iOS 18: Six new features for the iPhone (without AI)

With the upcoming launch of iOS 18, Apple is once again promising to revolutionize the user experience on the iPhone - as countless reports claim. Although the new AI features will be in the spotlight at WWDC next week, Apple also has a number of other exciting updates planned for the new operating system. Below, we'll highlight six new features in iOS 18 that have nothing to do with AI but can still significantly improve your iPhone experience.

The constant evolution of iOS shows Apple's commitment to providing the best possible experience for its users. With iOS 18, Apple is taking things a step further and bringing features that improve customization and usability. Let's take a closer look at these exciting new features.

Place icons anywhere on the home screen

One of the most notable changes in iOS 18 is reportedly the ability to freely place app icons and widgets on the home screen. This feature gives you the freedom to leave the rigid grid layout and position your apps and widgets however you like. You can leave gaps and make your home screen completely customizable. This flexibility is something we've only seen on Android so far, and it's a welcome addition for iPhone users.

addressing app icons

iOS 18 also brings the ability to customize app icons. You can change the colors of your app icons system-wide. Imagine if you could make all your social apps blue and finance-related apps green. This new feature gives you more control over the appearance of your iPhone and helps you organize your apps by category and identify them more easily.

Apple Maps upgrades

With iOS 18, Apple Maps adds a custom route creation feature. This feature allows you to design your own routes for trips, rather than just choosing from the options suggested by Apple Maps. You have complete control over the details of your trip and can create routes that are tailored exactly to your needs.

Revision of the control center

The Control Center gets a new design in iOS 18. In addition to an updated music widget, HomeKit integration is also improved. iOS currently automatically displays up to six HomeKit accessories in the Control Center, but the layout is often not ideal. iOS 18 should make it easier to quickly find and use the desired controls.

Text effects in messages

Text effects are being added to the Messages app. This new feature allows you to add animations to individual words in a message. These small but subtle details can make your messages more lively and expressive.

New Settings app

Finally, the Settings app is being redesigned in iOS 18. The new user interface offers better organization and a more powerful search function. This makes it even faster and easier to find the settings you are looking for.

iOS 18 Highlights: More freedom and personalization for your iPhone

iOS 18 is set to bring a number of exciting new features that go beyond the much-discussed AI features. The ability to freely place and theme app icons, create custom routes in Apple Maps, and the redesigned Control Center are just some of the highlights. These improvements make iOS 18 an exciting update for all iPhone users. Stay tuned and look forward to an even more personalized and user-friendly experience with your iPhone. (Photo by Unsplash / Miguel Tomás)