iOS 18 Hidden Gems: Restart Your iPhone, Share Wi-Fi with QR Code, and More

Bianca Patrick
4 min readAug 2, 2024

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Curious about the latest updates in iOS 18?

While the new public beta has been out for a few weeks, there’s so much more to explore beyond the big announcements from Apple’s WWDC in June.

From enhanced customization options to new app functionalities, iOS 18 is packed with features that can transform how you use your iPhone every day.

Let’s dive into some of the lesser-known features that you might have missed.

1. Control Center Revamp: Restart Your iPhone with Ease

One of the nifty new features in iOS 18 is the revamped Control Center, which now includes a quick option to restart your iPhone.

No more fumbling with physical buttons — simply swipe down from the top-right corner and hold down the new power button icon.

This will bring up a slider to power off your iPhone. To turn it back on, you’ll still need to use the physical side button. It’s a small but convenient update that makes managing your device even easier.

If you’re excited about iOS 18 and considering upgrading to a new iPhone, data transfer can be a concern. This is where the Smart Transfer app comes in.

This third-party clone data app simplifies the process of transferring data between phones, whether you’re moving from an older iPhone or even an Android device.

With Smart Transfer, you can easily transfer contacts, photos, and apps to your new iPhone without losing any important information.

It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the latest features of iOS 18 on a brand-new device, making the transition smooth and hassle-free.

2. QR Codes for Wi-Fi: Easy Sharing, No Fuss

Sharing your Wi-Fi password has never been easier thanks to iOS 18’s new QR code feature. Now, instead of manually typing out passwords, you can generate a QR code directly from the new Passwords app.

Just go to the Wi-Fi section, select your network, and choose “Show Network QR Code.” This feature is especially handy when you’re sharing Wi-Fi with multiple people or those who aren’t saved in your contacts.

It’s also a great solution for sharing Wi-Fi with Android users, as they can simply scan the code with their camera to connect.

3. Flashlight Beam Width: Customize Your Lighting

The flashlight feature on iPhones has always been useful, but iOS 18 takes it a step further. Now, you can not only adjust the intensity of the flashlight but also its beam width.

This means you can choose between a wider beam for broader illumination or a narrow, more focused light. It’s an ideal tool for photography enthusiasts who need specific lighting conditions.

To access this feature, turn on your flashlight, and use the dynamic island interface to adjust both the intensity and beam width by swiping up, down, left, or right.

4. Streamline Your Home Screen: Hide App Labels

Feeling overwhelmed by a cluttered home screen? iOS 18 offers a solution with the option to hide app labels. This feature allows you to remove the names of apps underneath their icons, giving your home screen a cleaner, more streamlined look.

To activate it, press and hold any blank space on your home screen until you enter jiggle mode, then select Edit > Customize and choose the Large option. This not only enlarges your app icons but also hides the labels, perfect for a minimalist aesthetic.

5. Widgets Made Easy: Convert Apps on the Fly

In iOS 18, converting an app into a widget is simpler than ever. If an app supports widgets, you can change it without navigating through menus.

Just press and hold the app icon on your home screen to bring up the quick actions menu. If the app has widget options, you’ll see them displayed alongside the app icon. Choose your desired widget size and style, and you’re all set.

This feature allows you to personalize your home screen effortlessly, bringing the most important information front and center.

Wrap Up

iOS 18 is more than just a few flashy new features; it’s a treasure trove of useful tweaks and enhancements. From easy data transfer with Smart Transfer Clone to innovative new controls like adjustable flashlight beams and QR code Wi-Fi sharing, there’s plenty to explore.

Keep experimenting with these features to get the most out of your iPhone experience. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the full release of iOS 18!

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Bianca Patrick
Bianca Patrick

Written by Bianca Patrick

Bianca is a content creator & a passionate blogger. She is a professional tech blogger & an avid reader. She loves to explore topics related to tech.

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