Apple’s WWDC introduced some exciting changes, notably the fresh design of the Photos app and the highly anticipated iOS 18 update. As a devoted iPhone user, I’m thrilled about numerous enhancements, yet a few features of this new update leave much to be desired.
As a self-proclaimed expert on getting the most out of my devices, I’ve discovered three specific iOS 18 features that could use a fix. If you find these features just as frustrating, here’s what you can do about them while still enjoying your iPhone experience.
Declutter the Photos App in iOS 18
Let’s get straight to it: the overhaul of the Photos app in iOS 18 isn’t my cup of tea. While it’s designed with collections in mind, it feels overwhelmingly cluttered. I don’t need reminders of my last vacation or wallpaper suggestions cluttering my main camera roll.
Luckily, Apple allows customization of the Photos app. Upon first opening, you’re greeted with a grid of your media, but without the familiar navigation bar. Instead, you’re met with collections based on recent captures and shared moments.
To streamline your view, swipe to the bottom of your Photos app and tap Customize and Reorder. Here, you can unselect unwanted collections. Personally, I prefer hiding wallpaper suggestions and similar distractions, opting instead for Media Types and Utilities. This way, I maintain access to what I need without the clutter.
Simplify Your Control Center Experience
The Control Center is my go-to for quick settings like Wi-Fi and Do Not Disturb. However, iOS 18 added multiple pages of controls, which I find unnecessary. I often trigger these extra pages by accident when trying to swipe out, leading to frustration.
Fortunately, there’s a way to revert back to a single-page Control Center. Open the Control Center by swiping down, then access additional pages and press on a blank area. Tap the remove control button (-) to delete any extra pages. After this, you’ll enjoy a cleaner and more efficient experience without the clutter.
Disable Type to Siri Feature in iOS 18
With iOS 18.2, Siri got a visual upgrade, utilizing a color-changing glow instead of the old orb. While this is a refreshing change, I discovered the new Type to Siri feature is prone to accidental activation, especially if I’m tapping around my screen.
Luckily, you can disable Type to Siri without turning off the assistant entirely. Navigate to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri > Talk & Type to Siri and toggle off Type to Siri. Enjoy using Siri without the risk of accidental prompts.