Weather app will provide live updates on temperature and conditions.

To change an icon into a widget, long-press it, select “Convert to Widget,” and choose from the widget styles available. If you want to go back, long-press the widget and select the “Windows” icon, or use “Remove Widget” to delete it from the screen.

Ask to Share Screen for Remote Assistance

Helping someone with iOS issues has never been easier, thanks to the “Ask to Share Screen” feature in Messages. To start, open a chat with the person needing help, tap the recorder icon, and choose “Ask to Share Screen.” They’ll receive a FaceTime audio call; upon accepting, they’ll tap “Share,” giving you a live view of their screen. You can highlight points on their screen to guide them or request temporary remote access to control their device. The user can revoke this access anytime by tapping “Stop” in the control options.

Share Wi-Fi Passwords with QR Codes

No need to dictate long Wi-Fi passwords anymore—iOS 18 lets you create a QR code for quick sharing. In the Passwords app, tap Wi-Fi > Show Network QR Code for the desired network. This QR code holds your Wi-Fi credentials and allows friends to connect simply by scanning the code with their camera. This feature keeps your password private while making sharing much simpler, especially in group settings or when hosting guests.

Read How to Fix iPhone X Face ID Not Working After iOS Update

Use a Multilingual Keyboard Seamlessly

The iOS 18 multilingual keyboard is designed for users who communicate in multiple languages, making it easier to switch without navigating settings. By adding languages in Settings > General > Keyboard > Add New Keyboard, iOS will automatically offer suggestions and autocorrect in any of the chosen languages, without labeling non-English words as misspellings. This feature is particularly handy in global conversations or when switching between languages frequently.

Copy and Paste Photo Edits Across Images

Consistency in photo edits is streamlined in iOS 18. Once you’ve edited a photo, you can easily apply the same settings to other images, maintaining a uniform aesthetic. To use, edit a photo, tap the three dots, select “Copy Edits,” and choose which edits to copy. Then, open a new image, tap the three dots, and pick “Paste Edits.” This feature is ideal for batch editing, where you want the same adjustments across multiple photos, saving time and ensuring a cohesive look.

Math Notes for Advanced Calculations in the Calculator App

Math Notes in the Calculator app is a great new tool for managing complex equations and performing operations with variables. Open the Calculator, tap Math Notes, and input variables like “X = 10.” From there, you can enter equations involving “X” and Math Notes will calculate them for you. You can even adjust values with a slider, and the result updates in real time. Additionally, you can graph equations to visually analyze mathematical data, which is ideal for students and professionals alike.

Continuous Looped Video Playback in Photos

If you enjoy watching videos on repeat, iOS 18’s Photos app now includes looped playback, so videos restart automatically once they finish. This feature is particularly helpful when reviewing specific clips or using looping content for creative presentations. The loop continues until you manually stop it, close the app, or move to another video. Although currently without a toggle, it’s an easy way to keep a video going without needing to restart it each time manually.

The transformative app icons, collaborative screen sharing, multilingual typing, and photo-editing shortcuts are just a few of the additions that make iOS 18 a powerful update worth exploring fully.