New in iOS 18.4: Use ambient music in the Control Center

With iOS 18.4, Apple is introducing a new feature right in your iPhone's Control Center: Ambient Music. The idea behind it is simple – you select a mood or activity, tap the corresponding icon, and instantly get a matching playlist. It works without an additional app, without a subscription, and is easy to use.

The Ambient Music feature is part of a general trend at Apple to make the iPhone more focused on health, well-being, and everyday usability. Whether you want to fall asleep, concentrate better, or simply unwind for a moment – with iOS 18.4, you can now do this directly from Control Center. Once you've installed the update, you can enable the feature and customize it to your preferences. You can choose from four themes, each with multiple playlists.

How to install iOS 18.4

To use the new feature, you need to install iOS 18.4. Here's how:

Open the Settings app
Tap General
Select Software Update
Once iOS 18.4 appears, tap Download and Install

Add ambient music to Control Center

After the update, you'll need to enable the feature first. You can do this via the Control Center:

Open the Control Center
Tap the plus sign at the top left
Select Add Control
Scroll down to the Ambient Music section
Add the desired controls

You can add one, several, or all four themes at once.

iOS 18.4 Ambient Music — Image: Apfelpatient

The four subject areas at a glance

Apple has divided the ambient music into four moods or application areas. Each area launches a specific playlist that fits the respective situation.

Chill – for relaxing music
Productivity – for focused work
Sleep – for soothing sounds before falling asleep
Well-being – for a balanced mood

Simply tap the respective icon in the Control Center, and the music will start playing immediately. The feature is free, runs directly on iOS, and doesn't require an Apple Music subscription.

Playlists and customization

For each topic, you can choose from four different playlists. Here's how to switch between the lists:

Open the Control Center
Tap the added ambient music control
Tap the name of the current playlist
Select a different playlist from the dropdown menu

Optionally, you can also create your own playlist if you don't like the predefined ones. This is also done directly via the same controls in the Control Center.

Additional functions and notes

If you have a newer iPhone, the Ambient Music feature will also be displayed in the Dynamic Island. This allows you to see what's playing and intervene directly while using other apps. The music controls also appear on the screen as soon as you activate a playlist. As mentioned, a subscription isn't necessary—everything works directly through the system.

How ambient music helps you in everyday life

The new Ambient Music feature in iOS 18.4 is a small but practical feature that can make your everyday life more pleasant. It's easy to use, customizable, and useful in many situations—whether you want to concentrate, relax, or simply need some background music—have fun trying it out! Your accessories, your choice—you'll find a wide selection in our Amazon Storefront , including for HomeKit enthusiasts. (Image: Apfelpatient)