Hidden iOS 18 Features You Should Know

The release of iOS 18 has brought numerous features and upgrades to the iPhone, some of which Apple has kept out of the spotlight. Beyond major updates like the redesigned home screen customization and improvements in Maps, there are lesser-known features that add considerable value for users. Here’s a closer look at some hidden iOS 18 features that make using an iPhone even more enjoyable.

Restart Your iPhone Directly from Control Center

iOS 18 allows users to restart their iPhone without pressing any physical buttons. The redesigned Control Center now includes a virtual power button in the top-right corner. Simply swipe down from the top-right, press and hold the power icon, and you’ll be prompted to slide to power off. You’ll still need to use the physical button to turn your iPhone back on, but this feature offers a convenient alternative to restart.

Share Wi-Fi Passwords Using QR Codes

Sharing Wi-Fi passwords is more flexible on iOS 18, allowing users to generate a QR code to share network access without the need for direct contact details or reliance on Apple-only devices. By navigating to the Passwords app, selecting a Wi-Fi network, and generating a QR code, anyone can connect simply by scanning the code with their camera.

Adjust the Width of Your Flashlight Beam

For iPhones equipped with the dynamic island feature, users can now adjust not only the intensity but also the beam width of the flashlight. This new setting lets users widen or narrow the light beam for specific needs, such as illuminating a broad area or focusing on a small spot. Swipe up and down to adjust brightness, or left and right to adjust beam width for custom lighting.

Voice Memo Transcription and Search

iOS 18 brings transcription capabilities to the Voice Memos app, making audio notes searchable by text. Users can transcribe memos by selecting the transcription option after recording, which will allow them to search specific words across their voice notes. Transcriptions integrate with iOS search functions, making memos more accessible than ever.

Clean Up Your Home Screen with Hidden App Labels

If app labels make your home screen feel cluttered, iOS 18 lets you hide these labels for a minimalist look. In jiggle mode, users can adjust icon size and remove text labels, streamlining the appearance of both individual icons and folders.

Quickly Convert Apps to Widgets

iOS 18 makes it easier to convert compatible apps into widgets directly from the home screen. By long-pressing an app, users can instantly switch to a widget format if the app supports it. Reverting back is equally simple, providing quick access to relevant information without navigating the widget edit menu.

Discreet Song Identification with the Action Button

For music enthusiasts, iOS 18 introduces a way to discreetly identify songs without using Siri or overtly activating Shazam. By assigning Music Recognition to the Action Button, users can hold down the button to have their iPhone identify a song through the dynamic island without alerting others to the search.

Find Handwritten Text and Illustrations in Photos

The Photos app now supports searching images with handwritten text or illustrations, thanks to enhanced categorization in iOS 18. New categories allow users to find specific content, including scanned notes or sketches, further improving photo organization and retrieval.

Share Specific Podcast Sections

iOS 18 allows users to share specific sections of podcasts with friends. By pausing at the desired moment and choosing to share from the current time, users can ensure their friends receive the podcast link starting at the intended moment. This capability offers a precise way to share memorable podcast moments with others.