The recent update to iOS 18 has revamped the Control Center for both iPhone and iPad. Here are three features that I found notably beneficial after several months of use.
#1: AirPods Noise Cancellation
iOS 18 has provided a built-in way to switch AirPods noise cancellation directly from the Control Center, although it’s somewhat cumbersome.
While your AirPods are connected, you can long-press the volume slider to check the noise cancellation status. However, changing it requires several more taps.
To streamline this process, I created a simple shortcut that activates noise cancellation mode with just a single tap.
You’ll just need a basic shortcut like this, which includes the Set Noise Control Mode action. After that, add it to Control Center and configure as needed.
Now, whenever I’m uncertain if the noise cancellation on my AirPods Pro 2 is enabled, I simply tap my newly added Control Center button—no extra taps required.
#2: Vehicle Motion Cues
One standout feature introduced in iOS 18 for me has been the Vehicle Motion Cues.
This functionality has significantly alleviated my motion sickness when riding as a passenger in a vehicle, and I activate it through the Control Center every time I get in the car.
According to Apple, here’s how it works:
Research indicates that motion sickness often arises from a disconnect between visual and physical sensations, making it challenging for some individuals to comfortably use their iPhone or iPad while in a moving vehicle. With Vehicle Motion Cues, animated dots appear at the edges of the screen to indicate changes in vehicle motion, helping to minimize sensory conflict while not interrupting the main content. Utilizing built-in sensors in iPhone and iPad, Vehicle Motion Cues detect when users are in a moving vehicle and adjust accordingly.
This feature has worked wonders on my iPhone, but I find it even more useful on my iPad. Throughout the workday, I can hop into the car with my wife driving, access Control Center on my iPad, and tap the Vehicle Motion Cues button.
The animated dots, combined with a cellular connection, create an incredibly seamless working experience even while on the move.
#3: Background Sounds for Ambient Noise
Whether I’m working from my iPad in a car, or relaxing at home or a café, ambient noise is essential for me.
While there are many white noise applications available in the App Store, such as Portal or Endel, iOS has offered its built-in ambient sound options for quite some time.
With the release of iOS 18, two new ‘Background Sounds’ were added, complete with a specific Control Center toggle.
I’m particularly fond of the new Fire sound, which I can easily turn on or off throughout the day using a quick tap in Control Center.
To set up your Background Sounds control, simply search in Control Center or access the Hearing Accessibility section.
What are your favorite Control Center shortcuts? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Top iPhone Accessories
FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. More.
