In the most recent episode of iOS Decoded, DMN explores numerous new, yet-to-be-released features in the iOS 18.3 beta currently being tested by Apple. Notably, a new fluid navigation system will simplify navigating back through menus, and a camera pose functionality will automatically recognize when users of the iPhone 16 are about to take a picture. But that’s just the beginning.
Apple is examining the option of utilizing the traditional ring/silent switch on earlier iPhone models to toggle Focus modes. Additionally, updates are being made to Visual Intelligence features, including a shortcut for the Visual Intelligence Control Center, new routing features within the Music app, and more. Be sure to subscribe to DMN on YouTube for more episodes of iOS Decoded.
Fluid navigation transitions
Apple is experimenting with a new “fluid” transition within standard navigation controllers. A demonstration of this can be seen in the Settings application, which is highlighted in our video walkthrough. This new animation enables users to swipe back from any location, not just the left edge of the screen, making it more convenient for one-handed navigation while holding your iPhone.
Using the Ring/Silent switch to adjust Focus modes on older devices
The Action button featured in newer devices like the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 makes switching between Focus modes effortless. However, for earlier models that are equipped with the classic ring/silent switch, Apple is testing the ability to change Focus modes by toggling the traditional ringer switch.
It is possible that users will have the option to modify ring/silent settings within the Settings app, granting the switch enhanced functionality beyond its standard use. This could lead to numerous possibilities, although it seems it will primarily pivot around switching between Focus modes.
New ‘All Games’ button in the App Store Arcade section
For a considerable time, users have had the ability to view a list of all games in the Apple Arcade section of the App Store. By scrolling to the bottom of the screen, they can tap the See All Games button. A new button positioned next to user settings at the top of the screen will streamline access to this list even further.
Camera Control Features
Apple’s engineers are currently testing two new features pertaining to the Camera Control button present on all iPhone 16 models. The first feature involves the iPhone automatically opening the camera when held in a “camera pose,” presumably in landscape orientation with the Camera Control button at the top right. It’s still uncertain whether this feature was previously tested and shelved or if it is destined for a future iOS release.
The Camera Control feature is currently inactive during Game Mode, but there is also a test of a feature called Game Mode detection. This feature reduces the sensitivity of the Camera Control button while the iPhone 16 is in Game Mode, minimizing accidental activations during gaming sessions—a smart addition.
Visual Intelligence Control Center shortcut
Visual Intelligence, the AI-assisted camera feature that helps users understand their surroundings, is at the heart of several newly introduced specifics in this episode of iOS Decoded.
Most excitingly, Apple has created a Control Center shortcut dedicated to Visual Intelligence. This shortcut, as anticipated, would provide alternate means to access Visual Intelligence beyond pressing the Camera Control button. For instance, it might be accessed through the Control Center, the Lock Screen, or mapped to the Action button, etc. However, it’s still uncertain if this will extend to older devices capable of using Apple Intelligence, like the iPhone 15 Pro, or if it will exclusively benefit the iPhone 16 series.
Visual Intelligence Debug Panel
We recently gained insight into Visual Intelligence’s debug panel found on the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which offers an array of intriguing features, though not every option is functioning. I was able to utilize this panel for tasks like displaying real-time text detection, pins, and marker boxes. There is also a video-enabled feature for Visual Intelligence, but I was unable to access it. This could potentially lead to fascinating expansions in functionality in the future, should Apple decide to proceed in that direction.
ChatGPT Prompt Editor
Even more intriguing is the inclusion of a ChatGPT Prompt editor, a debug option allowing users to modify the prompt utilized in ChatGPT requests. The default editor outlines various requirements and limitations for ChatGPT, such as avoiding references to the user-provided attachment type, using neutral language, and refraining from unsolicited suggestions. This insight provides a glimpse into the perspectives of Apple engineers and their desired approach to shaping responses from Visual Intelligence.
Messages
Apple is enhancing the Messages app with subtle changes related to pinned contacts. This includes the previously mentioned fluid transition, as well as a new ‘pin’ action that appears upon swiping right on a message thread.
Music: Redesigned Bottom Bar
The bottom bar in the Music app, which displays the currently playing track along with transport controls when minimized, is set to receive significant updates, as noted by DMN. These modifications are still undergoing testing but offer a preview of potential features we may eventually find in future releases of iOS.
Firstly, new player routing features will be integrated into the bottom bar. This will let users choose an AirPlay destination directly or swipe among playback sources for efficient control. Additional functionalities related to music queueing have also been introduced. The Grab queue feature retrieves the queue from another AirPlay source and starts playback on the local iPhone, while Transfer queue performs the inverse.
Moreover, users can now swiftly add another remote AirPlay source by swiping left on the bottom bar to reveal a new Add button. New swipe gestures are also introduced on the right side of the bar, allowing users to skip ahead or rewind within the queue.
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DMN’s Perspective
Apple is perpetually testing new features for iOS, making it unsurprising to discover these latest items. While the specific timeline and scope of how many of the aforementioned features will publicly debut remains ambiguous, it’s likely that we will witness at least some of these updates in the near future.
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