iOS 18.4 with new ambient music controls

With the beta version of iOS 18.4, Apple has once again introduced a number of new features. In addition to improvements for Apple Intelligence and a new Apple Vision Pro app, there is an interesting extension for Apple Music users: new ambient music controls. These allow you to start various playlists directly from the control center, the lock screen or the action button. The new functions are particularly useful for users who want to quickly and easily play music that suits the situation. They can be customized and offer direct integration with Apple Music.

Since iOS 18, Apple has revised the control center and made it much more flexible. With each new version, more customization options have been added, and with iOS 18.4, Apple is continuing this trend. The new ambient music controls are a useful addition for anyone who uses music as a supporting element in everyday life. Whether for concentration, relaxation, or falling asleep - a suitable playlist can be started with just a few clicks.

New features in iOS 18.4

In addition to the ambient music controls, iOS 18.4 brings other improvements:

Advanced Apple Intelligence languages for even better AI usage
A new Apple Vision Pro app for the iPhone
A food section in Apple News+ for subscribers

The most noticeable change for music lovers, however, are the new controls in the Control Center.

The new ambient music controls

With iOS 18.4, four new controls can be integrated into the Control Center:

Chill – for relaxing music
Productivity – for focused work
Sleep – for soothing sounds before falling asleep
Well-being – for a balanced mood

These controls can be accessed directly from the Control Center, but can also be assigned to the iPhone's Action button. Alternatively, they can serve as a replacement for the camera or flashlight buttons on the lock screen.

iOS 18.4 Ambient Music — Image: Apfelpatient

Setting up and customizing the controls

The new ambient music controls can be easily added:

To open Control Center, swipe down from the top right of the screen.
Now select the + symbol in the upper left corner or hold down the black area.
Now you can add the ambient music controls you want and customize the order and position.

By default, each control has its own playlists, but you can long-press the control to select alternative playlists. You can also add your own Apple Music playlists.

iOS 18.4 makes the Control Center even smarter

With iOS 18.4, Apple is bringing a useful extension to the Control Center that makes using Apple Music even more convenient. The new ambient music controls allow you to play the right music for different situations with just one tap. The direct integration into Apple Music and the option for individual customization make this update particularly interesting for music lovers. iOS 18.4 shows that Apple is continuing to work on improving the user experience and making the iPhone even more customizable. Time for fresh accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront and discover a wide range of products from leading manufacturers, including for HomeKit! (Image: Apfelpatient)