Apple’s iOS 18 is packed with a plethora of new features and enhancements that promise to elevate your iPhone experience. While many of these features were highlighted during the WWDC 2024 keynote, there are several hidden gems that Apple didn’t spotlight. In this article, we’ll uncover the best hidden features of iOS 18 that you probably didn’t know about, providing you with tips and tricks to make the most out of your device.
Enhanced Privacy Features
App Lock and Hidden Apps
iOS 18 introduces a new level of privacy with the ability to lock apps using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. This feature ensures that sensitive information within the app remains hidden from other parts of the system, such as search and notifications. Additionally, you can now hide apps by moving them to a hidden apps folder, which requires biometric authentication to access.
Private Space
Similar to Android’s Private Space, iOS 18 allows users to create a secure environment where apps and data are hidden from the main interface. This feature is perfect for those who want to keep certain information private without having to delete or uninstall apps.
Improved Messaging Experience
Animated Effects and Tapback Enhancements
The Messages app in iOS 18 has received several updates, including the ability to add animated effects to any letter, word, or phrase. These effects are suggested as you type, making your messages more expressive. Additionally, the Tapback feature now supports any emoji or sticker, allowing for more personalized reactions.
Hidden iMessage Features
Many users are unaware of the hidden features within iMessage. For instance, you can long-press the send button in a message draft to choose a bubble or screen effect. Moreover, over 340 code words and phrases across more than 50 different languages can trigger full-screen animated effects, adding a fun element to your conversations.
Advanced Photo Management
Collections and Pinned Collections
The Photos app in iOS 18 has been revamped with a new Collections feature that automatically organizes your photos into specific topics, such as Recent Days, People and Pets, and Trips. You can also pin specific collections for quick access, ensuring that your favorite memories are always at your fingertips.
Visual Look Up Enhancements
Visual Look Up, a built-in tool in the Photos app, has been enhanced to identify a wider range of objects, including words, plants, monuments, and more. This feature allows you to quickly gather information about the items in your photos, making it easier to learn and explore.
Smart Dialer
iOS 18 finally brings a smart dialer to the iPhone, a feature that Android users have enjoyed for years. The T9 (Text on 9 keys) dialer allows you to type a contact’s name using the number pad, making it easier to find and call your contacts. For example, typing 64447 will bring up the contact ‘Mihir’.
Personalization Options
Multicolored Clock
Building on the customization options introduced in iOS 16, iOS 18 allows you to personalize your lock screen clock with a multicolored option. Whether you’re celebrating Pride or simply prefer a rainbow-colored clock, this new feature adds a touch of personalization to your device.
Unit Conversion
iOS 18 includes a handy unit conversion feature that can convert various units, including currency, weight, speed, and more. This feature is integrated into the system, making it easy to perform conversions without needing a separate app.
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”
Steve Jobs
Gaming and Audio Enhancements
Advanced Sound Design
Game developers are leveraging the new API in iOS 18 to bring advanced sound design to their games. This includes voice quality improvements for in-game chat and streaming, delivering 16-bit, 48kHz audio, and support for dynamic head tracking. These enhancements provide a more immersive gaming experience.
Low Latency Audio
For mobile gamers, iOS 18 offers the best wireless audio latency ever with AirPods Pro. This improvement gives gamers an edge by ensuring that audio cues are delivered with minimal delay, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Conclusion
iOS 18 is packed with hidden features that enhance privacy, improve messaging, and offer advanced photo management, among other benefits. By exploring these lesser-known features, you can unlock the full potential of your iPhone and enjoy a more personalized and efficient user experience. Stay tuned for more updates as Apple continues to refine and expand its operating system.
