close
close

iOS 18 is here: Check out the six must-have features that will transform your device

Posted on by darion

With iOS 18, Apple is making sure that anyone with an eligible device can enjoy the latest features, even if they don’t upgrade to the new iPhone 16 series. If your current phone supports iOS 18, you can get access to a number of exciting software updates without having to buy a new device.

One of the most impressive changes in iOS 18 is the ability to fully customize your home screen. For the first time, you can place app icons anywhere you want, creating an arrangement that reflects your personal style. You can even give your app icons a hue that matches your wallpaper or have them change automatically throughout the day. To get started, simply press and hold the screen, tap the Edit button, and adjust the icon sizes and background brightness to your liking.

The revamped Control Center is another exciting addition. It allows you to completely customize your toggles, making it easier to organize and prioritize your most frequently used controls. Simply swipe down from the top right corner to access it, long-press, and then reorder or resize the controls to suit your needs. This flexibility is sure to please anyone who wanted a more customized experience.

The standout feature is the new “Tap to Cash” option in Apple Wallet. You can now transfer money by simply touching two iPhones together, provided they’re both running iOS 18. This feature uses the iPhone’s NFC technology to provide secure transactions without sharing personal information, making it a convenient option for quick cash transfers, especially among friends and family.

If you use voice notes a lot, you’ll love the new AI transcription feature. It provides live transcriptions as you record, eliminating the need for third-party apps. This is especially useful for students, journalists, or anyone who needs to capture meeting notes quickly and efficiently.

The Notes app has also been improved, allowing users to enter math problems directly and see the results instantly. This makes budgeting and calculations a piece of cake, helping you track your expenses without the hassle of complicated spreadsheets.

The Photos app has also received a significant update. While it still feels familiar, new auto-grouping features help you organize your photos better. You can easily find collections like Recent Days, Pinned Collections, and Memories. However, some users have noted that the updated interface feels a bit cluttered, so Apple may need to refine it to make it easier to navigate.

Finally, iOS 18 improves security by allowing users to lock down sensitive apps with Face ID or Touch ID. This added layer of protection is especially valuable for those living in areas where there is a higher risk of digital fraud, giving users peace of mind when using banking and payment apps.

iOS 18 is packed with features that improve the user experience, allowing current device owners to enjoy the latest innovations without having to upgrade. Whether it’s customizing your home screen or increasing security, there’s a lot to discover in this impressive update.

SEE ALSO: Google to start labeling AI-generated search content this year for greater transparency