Apple’s annual iOS updates are eagerly anticipated, and iOS 18 is no exception. While the spotlight often shines on the headline features, there’s a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These subtle enhancements, buried deep within the settings, have the power to significantly improve your iPhone experience. In this article, we delve into 9 of the best hidden features iOS 18 has to offer. We’ll explore how these features can boost productivity, enhance creativity, and streamline your daily interactions with your iPhone.
- Enhanced Spotlight Search: Your iPhone’s New Brain
Spotlight Search has undergone a major overhaul in iOS 18. It’s now smarter, faster, and more versatile. You can use Spotlight to search for apps, contacts, messages, settings, and even web content directly from your home screen. You can also use it to perform calculations, conversions, and translations on the fly. The enhanced Spotlight Search is a game-changer for those who want to quickly access information and perform tasks on their iPhone.
- Live Text in Videos: Interact with the World Around You
iOS 18 brings Live Text to videos. You can now pause a video and interact with any text within it. This means you can copy and paste text, look up definitions, and even translate text from a video. This feature is incredibly useful for students, researchers, and anyone who wants to quickly extract information from videos.
- Focus Filters: Customize Your Focus Modes
Focus Modes are a great way to minimize distractions and stay on task. iOS 18 introduces Focus Filters, which allow you to customize your Focus Modes even further. You can now filter out specific apps, websites, and even people from your notifications when a Focus Mode is active. This feature gives you even more control over your digital environment and helps you stay focused on what matters most.
- Shared Photo Library: Seamlessly Share Memories
iOS 18 makes it easier than ever to share photos and videos with your loved ones. The new Shared Photo Library allows you to create a shared library with up to 5 other people. Everyone in the shared library can contribute photos and videos, and everyone can see and edit the photos and videos in the library. This feature is perfect for families and friends who want to keep their memories organized and accessible.
- Passkeys: A Passwordless Future
iOS 18 takes a big step towards a passwordless future with the introduction of Passkeys. Passkeys are a new type of login credential that is more secure and easier to use than traditional passwords. They use biometric authentication (like Face ID or Touch ID) and your device’s secure enclave to create a unique, unphishable login credential. Passkeys are the future of authentication, and iOS 18 makes it easy to start using them today.
- Redesigned Home Screen Widgets: Personalize Your iPhone
iOS 18 gives you more control over your home screen with redesigned widgets. You can now stack widgets on top of each other, create custom widget layouts, and even add widgets to your lock screen. This feature allows you to personalize your iPhone and access the information that’s most important to you at a glance.
- Improved Dictation: Talk to Your iPhone
iOS 18 improves dictation with on-device processing. This means you can dictate text even when you’re offline. Dictation is also more accurate and supports more languages than ever before. This feature is a must-have for anyone who prefers to talk rather than type.
- Background Sounds: Create a Calming Atmosphere
iOS 18 introduces Background Sounds, which can help you focus, relax, or sleep. You can choose from a variety of sounds, including rain, ocean waves, and white noise. You can also adjust the volume and balance of the sounds to create the perfect atmosphere. This feature is perfect for anyone who wants to create a more calming and peaceful environment.
- Visual Look Up: Learn More About the World Around You
iOS 18 expands Visual Look Up to recognize plants, animals, and landmarks. You can now point your camera at a plant or animal and get information about it, or point your camera at a landmark and get its history and location. This feature is a great way to learn more about the world around you.
These are just a few of the many hidden features that iOS 18 has to offer. By taking the time to explore and experiment with these features, you can unlock the full potential of your iPhone and discover new ways to boost your productivity, creativity, and overall enjoyment of your device. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring today!
