iOS 18's Best-Kept Secrets: 7 Settings to Change ASAP

Apple's iOS 18 is packed with features that can transform the way you use your iPhone. From customizable home screens to enhanced privacy controls, there's a lot to explore. But with so many new options, it's easy to overlook some of the most impactful settings. Here are seven essential tweaks you should make right now to optimize your iOS 18 experience.

1. Customize Your Lock Screen Shortcuts

For years, iPhone users have been stuck with the flashlight and camera icons on the lock screen—with no option to change them. iOS 18 finally lets you swap these out for shortcuts that better suit your needs.

Photo via Gadget Hacks // With iOS 18, you can easily adjust your lock screen shortcuts. Say goodbye to that annoying flashlight button!

How to Customize:

• Access Lock Screen Customization:
• Press and hold anywhere on your lock screen until the "Customize" button appears.
• Unlock your phone using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode if prompted.
• Edit Shortcuts:
• Tap "Customize" and select "Lock Screen."
• Tap the minus (–) icon to remove a shortcut.
• Tap the plus (+) icon to add a new one from options like Alarm, Wallet, or Dark Mode.
• Save Your Changes:
• Tap "Done" when you're satisfied with your new shortcuts.

2. Set Up the New Action Button

If you've upgraded to the new iPhone 16, you've probably noticed the new Action Button replacing the traditional mute switch. This button is highly customizable and can perform various tasks beyond toggling Silent Mode.

Photo via iPhone Blog // Don't forget to customize your Action Button settings on iOS 18.

How to Configure:

• Navigate to Settings:
• Go to Settings > Action Button.
• Choose Your Action:
• Swipe through the available options like Camera, Voice Memos, or Accessibility features.
• For actions like "Control Center" or "Shortcuts," tap "Choose" to specify the exact function.
• Test It Out:
• Press and hold the Action Button to ensure it performs your chosen task.

3. Personalize Your Home Screen Layout

iOS 18 offers unprecedented freedom in organizing your home screen. You can now place app icons almost anywhere, giving you control over your iPhone's appearance like never before.Photo via WIRED // You've probably already done it, but don't forget to adjust your home screen layout on iOS 18!

Tips for Customization:

• Rearrange Icons Freely:
• Press and hold on the home screen to enter "jiggle mode."
• Drag apps to your desired locations—even leaving gaps for aesthetic appeal.
• Expand Apps into Widgets:
• Some apps can be resized into widgets directly from the home screen.
• Press and hold an app icon, then select a larger size from the menu.
• Apply Dark Mode or Tinted Icons:
• In "Customize" mode, you can switch between Light, Dark, or Tinted icon styles.
• Adjust hue and luminosity to match your wallpaper or personal preference.

4. Revamp Control Center

The Control Center is more versatile in iOS 18, allowing you to rearrange controls, adjust their sizes, and even add new ones across multiple pages.Photo via 9to5Mac // With iOS 18, you can easily adjust your iPhones Control Center layout.

How to Customize:

• Access Control Center:
• Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen.
• Enter Edit Mode:
• Press and hold anywhere in the Control Center or tap the plus (+) icon.
• Modify Controls:
• Drag controls to rearrange them.
• Tap the minus (–) icon to remove unwanted controls.
• Expand controls by dragging the corner to reveal more functionality.
• Add New Controls:
• Tap "Add a Control" and select from options like Screen Recording or Accessibility Shortcuts.

5. Lock or Hide Sensitive Apps

Privacy is a significant concern, and iOS 18 provides tools to keep your data secure. You can now lock individual apps or hide them entirely from your home screen.Photo via MacRumors // Now with iOS 18, you can lock and hide any apps that you like!

To Lock an App:

• Select the App:
• Press and hold the app icon you wish to lock.
• Enable Authentication:
• Tap "Require Face ID," "Require Touch ID," or "Require Passcode."
• Confirm:
• Tap the confirmation prompt to secure the app.

To Hide an App:

• Select the App:
• Press and hold the app icon.
• Hide and Secure:
• Choose "Hide and Require Face ID."
• Access Hidden Apps:
• Go to the App Library and tap the "Hidden" folder.
• Authenticate to view and open hidden apps.

6. Adjust Calendar Views

Managing your schedule is easier with new Calendar app features.Photo via MacRumors // The Apple Calendar app is more customizable than ever with iOS 18!

Pinch-to-Zoom in Month View:

• Zoom In or Out:
• In Month view, pinch with two fingers to see more or less detail.
• Zoom in to see event names and times without leaving the Month view.

Multi-Day View:

• Switch Views:
• In Day view, tap "View" at the top.
• Select "Multi Day" to see two consecutive days side by side.

7. Enhance Dialogue in Videos

Struggling to hear dialogue over background noise in movies or shows? The new "Enhance Dialogue" feature in the TV app can help.Photo via CNET // "Enhance Dialogue" is an incredibly helpful and underrated feature in iOS 18 that you should definitely try out!

How to Enable:

• While Watching a Video:
• Tap the screen to reveal controls.
• Tap the "More" (...) button.
• Adjust Audio:
• Expand the "Audio" section.
• Tap "Enhance Dialogue" and choose between "Enhance" or "Boost."

Final Thoughts

By tweaking these settings, you can personalize your iPhone to better suit your lifestyle and preferences. From enhancing privacy to improving daily usability, iOS 18 offers a wealth of options that are worth exploring. So dive into your settings and make your iPhone truly your own.

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Flynn Lo Faro

Team Leader / Editor-in-Chief

Flynn has been covering technology for over a decade, with a deep focus on all things Apple. As the Editor-in-Chief of Apple Scoop, Flynn ensures the team delivers the most accurate and up-to-date information on Apple news, rumors, and product releases. His passion for tech journalism and editorial expertise guide the site’s vision and maintain its high standards.

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