WWDC 2024 is about to kick off on June 10. The introduction to iOS 18 will open up a portal highlighting AI developments and Apple’s intent with AI. While AI is expected to take over the majority of the event, the tech giant has also planned several other features. Barring AI, iOS 18 is most likely to introduce features to enhance the user experience.
These features include home screen customisation options, design changes, control centre revamp, new settings app and more. Let’s delve deep into the new upcoming iOS 18 features which do not require AI help and are all about customisation.
Adjustable home screen
One of the drawbacks of iPhones and iPads is that the user cannot change the layout of the home screen. And Apple might think the same as with iOS 18. The tech giant will introduce an option to adjust the home screen accordingly.
Rumour has it that Apple will let users place app icons and widgets on their screens for the first time. This means that iPhone users will be able to break free from the current fixed aligned grid and create gaps between widgets and app icons. However, the feature has been associated with Android since forever, but for iOS users, this will be a debut.
Changeable app icon themes
The next big change coming to the iOS 18 home screen is the ability to customise app icons. While nothing is confirmed yet, this new feature will let users change the colour of app icons on a system-wide level for the first time.
Hopefully, during WWDC 2024, Apple will reveal more about the functioning of this feature.
Apple Maps upgrades
It may sound that this feature requires AI but it does not. The speculations are that Apple Maps will add support for a new custom route creation feature with iOS 18. This feature will enable iPhone users to map their own route rather than following one.
Currently, Apple Maps offers several route options to your destination, but with this feature, iOS 18 would provide you with complete control over the precise details of your journey.
Control Center revamp
As per the rumours, the iPhone maker may revamp the Control Centre in addition to a redesigned Music widget and controls for HomeKit. At present, the Music widget on the iPhone’s home screen is in the form of a small window with a single option to play/pause the track.
The current Control Centre layout chooses up to six accessories to display and is not always great at surfacing the exact controls users are looking for.
New Settings app
The Settings app may also receive a cleaner interface, better organisation, and a “much-improved search”. This update is rumoured to be introduced on macOS too.
Text effects in Messages
iOS 18 is also likely to add text effect support to the Messages app. According to the report, this feature will let users add animations to individual words within a message.
Deepak Sen is a tech enthusiast who covers the latest technological innovations, from AI to consumer gadgets. His articles provide readers with a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of technology.
