Apple’s latest iOS 18.6 update, officially released on July 29, 2025, isn’t just about bug fixes—it’s a significant quality-of-life upgrade for iPhone users worldwide. Packed with personalization tools, smarter notifications, and enhanced privacy features, this release empowers users to make their devices truly their own. Here’s everything you need to know about the most impactful changes in iOS 18.6 and why they matter.
How iOS 18.6 Changes the Way You Use Your iPhone
The new iOS 18.6 delivers a blend of customization, intelligence, and security. For the first time, you can fully tailor your lock screen buttons, filter notifications using Apple Intelligence, position apps anywhere on your home screen, and hide sensitive apps behind biometric authentication. These are not minor tweaks—they’re everyday usability improvements designed to make your iPhone feel faster, cleaner, and more secure.
According to multiple tech analysts, these settings bring the iPhone experience closer to the flexibility Android users have enjoyed for years, but with Apple’s signature polish and privacy safeguards.
1. Customize Your Lock Screen Buttons
Previously, the flashlight and camera icons were locked into place on your lock screen. Now, with iOS 18.6, you can replace them with shortcuts you use most—like Shazam, Dark Mode toggle, Airplane Mode, Alarm, Wallet, or Tap to Cash for quick payments.
How to do it:
Press and hold your lock screen
Tap Customize
Choose your preferred shortcuts
This change means faster access to the tools you actually use, without unnecessary swipes or searches.
2. Prioritize Notifications Using Apple Intelligence
Managing notifications is easier than ever. Under Settings > Notifications > Apple Intelligence, you’ll find Prioritize Notifications—a smart filtering system that lets you decide which apps or contacts can break through your notification barrier.
For instance, you can ensure only work-related messages, family calls, or critical app alerts reach you instantly, while low-priority updates are quietly tucked away. This reduces screen time distractions and boosts focus.
3. Rearrange Your Home Screen with True Freedom
iOS 18 introduced a looser grid for apps, but 18.6 takes it further—you can now position icons anywhere you like, without the system automatically snapping them into rows.
Simply enter jiggle mode by tapping and holding your home screen, then drag apps to create clean, minimal layouts or thematic groupings. It’s small in concept but massive in everyday feel.
4. Secure or Hide Sensitive Apps
Your private apps—like banking, health, or personal notes—can now be locked or hidden entirely. By holding down the app icon, you’ll see options like Require Face ID / Touch ID or Hide and Require Face ID.
Hidden apps are moved into the Hidden folder within the App Library, only visible after biometric authentication. This adds a meaningful extra layer of privacy, particularly for shared or family devices.
5. Boost Performance, Battery Life, and the Overall Feel
While Apple hasn’t highlighted performance boosts as a standalone feature, the combined effect of these settings can make your device feel brand new. A cleaner home screen, fewer background notifications, and quick access tools mean less battery drain and a more streamlined experience overall.
Tech reviewers note that even without a major under-the-hood overhaul, these changes help older iPhones feel more modern and responsive.
Apple’s update philosophy has often been criticized for being too incremental. iOS 18.6 is different—it’s about giving power back to the user without compromising Apple’s long-standing focus on security. These five changes put customization, privacy, and efficiency at the heart of the iPhone experience, making this one of the most user-focused updates in recent years.
With iOS 18.6, Apple has delivered more than just another minor update—it’s a tangible upgrade in daily usability. By taking a few minutes to configure these features, users can unlock a faster, safer, and more personal iPhone experience.
You Must Know:
Q1: How do I update to iOS 18.6?
Go to Settings > General > Software Update and follow the on-screen instructions. Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi and has at least 50% battery before updating.
Q2: Can I customize lock screen buttons on older iOS versions?
No, this feature is exclusive to iOS 18.6 and later. Older versions do not allow changing lock screen shortcuts.
Q3: Will hiding apps in iOS 18.6 uninstall them?
No, hiding an app simply removes it from the home screen and App Library view. You can still access it after authentication.
Q4: Does rearranging home screen icons affect battery life?
Not significantly. However, organizing your apps for quicker access may indirectly improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary screen time.
Q5: Is iOS 18.6 available for all iPhones?
It is supported on iPhone models capable of running iOS 18, including iPhone XR and newer.
