13 Best New Features in iOS 18 and How to Use Them

Apple introduced iOS 18 at its September 2024 event, held alongside the unveiling of the iPhone 16 series. The latest iOS 18 is available as a free upgrade for compatible devices, packed with new features that make the iPhone more intuitive, secure, and personalized. From upgraded widgets to enhanced privacy settings, iOS 18 offers a more seamless, secure, and interactive experience. This article explores the key features of iOS 18, including interactive widgets, enhanced Contact Posters, new AirDrop capabilities, privacy enhancements, and much more.

How to Upgrade to iOS 18

To upgrade iOS 18, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. If your device is eligible for the update, an option to install iOS 18 will be displayed, just tap “Download and Install.” Ensure your device is backed up and connected to Wi-Fi.

Eligible Devices for iOS 18: If you’re using an iPhone older than the XR or XS, or a first-generation iPhone SE, the update won’t be compatible with your device.

✅ Make sure your iPhone is compatible
✅ Back up your data to iCloud
🥳 You’re ready to upgrade to #iOS18 on September 16!

Learn more and see if your device is compatible: https://t.co/08ztFvPemV pic.twitter.com/XQmjodYrHJ

— Apple Support (@AppleSupport) September 9, 2024

If you’re not in a rush, it’s prudent to wait a few days in case Apple identifies and addresses any potential bugs before proceeding with the upgrade.

New Features in iOS 18

iOS 18 update comes packed with an array of exciting features that promise to elevate your iPhone experience. From Interactive Widgets to StandBy Mode with Real-time Data, FaceTime Video Messages, AirDrop Enhancements, Siri Upgrades, Privacy and Security Features designed to make your daily interactions smoother and more enjoyable.

Home Screen Customization

iOS 18 offers more flexibility than ever for customizing the Home Screen. Users can arrange app icons and widgets in any position, even along the bottom or off to the side. You can also apply dark icons, color tints, or opt for larger icons to simplify navigation. This allows users to create a personalized layout that matches their preferences or needs.

To use this, long-press on the home screen to enter “jiggle mode,” where you can drag icons and widgets around. Users can also make icons larger, helping those who prefer a more accessible layout.

Photos App Redesign

The Photos app gets a massive overhaul. The redesigned layout makes it easier to browse and organize photos with new categories like Groups (for frequently appearing people and pets), Trips (to organize travel photos), and Recent Days (to highlight the latest images without clutter). The app also introduces video speed control for fine-tuning high frame rate videos and helpful utilities for documents and receipts.

Use the Memories section to review these groups, and tap into the Trip view for a dynamic visual travel log. New document-scanning utilities are available for receipts and papers—tap the scanning icon when viewing photos.

Revamped Messages

iMessage comes to life with new features like Text Effects, which visually amplify letters or emojis, and Text Formatting, allowing users to bold, underline, or italicize messages. To use them, hold down on a message before sending to add effects like bubble animations or confetti. You can also bold, underline, or italicize text by long-pressing a message and choosing formatting options.

RCS Messaging is also supported, which means you can enjoy high-quality photo sharing with Android users. You can now schedule messages using Send Later and react with custom emojis or sticker Tapbacks.

Control Centre Customization

The Control Centre is redesigned with more personalization options. To customize it, go to Settings > Control Centre. Here, you can add controls, resize them, or group frequently used options together.

You can even add widgets for third-party apps, making it more tailored to your specific needs. Simply drag the control groups around and organize them as you like.

Lock Screen Personalization

Apple now allows users to customize the Lock Screen fonts and add Lock Screen controls for apps like music and home automation. To change fonts, long-press on the Lock Screen, and you can cycle through available font choices and adjust the size.

iOS 18 also adds more font options for the time, including new scripts from languages like Gujarati, Telugu, and Urdu, allowing a richer cultural representation on your iPhone.

Safari Enhancements

The new Distraction Control feature in Safari allows users to hide disruptive elements on a web page for a smoother browsing experience. Simply activate this in Safari settings. Safari also integrates more secure ways to manage passwords and verification codes with autofill for a seamless experience across websites.

Maps Custom Walking and Hiking Routes

Apple Maps now supports custom walking and hiking routes. Simply search for a location, tap Directions, and select the new Walking or Hiking options. This feature also integrates the Places Library, so saved guides and routes can easily be accessed later. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Hiking Mode provides accurate elevation and terrain information.

Game Mode

Gamers will love the Game Mode in iOS 18, which minimizes background activities to maintain peak frame rates, ensuring smoother gameplay. This mode also optimizes responsiveness for accessories like wireless game controllers and AirPods, enhancing the gaming experience. To activate it, open a game and swipe down from the upper-right corner to open Control Centre, where you can toggle Game Mode.

Journal App

iOS 18 introduces Journal, a new app that integrates with the Health app, allowing you to log your emotions and mood. The app includes widgets and Insights, which track your writing streaks and journaling habits. The Search function and prompts help keep users engaged and reflective throughout their day.

The app integrates suggestions from your day—such as photos or locations visited—and offers writing prompts.

Phone Features

iOS 18 makes managing phone calls easier with Live Voicemail, which transcribes voicemail messages in real-time, letting you decide whether to answer. You can also search for recent calls, contacts, and voicemails directly from the keypad, improving call management. To access this feature, head to Phone Settings > Voicemail and enable Live Voicemail.

AirPods and Hands-Free Siri

New hands-free Siri interactions with AirPods make it possible to respond with simple head gestures like nodding for “yes” or shaking for “no.” To enable this, go to Settings > Siri & Search and turn on Head Gestures under AirPods settings. Additionally, Voice Isolation can be toggled for clearer calls in noisy environments by holding the AirPods button during a call.

Privacy and Security

iOS 18 focuses on improved privacy, introducing Locked Apps, where sensitive apps are hidden behind Face ID or a passcode. To lock an app, go to Settings > Privacy & Security, and toggle the option under App Lock. Hidden Apps provide an additional layer of security by keeping notifications and content out of sight. New Bluetooth permissions also ensure that only trusted devices can connect to your iPhone, reducing data leaks.

Accessibility Features

iOS 18 includes advanced accessibility options such as Eye Tracking and Music Haptics. Eye Tracking lets users control the iPhone with eye movements, a feature that can be activated under Settings > Accessibility > Eye Control. Music Haptics creates vibrations that sync with music, making it possible for users with hearing impairments to feel the beat. Activate this by going to Settings > Sounds & Haptics and turning on Haptic Feedback for Music.

From enhanced widgets to cutting-edge privacy controls, this update ensures your device works harder for you. Whether you’re customizing your experience with Contact Posters or staying protected with new privacy tools, iOS 18 is designed to offer greater control and functionality.