iOS 18 Surprises: Six Updates Apple Didn’t Highlight at WWDC 2024

At WWDC 2024, Apple introduced the highly anticipated iOS 18, showcasing its advanced AI capabilities. While the major features were thoroughly covered, several smaller but equally significant updates were left unmentioned.

These updates, which enhance user experience and functionality, include new bezel animations, bilingual typing, Vision Pro virtual keyboard, charging limits, and more. Let's delve into these features in detail.

iPhone's Bezels Coming to Life

One of the intriguing features in iOS 18 is the bezel animation. In the beta phase of iOS 18, a clever new animation activates when the side buttons are pressed. The Verge observed that pressing these buttons gives the illusion of pushing into the screen.

This fun element might also hint at future hardware changes. Rumors suggest that the upcoming iPhone 16 series may feature solid-state side buttons that don't physically move. The new animation could serve as a visual indicator for these static buttons, enhancing the tactile feedback experience.

Flashlight Patterns

Another exciting feature discovered in the iOS 18 beta is the ability to change the flashlight beam pattern. Currently, users can only adjust the flashlight's intensity. However, iOS 18 will introduce the ability to change the shape of the flashlight beam by sliding a finger left or right on the flashlight icon.

This feature, for now, is exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro models, adding a new layer of customization and functionality to the flashlight tool.

Dual-Language Writing Experience

For multilingual users, iOS 18 brings a highly anticipated feature: bilingual typing. The beta version allows users to toggle between two languages seamlessly without the need to manually switch keyboards.

This improvement prevents autocorrect from interfering when typing a few words in a different language, streamlining the typing experience for those fluent in multiple languages.

Widget Customization

At WWDC 2024, Apple emphasized customization as a key theme for iOS 18. Beyond the announced home screen personalization, iOS 18 also offers improved widget customization.

The beta version shows that users can long-press on the home screen to open a contextual menu with size options for widgets. This enhancement allows for more dynamic and tailored home screen setups, giving users greater control over their device layout.

Vision Pro to Have a Virtual Keypad

A standout feature for Vision Pro is the introduction of a virtual keyboard. This feature allows users to see their keyboard in a fully virtual environment, enabling productivity in any setting, whether in the mountains or at the beach.

However, this feature is designed to work specifically with the Magic Keyboard, integrating seamlessly with the Vision Pro headset to enhance the virtual workspace.

Charging Limits

iOS 18 introduces more granular control over charging limits. In the Settings app, users with iPhone 15 series devices will find multiple options for setting a charging limit in the Battery menu's Charging section.

Unlike the current 80% limit, iOS 18 will offer options to set charging limits at 85%, 90%, and 95%. Additionally, the system will notify users if they are using slow chargers, providing smarter and more efficient battery management.

This feature can be accessed in the Settings app under the Battery menu, offering enhanced control over battery health and charging habits.

Conclusion

The hidden features of iOS 18, while not highlighted at WWDC 2024, add significant value to the user experience. From bezel animations and flashlight patterns to bilingual typing and enhanced widget customization, these updates demonstrate Apple's commitment to continuous improvement and user satisfaction.

As iOS 18 rolls out, users can look forward to discovering and enjoying these thoughtful enhancements.