Hands-On Mac 177: Control Center Updates in iOS 18.4

Mikah Sargent takes viewers on a comprehensive tour of the latest Control Center updates in iOS 18.4, demonstrating new features and reminding users of existing functionality they might have overlooked. Check out how Apple has enhanced this essential interface with ambient music options and expanded Apple Intelligence controls.

Navigation and customization - Learn how to switch between different Control Center categories by swiping up and down, including Favorites, additional controls, media controls, Home controls, and connectivity options.

Resizing controls - Controls with a "macaroni noodle" in the corner can be resized by tapping, holding, and dragging to make them larger or smaller based on user preference.
Adding new controls - Mikah demonstrates how to add controls by tapping "Add a Control," which suggests options based on what might be useful for the user.

Ambient music feature - A new addition in iOS 18.4 that allows users to quickly play background music from categories like Sleep, Chill, Productivity, and Well-being directly from Control Center.

Apple Intelligence and Siri updates - New control options including "Talk to Siri" (to switch between voice and typing) and "Visual Intelligence" for iPhone 16, 15 Pro, and 16E models.

App shortcuts integration - Third-party developers can now add shortcuts to Control Center, like "Analyze photo with Claude," Instagram capture, and Snapchat options.

App-specific categories - Apps can create their own categories in Control Center, with examples from Carrot, ChatGPT, Controller, Documents, DuckDuckGo, and many others.

Print Center tool - Mikah highlights the often-overlooked Print Center utility that allows users to check the status of AirPrint jobs.

Host: Mikah Sargent

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