Apple’s iOS 18.5 brings notable enhancements that can transform how you interact with your iPhone. While many users eagerly await the features teased at the recent Worldwide Developers Conference, several hidden tweaks in the current version can significantly enhance your user experience. These changes, ranging from improved battery life to better organization of notifications, can be game-changers. Here are the ten essential iPhone settings you should consider adjusting in iOS 18.5 to optimize your device usage.
Turn Off Categories in the Mail App
The Mail app has introduced a new categories feature, which sorts your emails into Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions. However, if this system doesn’t suit your style, you can streamline your inbox by reverting to a simpler, chronological view. Swipe to the right and tap All Mail for a consolidated view, or disable categories completely by selecting the three-dot menu (…) in the top-right corner and choosing List View.
Change the Default Buttons on the Lock Screen
iOS 18 has revamped the customization options for the lock screen, allowing you to change the default flashlight and camera buttons. You can now replace them with other functions like Shazam, Dark Mode, or your Wallet. To customize, press and hold the lock screen until you see the Customize button, select Lock Screen, and adjust your buttons as desired.
Prioritize Important Notifications
With the new Prioritize Notifications feature available in iOS 18.4, your iPhone can now intelligently filter notifications based on what it considers important. Navigate to Settings > Notifications and enable this feature under Apple Intelligence. It helps prioritize texts from contacts while downplaying less relevant alerts, streamlining your focus.
Set Up Tasks with the Action Button
The Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro and later models introduces customizable options for daily tasks. By default, it controls Silent Mode, but now you can set it to perform multiple actions like launching the Camera app or navigating Apple TV. Access Settings > Action Button to choose your preferred actions and maximize its utility.
Redesign Your Home Screen
iOS 18 takes home screen organization to the next level by allowing for free positioning of app icons, freeing you from the rigid grid layout. This means your favorite wallpapers won’t be hidden behind icons. Rearranging apps has never been easier—simply enter “jiggle mode” and drag icons to desired locations. You can also take advantage of new Dark Mode options for a fresh aesthetic.
Revamp Control Center
Control Center’s functionality has evolved, offering more customization than ever before. You can rearrange controls, resize them, and add new functionalities across multiple screens. To enter edit mode, swipe down to reveal Control Center, touch and hold the screen, and start customizing controls to suit your needs.
Hide Sensitive Apps
Protecting your privacy just got easier with iOS 18’s feature that allows you to lock or hide apps. By holding down an app icon, you can require authentication to access it and even move it to a Hidden folder within the App Library. This ensures a layer of security for your sensitive information.
Disable Loop Videos in Photos
If you’re tired of videos in your Photos app replaying automatically, iOS 18 has an option for you. Head to Settings > Photos, find the Loop Videos setting, and turn it off to stop automatic replaying. You can also disable Auto-Play Motion for an enhanced viewing experience.
Enhance Your Calendar Viewing Experience
New features in the Calendar app allow for a more user-friendly experience. In the Month view, you can now pinch to zoom in and out for detailed insights. Furthermore, the Multi Day view enables you to see two consecutive days efficiently, making scheduling easier and more intuitive.
Improve Dialogue Clarity in TV App
The TV app now includes features to enhance dialogue clarity in films and shows. By tapping the More button while watching, you can adjust audio settings to either Enhance or Boost dialogue, significantly improving your viewing experience.
While these new features in iOS 18.5 might seem minor, they can have an outsized impact on your daily iPhone usage, enhancing both functionality and enjoyment. Keep an eye out for future updates as Apple continues to refine and enhance its mobile experience.