What’s New in iOS 18.1: Exciting Features for Your iPhone
iOS 18.1 is here, bringing a host of exciting new features to your iPhone. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just someone who loves staying up-to-date with the latest offerings from Apple, this update has something for everyone. From call recording to improved Apple Intelligence tools, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
Call Recording Comes to Your iPhone
One of the standout features in iOS 18.1 is the ability to record phone calls directly on your iPhone. This is a game-changer for anyone who needs to keep a record of important conversations, whether it’s for work, legal reasons, or personal use. To use this feature, simply tap the sound bar icon in the top left corner during a call to start recording. Once you begin, an automated voice will announce to both you and the other caller that the conversation is being recorded.
Recordings are saved to the Notes app, and newer iPhone models like the iPhone 14 Pro even provide transcripts of the call. However, it’s important to note that older models like the iPhone XR won’t have access to the transcription feature. As always, make sure to check local laws regarding call recording before using this feature.
Apple Intelligence: Smarter Tools for Your iPhone
iOS 18.1 also introduces a suite of Apple Intelligence features, but these are only available on the iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 lineup. These tools include writing assistants that can proofread and rewrite your emails, the Clean Up photo tool to remove distractions from your images, and an upgraded Siri with improved language understanding and a new visual design. To access these features, you’ll need to join the Apple Intelligence waitlist in your settings under Apple Intelligence & Siri. Once approved, you’ll unlock these powerful new tools to enhance your iPhone experience.
While features like Genmoji, Apple’s AI-powered emoji generator, aren’t included in this update, they’re expected to arrive in future releases. For now, users outside the EU and China with compatible devices can enjoy these smart upgrades.
RCS Messaging Just Got Better
If you’re someone who relies on RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging, iOS 18.1 has expanded this functionality to include support for Messages for Business. Previously available only through iMessage, this update makes it easier for businesses to communicate with iPhone users. With RCS, you can enjoy features like higher-quality images, read receipts, and typing indicators, making your messaging experience more seamless than ever.
Customizing Your Control Center
The Control Center in iOS 18.1 got a few tweaks that make it more user-friendly. For starters, connectivity settings like Wi-Fi, AirDrop, and VPN can now be added as individual controls in the Control Center, giving you quicker access to the features you use most. Additionally, Apple introduced new Level and Measure controls, which can be handy if you’re working on a DIY project or Renovation and don’t have a tape measure or bubble level on hand.
If you’re not a fan of the new layout, don’t worry—Apple has also added an option to reset your Control Center to its default configuration. This can be done by going to Settings > Control Center and tapping “Reset Control Center.”
Tinted Widgets and Customization Options
iOS 18.1 also brings a few aesthetic updates, including the ability to apply the same tint you use for your home screen apps to your widgets. This means that widgets like Clock, Battery, and Calendar will now match the style of your apps, creating a more cohesive look on your home screen.
Another convenient feature is the ability to change or add a new primary email address for your Apple ID. This can be done in the Settings app under Apple ID > Sign-In & Security. Once updated, Apple will send notifications and emails to your new primary address.
Sleep Apnea Detection and More Emoji Options
iOS 18.1 also includes a feature that’s especially useful for health-conscious users: sleep apnea detection on compatible Apple Watch models. Paired with an iPhone running the update, this feature can detect sleep apnea and provide valuable insights to help you manage your health.
On the lighter side, emoji lovers will appreciate the expansion of the emoji keyboard. You can now customize your sticker collection and easily access Memoji with just a few swipes. The emoji are also slightly larger, making them easier to see and use.
In conclusion, iOS 18.1 is packed with features that make your iPhone experience more efficient, personalized, and fun. Whether you’re recording calls, customizing your home screen, or staying connected with RCS messaging, there’s something for everyone in this update. While some features are limited to newer iPhone models, the overall improvements make this update well worth installing.
