Last week, Apple released iOS 18.4, bringing along some fresh features and improvements. This update has introduced new emojis, a recipe section in Apple News, and a revamped Control Center.
While there’s buzz around what’s missing—like the much-anticipated Siri update—there’s a lot to love in this iteration, especially if you own one of the latest iPhones.
Handy New Features in Control Center
The Control Center is now even more helpful with new shortcuts. Here are three standout updates from iOS 18.4:
1. Ambient Music Control
This is a game-changer for those who love background music while working or relaxing. The ambient music feature allows you to play different genres, like "Sleep," "Chill," "Productivity," and "Wellbeing," directly from your Control Center. You can customize your Control Center to make access quick and easy.
My colleague, Philip Michaels, raves about this addition, noting that each genre creates a unique atmosphere. For instance, the "Productivity" playlist has steady beats perfect for focus, while "Chill" offers a more relaxed vibe. You can also place these controls on your lock screen for even faster access.
2. Visual Intelligence
The newly added Visual Intelligence feature allows you to use your iPhone’s camera for live searches. It was initially available only on iPhone 16 models but now works on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max as well. Just point your camera at something, and it can fetch information, translate text, or even recognize events on flyers. This feature integrates AI capabilities like ChatGPT to enhance your experience.
3. Talk to Siri
This feature makes interacting with Siri even smoother. By choosing "Talk to Siri" in the Control Center, you can engage the virtual assistant through voice commands. This complements the existing "Type to Siri" option, which lets you communicate via text. Though a minor upgrade, it makes accessing Siri more approachable.
Interestingly, plans for a major Siri overhaul were put on hold. Rumors suggest that significant changes may not arrive until 2026. This delay has left many users eager for improvements to the virtual assistant.
Final Thoughts
iOS 18.4 brings essential upgrades that make everyday tasks easier. Features like ambient music and Visual Intelligence show how Apple is enhancing user experience by integrating more technology into our daily routines. While we wait for the promised Siri updates, there’s still plenty to explore with this latest software.
For continuous updates and tips on software features, visit reliable tech news sources like TechCrunch for the latest insights.