When Apple released iOS 18 in 2024, it transformed the Control Center, providing users with enhanced options for their iPhones. With the launch of iOS 18.4 in March, new controls were added, introducing the exciting Visual Intelligence feature, specifically for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models.
If you’re using an iPhone that isn’t equipped with Apple Intelligence, you’ll still benefit from the updated music controls. These enhancements offer quick access to playlists tailored to various moods, whether you need relaxation, focus, or a little help drifting off to sleep.
Here’s what you need to know about these new features and how they can optimize your Control Center experience.
New Apple Intelligence Controls
Currently, only users with an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or the iPhone 16 lineup can leverage the Apple Intelligence capabilities. With iOS 18.4, those users can now access three new dedicated controls: Talk to Siri, Type to Siri, and Visual Intelligence.
To find these controls:
1. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your Home Screen to open your Control Center.
2. Tap the plus (+) sign in the top-left corner.
3. Select Add a Control.
You can search for “Apple Intelligence” using the search bar or scroll to the Apple Intelligence & Siri section. Tapping on any of these controls will add them to your Control Center. The addition of the Visual Intelligence control extends this advanced capability beyond the iPhone 16 lineup, making it available to more users, enhancing their ability to interact with their devices.
However, it’s important to remember that Visual Intelligence, like other AI tools, can occasionally be inaccurate, so always double-check the information it presents.
iOS 18.4 also includes new music controls geared towards enhancing your daily experiences.
Ambient Music Controls
The update has introduced four new Ambient Music controls to the Control Center: Sleep, Chill, Productivity, and Wellbeing. Each control links to a dedicated playlist designed to cater to your specific needs. For instance, the Sleep control plays soothing sounds to help you unwind.
Research indicates that certain ambient sounds can significantly aid concentration and relaxation. According to mental health experts, specific music types not only help facilitate sleep but also enhance cognitive functions like learning in distracting environments. Therefore, these new options can genuinely support your health and productivity.
To access these controls:
1. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your Home Screen to open your Control Center.
2. Tap the plus (+) sign in the top-left corner.
3. Select Add a Control.
Look for the Ambient Music section and tap to add whichever controls enhance your experience. Once added, simply click on any control to start your playlist.
To change the playlist for a specific control:
1. Open the Control Center.
2. Tap the plus (+) sign.
3. Locate the Ambient Music control you wish to modify.
4. Tap on the playlist next to Playlist.
A dropdown menu will appear, allowing you to select alternative playlists. If you’re in the Sleep control, for example, you might find options like Restful Notes and Lo-Fi Snooze. You can also choose music from your library. Just tap to make your selection.
Beyond simple ambient sounds, Apple now enables users to transform their iPhones into effective music machines tailored to any mood. This strategic move may position Apple as a go-to choice for background music amid growing competition from services like Spotify and YouTube.
With each new update, Apple continues to refine the capabilities of its devices, improving user interaction and enhancing everyday tasks. Keep an eye out for future iOS features as they further elevate your experience with Apple technology.