Since its announcement at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, iOS 18 has been captivating tech enthusiasts with its array of new features and improvements. Now that the fifth public beta has been released, many users, including myself, have had the chance to explore these updates firsthand. Here’s an in-depth look at the notable features of iOS 18 and why you might want to consider trying the public beta.
Home Screen Customization: Personalize Your iPhone Experience
One of the standout features of iOS 18 is the enhanced home screen customization. With the public beta, Apple allows users to tweak their home screens like never before. You can now rearrange app icons and choose between Small and Large icon sizes, the latter of which removes app names for a cleaner look.
How to Customize Your Home Screen
- Enter Jiggle Mode: Long-press on a blank area of your home screen until the apps start shaking.
- Access Customize Options: Tap “Edit” in the top-right corner and select “Customize.”
- Select Your Preferences: Choose icon sizes, enable Dark Mode, or apply a tinted color to your app icons.
Additionally, iOS 18 introduces the ability to turn app icons into widgets and resize them. This feature enhances the visual appeal of your home screen and allows you to display images without blocking them with app names or icons.
Revamped Lock Screen: More Control Over Your Shortcuts
iOS 18 also brings significant changes to the lock screen. Previously fixed shortcuts for the camera and flashlight can now be customized or removed entirely. You can add new shortcuts such as Translate or Quick Note, or even use the Open App feature to access your favorite apps directly from the lock screen.
How to Customize Your Lock Screen Shortcuts
- Go to Settings: Navigate to Settings > Wallpaper.
- Tap Customize: Choose the lock screen you wish to modify.
- Adjust Shortcuts: Remove or change the default camera and flashlight icons.
Enhanced Control Center: Tailor Your Access
Control Center customization has been taken to the next level in iOS 18. You can now adjust the size and position of controls and add new ones beyond the previous 23 available options.
Customizing Control Center
- Open Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen.
- Modify Controls: Tap the plus (+) button to add or resize controls.
- Access the Catalog: Use the Add a Control button to explore additional options.
New Features in Messages: Schedule and Spice Up Your Texts
The Messages app gets a significant upgrade with iOS 18, including the long-awaited Send Later feature. You can schedule messages to be sent at a later time, which is perfect for avoiding late-night texts.
How to Use Send Later in Messages
- Open a Chat: Tap the plus sign next to the text field.
- Select Send Later: Choose the date and time for the message to be sent.
- Manage Scheduled Messages: Edit or delete scheduled messages as needed.
Additionally, new text effects and expanded Tapbacks (emoji reactions) enhance the expressiveness of your messages.
New Updates in Photos and Passwords Apps
The Photos app has been redesigned to streamline photo management, and the new Passwords app now offers features like saving verification codes and sharing Wi-Fi passwords via QR codes.
Exploring the New Passwords App
- Access Passwords: Find the new Passwords app on your device.
- Utilize Features: Save verification codes, manage deleted passwords, and share Wi-Fi passwords with ease.
Feature Comparison Table
To help you quickly see what’s new in iOS 18, here’s a comparison table of key features:
| Feature | iOS 17 | iOS 18 |
|---|---|---|
| Home Screen Customization | Limited icon arrangement | Customizable icon sizes, widgets |
| Lock Screen Shortcuts | Fixed shortcuts | Customizable and removable shortcuts |
| Control Center | Fixed options | Adjustable size and position of controls |
| Messages Scheduling | Not available | Send Later feature for scheduling texts |
| Photos App | Basic photo management | Redesigned interface with new features |
| Passwords App | Basic password management | Save verification codes, share Wi-Fi QR codes |
Conclusion: Is iOS 18 Public Beta Worth It?
The iOS 18 public beta offers a plethora of exciting features and customization options. While the beta may come with some bugs and reduced battery life, it provides a unique opportunity to experience Apple’s latest innovations before the final release. If you’re eager to try out these new features, consider downloading the beta on a secondary device to avoid potential issues with your primary iPhone.
For more information on iOS 18 and other tech updates, stay tuned to our blog!
