With iOS 18 now officially rolling out across supported iPhones, Apple users worldwide are exploring the latest updates and capabilities. While flashy redesigns and headline features like Apple Intelligence and customizable lock screens are stealing the spotlight, there’s an entire layer of improvements flying under the radar. In this guide to iOS 18 Hidden Features You Should Know 2025, we’re going beyond the surface to spotlight the small but powerful enhancements that can redefine how you use your iPhone daily.
Whether you’re in the US, UK, UAE, Canada, or elsewhere, these hidden features are designed with global users in mind—offering better security, accessibility, multitasking, and personalization. From per-app Face ID locking to offline Siri commands and advanced Spotlight integrations, iOS 18 Hidden Features You Should Know 2025 provides a detailed breakdown of the smartest additions most users overlook.
Knowing about these lesser-known features gives you a real advantage—making your iPhone experience faster, safer, and more productive. So, before you say “it looks the same,” take a closer look. You might be surprised by what iOS 18 can actually do in 2025.
1. Per-App Face ID Locking
One of the top iOS 18 hidden features you should know 2025 is the ability to lock individual apps with Face ID or Touch ID, natively. Previously, you needed third-party apps for this. Now, Apple lets you secure banking apps, health data, photo galleries, or notes individually—without locking your whole phone.
Why it matters: It’s a game-changer for privacy, especially in shared device environments or for parents managing teen devices.
2. Offline Siri Powered by Apple Intelligence
Thanks to Apple’s A17 Pro and newer chips, Siri can now work offline for most commands. You can open apps, create reminders, toggle settings, or even send texts without a network. This local processing also means faster performance and greater privacy.
Why it’s important: Offline voice commands save time and protect sensitive requests from being transmitted to the cloud.
3. Live Translate Overlays in Any App
iOS 18 introduces system-wide live translation overlays, enabling real-time language translation within any app, including WhatsApp, Instagram, or even PDFs. This is especially helpful for international users in the UAE, UK, or Canada who engage with multilingual content daily.
Bonus: Camera Translate is now even smarter, handling full paragraphs instantly.
4. Spotlight Shortcuts Integration
Spotlight Search now lets you run Siri Shortcuts and Automations directly from the search bar. Searching “Turn off lights” or “Email work status” now runs your custom automation without needing to open the Shortcuts app.
Productivity boost: This makes automations feel like native features.
5. Discreet Browsing Mode in Safari
Safari now includes Discreet Mode, which hides certain tabs, prevents screenshots, and requires Face ID for access. It’s a step beyond Private Browsing, and it’s perfect for researching sensitive topics or working in public.

6. Redesigned App Library with Custom Folders
Finally, Apple has allowed custom folders within the App Library. You can create new folders, rename them, and even pin important apps—without cluttering your home screen.
Minimalist users rejoice: This allows more control and cleaner layouts.
7. Background Sounds with Focus Mode Integration
Background sounds—like white noise, ocean, or rain—can now be automated using Focus Modes. Want calming rain while working or falling asleep? You can now trigger this with Do Not Disturb or Sleep mode.
Added benefit: Reduces the need for third-party wellness apps.
8. Enhanced Battery Health and Usage Insights
iOS 18 introduces Battery Health+, a new dashboard that gives a breakdown of battery usage patterns, long-term capacity, and charging behavior optimization tips. It’s a hidden feature inside the Settings app that lets you understand what’s really draining your battery.
9. Quick Notes with Apple Pencil Support (iPhone Pro only)
If you have an iPhone with Apple Pencil support (expected in Pro Max models), you can now swipe from the bottom corner to instantly launch Quick Notes, just like on iPadOS. Perfect for students, professionals, or creatives on the go.
10. Privacy Dashboard 2.0
Apple upgraded its privacy tools with Privacy Dashboard 2.0. It tracks real-time usage of camera, microphone, photos, and clipboard access by apps, and lets you instantly block any suspicious behavior.
Focus keyword reminder: Privacy features like this are what make iOS 18 Hidden Features You Should Know 2025 so valuable to end users.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s iOS 18 is more than just a flashy redesign—it’s a thoughtful upgrade packed with productivity boosts, privacy perks, and user-friendly automation. By uncovering the iOS 18 Hidden Features You Should Know 2025, you’re gaining access to the tools that truly elevate your mobile experience.
Whether you’re a power user or just getting started, these under-the-radar features are proof that Apple is thinking deeper about how people use their devices every day. From per-app security and advanced automation to smarter language tools and custom folders, iOS 18 is all about giving you more control.
Take the time to explore these features, enable the ones that suit your lifestyle, and share your discoveries with fellow iOS users. You’ll be surprised at how these hidden features make your iPhone feel brand new.
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