Apple’s iOS 18.5 has rolled out numerous updates, making everyday tasks smoother for iPhone users. With a focus on performance, battery conservation, and personalized settings, this update equips users with essential tweaks. Let’s dive into 10 impactful settings you should consider adjusting now.
Optimize Your Mail Experience
If your inbox feels cluttered, it’s time to tame it. iOS 18.5 introduces categories in the Mail app, but they can sometimes complicate things. If you’d rather focus on a chronological view, simply swipe to the far right of the categories and select All Mail. For a completely uncluttered experience, tap the three-dot menu (…) and switch to List View.
Custom Lock Screen Buttons
The bottom corners of your lock screen are prime real estate. In iOS 18, you can now customize the buttonsâ€â€no longer just the camera and flashlight. Whether you want to add quick access to Shazam or toggle Dark Mode, simply hold the lock screen until Customize appears. Dive into the options and choose your preferred settings for easy, one-thumb access to essential functions.
Prioritize Your Notifications
With the new Prioritize Notifications feature found in iPhone settings, Apple Intelligence learns what matters most to you. Whether it’s messages from family or updates from your favorite apps, this feature helps you focus on what truly counts. Navigate to Settings > Notifications to enable this feature and personalize it for your apps.
Maximize the Action Button
The Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro and newer models is a game-changer. Originally dedicated to toggling Silent Mode, you can now configure it for various actions like launching the Camera or using shortcuts. This flexibility is particularly useful for quick tasks. Adjust these settings under Settings > Action Button to tailor it to your needs.
Home Screen Customization
Breaking away from the traditional grid layout, iOS 18 allows you to place app icons anywhere on your home screen. This means your favorite photos aren’t hidden behind icons anymore. Hold your home screen to enter “jiggle mode†and move your icons around freely for a more personalized look. You can also adjust the size of icons and apply Dark Mode across your home screen for a sleek aesthetic.
Revamped Control Center
The Control Center has received a significant overhaul. Now you can reposition controls and resize them for more information at a glance. Access it by swiping down from the top-right corner, then edit as you like. Adding and removing controls means it’s easier than ever to access your favorite settings and tools in just one swipe.
Lock and Hide Apps
Your phone carries sensitive information, and the new ability to lock and hide apps in iOS 18 provides extra security. To lock an app, simply hold its icon and select Require Face ID. If you want to keep it completely hidden, opt for Hide and Require Face ID. The app will vanish from your home screen, tucked away in the Hidden folder within your App Library, ensuring your privacy.
Stop Looping Videos in Photos
If you find looping videos annoying, you can turn it off in the Photos app. Head over to Settings > Photos and disable Loop Videos for a more traditional viewing experience. You can also tweak the Auto-Play Motion feature to enhance your control over video playback.
Enhanced Calendar Features
To improve your productivity, iOS 18 introduces new viewing options in the Calendar app. You can now pinch to zoom in on your Month view and use the new Multi Day view for better insight into your schedule. This feature allows you to see your commitments over two consecutive days without switching layouts.
Improved Dialogue Clarity in TV App
With Enhance Dialogue settings in the TV app, you can now fine-tune audio playback for clearer dialogue. It’s a simple tweak that can significantly enhance your viewing experience, making it easier to follow conversations in movies or shows.
These changes in iOS 18.5 bring thoughtful improvements designed to enhance everyday interactions with your iPhone. From customizing your notifications to personalizing your home screen, these settings help streamline your experience and make your device truly yours.