Apple has introduced a host of new customization options in iOS 18 for iPhone users. Among these is the ability to change the lock screen shortcuts, a feature that allows you to replace the default camera and flashlight icons with more personalized options.
Customizing Lock Screen Shortcuts
To change the shortcuts on your iPhone’s lock screen, follow these steps:
- Wake and Unlock Your iPhone: Lock your device, then wake the display by pressing the power button or tapping the screen. Use Face ID to unlock it.
- Enter Customization Mode: Long-press the lock screen until the customization menu appears.
- Select Lock Screen Customization: Tap on “Customize” and then choose “Lock Screen.”
- Remove Existing Shortcuts: Tap the minus (-) icon next to the camera and flashlight shortcuts to remove them.
- Add New Shortcuts: Tap the plus (+) icon to open a pop-up menu with available shortcut options. You can scroll through a list of over 50 options or use the search bar to find specific functions.
- Choose Your Shortcuts: Select the desired shortcuts. Options include apps, settings, and accessibility features. Notably, you can add the “Shortcuts” option, allowing you to create a custom shortcut for almost any function on your iPhone.
- Finalize Changes: Tap “Done” in the top-right corner to save your new lock screen setup.
Removing Shortcuts Entirely
If you prefer a minimalist lock screen or want to avoid accidental activations of the flashlight or camera, you can remove these shortcuts without replacing them. Simply follow the same steps to enter the customization menu and remove the shortcuts by tapping the minus icon, then leaving the spaces blank.
Advanced Customization with Shortcuts
One of the most powerful features in iOS 18 is the ability to use the “Shortcuts” app for lock screen buttons. This functionality allows you to create custom actions that can perform a wide range of tasks directly from your lock screen. Here’s how to set it up:
- Create a Shortcut: Open the “Shortcuts” app and create a new shortcut for the desired action.
- Assign Shortcut to Lock Screen Button: During the lock screen customization process, select “Shortcuts” from the list of options. You’ll be prompted to choose which shortcut to apply to the button.
Examples of Useful Shortcuts
- Recognize Music: Quickly identify songs playing around you.
- Alarm: Set or manage your alarms directly from the lock screen.
- Open App: Launch frequently used apps with a single tap.
- Accessibility Features: Access important accessibility functions such as Magnifier or VoiceOver.
Tips and Tricks
- Quick Camera Access: Even if you remove the camera shortcut, you can still access the camera by swiping left on the lock screen.
- Compatibility with Action Button: For iPhone 15 Pro/Max users, you can also customize the new Action button with similar options found in the lock screen customization menu.
A Wide Range of Options
Apple has provided an extensive list of potential shortcuts, mirroring many options found in the Control Center. These include functions related to the camera, clock, connectivity, and accessibility, among others. This variety ensures that you can tailor your lock screen to suit your specific needs and preferences.
With these new customization capabilities, iOS 18 allows users to personalize their iPhones more than ever before, making everyday interactions with their devices quicker and more efficient. Whether you want to streamline access to your most-used apps or enjoy a cleaner lock screen, iOS 18’s lock screen customization offers something for everyone.
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