Apple is gradually evolving its accessibility features. iOS 18 introduced Music Haptics—a feature originally intended for people with hearing impairments but quickly proven useful for all users. Now, with iOS 19, Apple is taking this feature a step further, expanding its capabilities. The changes have been officially announced and are expected to be available with the new operating system in fall 2025.
Music Haptics makes music tangible on the iPhone . When enabled, the iPhone's Taptic Engine responds with taps, vibrations, and other haptic signals while songs are playing. The intensity and timing of these signals are based on the music. The feature is supported in Apple Music, Shazam, and select third-party apps—but only when the iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi or cellular network. iOS 19 introduces two enhancements to Music Haptics. Both relate to customizing haptic feedback.
Only vibrations for the singing
One of the biggest new features in iOS 19 is the ability to limit haptic feedback to the vocals in a song. This means you won't get vibrations for the entire instrumental section, but only for the vocal sections. This can be helpful if you want to focus on the vocals or simply want to reduce the vibrations without turning the feature off entirely.
Intensity can be adjusted
The second improvement concerns the feedback strength adjustment. You can now individually adjust the intensity of vibrations, tapping impulses, and textured feedback. Whether gentle or strong – you can determine how strongly you want to feel the music on your iPhone. This feature makes Music Haptics more versatile and more adaptable to personal preferences.
Compatibility
Music Haptics works with iOS 19 on the iPhone 12 and newer models. The current version of the iPhone SE is not supported. An active internet connection—either via Wi-Fi or cellular—remains required for use.
When will iOS 19 be released?
iOS 19 will be unveiled at Apple's WWDC keynote on June 9, 2025. Release to all users is scheduled for September as usual. Once the update is available, you can install it via iPhone Settings and try out the new Music Haptics features. (Image: Shutterstock / Charles-McClintock Wilson)
