What are the new features in the Control Center of iOS 18

Major Overhaul of Control Center

Multiple Pages
One of the most notable changes is the transition from a single page to multiple pages. Users can now have dedicated screens for different categories, such as Favorites, Playback, Home, and Connectivity. This allows for a more organized and user-friendly experience[1][4].

Customization Options
The Control Center in iOS 18 offers extensive customization capabilities. Users can:
- Add and rearrange controls: You can add various controls, including third-party app integrations, and rearrange them according to your preferences[1][3].
- Resize controls: Controls can be resized for easier access, allowing users to make them larger or smaller based on their needs[4][3].
- Create additional pages: Beyond the default pages, users can create up to 15 separate Control Center pages, tailoring their experience further[4][1].

New Functionalities

Third-Party App Integration
For the first time, developers can create controls for their apps that can be integrated into the Control Center. This opens up a range of functionalities beyond Apple's built-in options[4][1].

Lock Screen Access
Control Center can now be accessed directly from the Lock Screen, allowing users to customize quick-access buttons like Flashlight and Camera. Users also have the option to disable Lock Screen access entirely if desired[4][1].

Enhanced Features

Open App Shortcut
A new feature called Open App allows users to create shortcuts for any app directly in the Control Center or Lock Screen. This means you can quickly launch your favorite apps without navigating through your home screen[5][3].

Power Button Addition
A new power button has been added to the top right corner of the Control Center, providing quick access to shut down your device[1][4].

Accessibility Improvements

iOS 18 also enhances accessibility options within Control Center. There are now specific controls for features like Voice Control, Assistive Touch, and Background Sounds, making it easier for users with different needs to customize their experience[4][1].

Conclusion

The revamped Control Center in iOS 18 significantly improves user experience through enhanced customization, third-party integration, and new functionalities. These changes reflect Apple's commitment to providing users with more control over their devices while ensuring accessibility for all users.

Citations:
[1] https://9to5mac.com/2024/09/17/customize-use-control-center-in-ios-18/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_z6Gf_YQd7s
[3] https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/how-to-edit-and-use-your-iphones-updated-control-center-in-ios-18/
[4] https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-18-control-center/
[5] https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/this-secret-ios-18-feature-lets-you-create-custom-iphone-controls/
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=du_w6Wm8wYM
[7] https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/09/a-quick-guide-to-ios-power-user-features-the-new-control-center-and-beyond/
[8] https://www.youtube.com/shorts/T8HYBr-tsAk

How can I customize the new Control Center pages in iOS 18

Customizing the new Control Center in iOS 18 allows users to tailor their experience significantly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to customize the Control Center pages:

Accessing Control Center

1. Open Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPhone's screen (or swipe up if you are using an older model).
2. Navigate Pages: You can swipe left or right to access different pages, such as Favorites, Playback, Home, and Connectivity.

Entering Edit Mode

1. Access Edit Mode: Either long-press on an empty area of the Control Center or tap the "+" icon located in the top-left corner.
2. Edit Controls: Once in edit mode, you can add, remove, resize, or rearrange controls.

Adding Controls

1. Open Controls Gallery: Tap on "Add Controls" to access a gallery of available controls.
2. Select Controls: Scroll through or use the search bar to find controls you want to add. Tap on a control to include it in your Control Center.
3. Add New Pages: To create a new page, tap the dotted circle icon located below the existing pages in edit mode. This will generate a blank page where you can add controls.

Rearranging and Resizing Controls

1. Rearranging: Simply drag and drop controls to your desired location within a page.
2. Resizing: Long-press and drag the corner of any control to resize it according to your preference, allowing for larger or smaller buttons based on functionality.

Removing Controls and Pages

1. Removing Controls: In edit mode, tap the red minus icon next to any control you wish to remove.
2. Deleting Pages: To delete an entire page, ensure it is empty by removing all controls from it, then exit edit mode.

Finalizing Customization

Once you have arranged everything to your liking, simply tap outside of the controls or swipe up from the bottom of the screen to exit edit mode and save your changes[1][2][3][5][6].

This customization capability enhances usability and allows users to create a personalized experience tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

Citations:
[1] https://9to5mac.com/2024/09/17/customize-use-control-center-in-ios-18/
[2] https://www.macrumors.com/how-to/ios-add-multiple-pages-control-center/
[3] https://beebom.com/how-customize-control-center-iphone/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfVmzTVVvS4
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4EIBrW8kM4
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1soQG3U7894
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_z6Gf_YQd7s
[8] https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-18-control-center/

What third-party apps are currently integrated with the Control Center in iOS 18

iOS 18 has expanded the Control Center to allow integration with various third-party apps, enhancing user accessibility and functionality. Here are some notable third-party apps currently integrated with the Control Center:

- Halide: This popular camera app can be accessed directly from the Lock Screen and added to the Control Center, allowing users to take photos even when the phone is locked.

- Obscura: Similar to Halide, Obscura can replace the default Camera app on the Lock Screen, providing quick access for photography.

- Tripsy: A travel planning app that offers Control Center widgets to quickly access trip itineraries and updates.

- Waterllama: This water tracking app features animated icons in the Control Center for easy logging of liquid consumption.

- Weather Up: Known for its interactive widgets, Weather Up now supports tinted icons in the Control Center for quick weather updates.

- Karo: A task assignment app that integrates with Control Center, allowing users to quickly manage tasks and assignments.

- Crouton: A recipe management app that offers easy access to import new recipes via Control Center.

- Focus: This productivity app provides customizable shortcuts in the Control Center for managing tasks efficiently.

- Slopes: A winter sports tracking app that includes Siri Shortcuts and Control Center integration for quick access to activity stats and maps.

- Bulletin: An AI-powered news reader app that has multiple Control Center widgets for accessing different news categories quickly.

Additional apps like CARROT Weather, Dark Noise, and MediSOS also offer functionalities through the Control Center, allowing users to perform actions without opening the respective apps. More integrations are expected as developers continue to update their applications to utilize this new feature.