Just when you thought you had mastered all your iPhone's tricks, iOS 18.4 arrives with a fresh batch of features that genuinely enhance how you use your iPhone.
This latest update — available as a public beta as of this writing — sharpens Apple's AI offerings with easier access points, tackles the ever-present notification overload problem, and adds thoughtful conveniences. iOS 18.4's features strike a balance between new capabilities and practical improvements.
From reprogramming your Action button for smarter AI access to finally gaining proper control over app downloads, iOS 18.4 shows that even smaller updates between major releases can significantly enhance how you use your iPhone.
Let's dive into how iOS 18.4 brings these new capabilities to your iPhone and how to make the most of them.
1. Easy Access to Apple Intelligence
iOS 18.4 introduces a dedicated Apple Intelligence section in the Control Center, making AI-powered features more accessible than ever on compatible iPhones. This new area includes the Type to Siri functionality that was previously tucked away elsewhere, along with quick access to Visual Intelligence and Talk to Siri.
Getting this set up is straightforward — simply open your Control Center (swipe down from the top-right on newer iPhones), then long-press until the icons start to jiggle. Next, tap the plus icon, scroll down to find the Apple Intelligence & Siri section, and select Visual Intelligence to add it to your Control Center for quick access.
2. Customize Your Notification Priorities
Notification overload is one of the most frustrating parts of owning a smartphone, constantly pulling your attention in different directions. iOS 18.4 helps cut through the chaos with its new Priority Notifications feature. When enabled, your most important alerts appear in their own section on the Lock Screen, helping you see what matters most at a glance.
To enable this feature, navigate to Settings, then Notifications, tap Prioritize notifications and toggle it on. Next, select the specific app notifications you want to appear in the priority section.
3. Visual Intelligence and the Action Button
iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 users can now configure the Action button to launch Visual Intelligence – Apple’s object recognition tool. This is particularly useful for iPhone 15 Pro owners who don't have the dedicated Camera Control button found on the iPhone 16 models.
To set this up on compatible devices, go to Settings and select Action Button. Browse through the available options until you find Visual Intelligence, then select it as your preferred action. Once configured, you can identify objects around you by simply pointing your camera and pressing the Action button. You'll be given two options: “Search” performs a standard web search about the object, while “Ask” lets you pose specific questions that ChatGPT will attempt to answer about what you're looking at.
4. Pause Your Downloads
A practical improvement in iOS 18.4 is the ability to pause app downloads directly from the App Store's update list. Previously, you had to either completely cancel an installation or awkwardly press the app icon on your Home Screen to access pause controls.
The new functionality works for both fresh downloads and app updates, offering more convenient control over installation timing. You simply have to press the pause button while downloading. This is particularly helpful when you need to prioritize certain downloads on limited bandwidth, or want to temporarily halt large updates.
5. Explore Vision Pro Content
Vision Pro headset owners will find a dedicated companion app automatically installed after updating to iOS 18.4. This new app lets you browse and download Vision Pro content directly from your iPhone without needing to wear the headset.
The app features dedicated sections for immersive videos and 3D movies, along with the option to install Vision Pro apps remotely. Additionally, the "My Vision Pro" section provides a user guide and practical tips to help users maximize their mixed-reality experience.
This companion app ensures Vision Pro users can easily organize and prepare their content before diving into their next VR session.
Real-World Impact of iOS 18.4’s New Features
These five new features are designed to enhance your iPhone experience in practical ways:
- Streamlined Access: Quickly access AI-powered tools from the Control Center, making it easier to get answers and insights on the go.
- Reduced Notification Overload: Priority Notifications help you focus on what’s important without being distracted by less critical alerts.
- Enhanced Object Recognition: Visual Intelligence via the Action Button allows for immediate object identification and information gathering.
- Improved Download Control: The ability to pause downloads directly from the App Store makes managing updates more efficient.
- Optimized VR Content Experience: The Vision Pro companion app simplifies the process of accessing mixed-reality content, preparing you for immersive experiences.
Integration with the Apple Ecosystem
One of the strengths of these updates is how seamlessly they integrate with the broader Apple ecosystem. Enhanced Siri, updated privacy controls, and improved interaction features ensure that your iPhone works in harmony with other Apple devices, providing a unified and efficient experience across your digital life.
Expert Opinions and Market Trends
Leading tech outlets like TechRadar and The Verge have praised iOS 18.4 for its user-centric enhancements. These updates highlight Apple's commitment to continuous innovation, even between major releases. The focus on improving accessibility, privacy, and convenience has resonated well with users and industry experts alike.
Conclusion: A Noteworthy Update for iPhone Users
iOS 18.4 is a significant update that brings five fresh features designed to enhance the functionality and usability of your iPhone. From a more accessible Apple Intelligence section in the Control Center to smarter download management and a dedicated Vision Pro companion app, this update delivers practical improvements that enrich your daily interactions with your device.
If you're an iPhone user looking to get the most out of your device, iOS 18.4’s new features are definitely worth exploring. They not only streamline everyday tasks but also provide enhanced security and smarter AI integration that align with the evolving digital landscape.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the five new features introduced in iOS 18.4?
iOS 18.4 introduces enhanced StandBy mode with customizable information display, interactive lock screen widgets, a redesigned Focus mode for prioritizing notifications, an updated Privacy Dashboard, and smarter Siri with enhanced contextual awareness.
How does the new Apple Intelligence section work in the Control Center?
The updated Control Center now includes an Apple Intelligence section that offers quick access to Visual Intelligence, Type to Siri, and Talk to Siri, making it easier to interact with AI-powered features.
What improvements have been made to notification management?
With the new Priority Notifications feature, your most important alerts are grouped together on the Lock Screen, allowing you to focus on what matters most while reducing distractions.
How can I set up the Visual Intelligence feature with the Action Button?
On compatible devices, go to Settings, select Action Button, and choose Visual Intelligence from the available options. Once set, pressing the Action Button lets you identify objects around you via web search or through specific queries answered by ChatGPT.
What does the new Vision Pro companion app offer?
The Vision Pro app automatically installs on devices updated to iOS 18.4. It lets Vision Pro headset owners browse and download immersive videos, 3D movies, and Vision Pro apps, as well as access a user guide for mixed-reality experiences.