Customize Your iPhone Lock Screen Controls with iOS 18 Beta
On July 29, Apple released the second public beta for iOS 18, offering developers and beta testers new features, including improved Messages and enhanced home screen customization. One of the most exciting additions is the ability to change your lock screen controls, a feature I’ve long awaited. Since installing the beta, I haven’t accidentally activated my flashlight once.
It’s important to note that iOS 18 is still in beta, and it’s advisable to install it on a secondary device to avoid potential issues like bugs and reduced battery life. I chose to download the beta on my old iPhone XR to keep my primary device, the iPhone 14 Pro, trouble-free.
The current beta is not the final version, and more features could be introduced before the official release. Apple has stated that iOS 18 will be available to the public this fall, but no exact date has been provided yet.
Steps to Customize Your Lock Screen
- Open Settings.
- Tap Wallpaper.
- Tap Customize under your lock screen.
From here, you can remove existing controls by tapping the minus (-) sign next to them and add new ones using the plus (+) sign. You can choose from options like Translate and Quick Note or use the Open App control to select any app on your iPhone for quick access from the lock screen. This feature enhances usability by allowing you to open your preferred apps directly.
As iOS 18 is still in beta, expect some features to be buggy. With more updates likely before the official release, Apple has time to refine the OS. Stay tuned for the final release date and additional features.