Now Is the Time to Change These 8 iPhone Settings in iOS 18.2

[Gigabyte Computer Solutions]

 

Apple’s yearly iOS updates often bring exciting features to the table—such as Apple Intelligence and smarter notifications—but many changes can fly under the radar. If you’ve recently installed iOS 18.2.1, you may not realize the small tweaks that could make a huge difference in how you use your iPhone. These eight settings should be at the top of your list to explore, personalize, and optimize your experience.

1. Customize Lock Screen Buttons
For years, Apple users have asked for the ability to customize the flashlight and camera buttons on the lock screen. In iOS 18, this is finally possible. You can now replace these shortcuts with other useful features, such as Shazam, Airplane Mode, or Wallet. Alternatively, you can remove the shortcuts altogether for a cleaner lock screen look.

How to customize your lock screen buttons:

Touch and hold the lock screen until you see the option to Customize. Use Face ID or Touch ID to unlock.
Tap Customize under the Lock Screen section.
Remove a button by tapping the minus (–) sign, or tap the plus (+) sign to replace it with a different shortcut.

2. Redefine the Action Button
Users of the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 Pro can take full advantage of the updated Action button in iOS 18. Previously limited to functions like toggling Silent Mode or launching the camera, the Action button now supports shortcuts for launching apps, controlling home automation, and even combining multiple actions into one tap.

How to redefine the Action button:

Go to Settings > Action Button.
Choose an action from the list or set up a custom shortcut that suits your needs.
For instance, you can configure the button to activate Shazam while simultaneously turning on Do Not Disturb and dimming your screen.

3. Arrange Home Screen Icons Freely
Gone are the days when apps had to snap into a grid. iOS 18 introduces the freedom to position your home screen icons anywhere you like, which is especially useful for showcasing your wallpaper or creating a minimalist aesthetic.

How to customize your home screen layout:

Enter “jiggle mode” by long-pressing anywhere on the home screen.
Drag app icons to your desired position. You can leave gaps or group apps at the bottom of the screen for easier access.
You can also convert icons into widgets by resizing them in jiggle mode.
Pro tip: Use the new Tinted Icons setting to apply a cohesive color scheme to all your app icons and folders.

4. Revamp Control Center
The Control Center in iOS 18 is more customizable than ever, with the ability to resize controls, rearrange layouts, and add new features across multiple screens.

How to update your Control Center:

Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (or swipe up on older iPhone models with a home button).
Tap the plus (+) sign to add new controls, or touch and hold an existing control to resize or reposition it.
Experiment with multi-screen layouts to organize controls by category, such as media, smart home, or productivity tools.

5. Lock and Hide Apps
One of the most requested privacy features is finally here: the ability to lock individual apps with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. For additional security, you can hide these apps in a secure folder within the App Library.

How to lock apps:

Long-press an app icon and select Require Face ID.
To hide the app, tap Hide and Require Face ID. The app will move to a hidden folder in the App Library.

6. Explore Larger Home Screen Icons
If you find standard-sized app icons too small or distracting, iOS 18 lets you enlarge them while removing labels for a cleaner look. This feature is especially helpful for users who rely on visuals rather than app names to navigate their devices.

How to enable larger icons:

Enter jiggle mode by long-pressing the home screen.
Tap Customize and select Large Icons.
Adjust the size and spacing to your preference.

7. Leverage Enhanced Widgets
Widgets in iOS 18 are smarter and more functional than ever. Many apps now double as widgets, offering dynamic content directly on your home screen. For example, the Maps widget can display shortcuts for navigation to frequently visited places, while the Calendar widget lets you RSVP to events with one tap.

How to use enhanced widgets:

Long-press an app icon and choose the Resize option.
Drag the widget to adjust its size or reposition it on your home screen.

8. Embrace Dynamic Wallpapers
Dynamic wallpapers are more advanced in iOS 18, adjusting their brightness and color temperature throughout the day. You can even use photos that automatically adjust their exposure to match your environment.

How to customize your wallpaper:

In Customize mode, select Dynamic Wallpapers from the gallery.
Enable Dark Mode for Icons to blend app icons seamlessly with your wallpaper.
Use the eyedropper tool to match icon colors to your background for a cohesive look.

Final Thoughts
iOS 18.2 introduces a wealth of features that can make your iPhone more personal and user-friendly. Whether it’s locking individual apps, revamping your home screen, or taking advantage of dynamic wallpapers, these updates offer something for everyone. Take the time to explore these settings and make your device truly your own.

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