Upgraded to iOS 18.5? Don’t miss these key setting tweaks

Silence Spam Calls Fast

With iOS 18.5, you can silence unknown callers by navigating to Settings > Apps > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. When enabled, calls from numbers not in your contacts, messages, or mail are sent directly to voicemail.

This is a smart way to dodge robocalls without missing legit ones. You’ll still see these calls in your recent list, so if something essential slips through, you can always return it. It’s one of the quickest ways to reduce daily interruptions.

Customize Lock Screen Widgets

The lock screen now supports more flexible widget options. Press and hold your lock screen, tap Customize, and select Widgets. You can add quick-access tools like weather, calendar, reminders, or third-party apps.

iOS 18.5 makes glancing at your most-used info easier without unlocking your phone. It’s convenient for busy mornings or on the go. Apple has improved widget responsiveness, too, so the updates feel more real-time.

Turn Off App Tracking

App tracking transparency remains a solid privacy tool in iOS 18.5. Go to Settings > Privacy > Tracking and toggle off “Allow Apps to Request to Track.” This stops apps from following your activity across other apps and websites.

It’s a great move if you’re tired of seeing ads pop up based on stuff you browsed once. Apple doesn’t sell your data, and this setting gives you more control over what apps know.

Boost Battery Health Settings

iOS 18.5 has refined battery health management. Head to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. Here, you’ll see your battery’s maximum capacity, which can enable optimized battery charging to slow battery aging.

iOS 18.5 introduces expanded charging limit options, allowing you to set a maximum charge limit at 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% to help preserve battery health. This helps reduce wear by avoiding constant 100 percent charges. If your iPhone feels like it drains too quickly, these small changes can stretch its daily and overall lifespan.

Hide Sensitive Photo Albums

Protecting private photos is simpler with iOS 18.5. In the Photos app, the Hidden and Recently Deleted albums are locked automatically using Face ID or Touch ID. You don’t have to set it up; it’s enabled by default.

Only someone with your authentication can open them. You can hide the Hidden album from appearing in Settings > Photos if you want extra privacy. It’s a secure way to keep specific memories truly private.

Use Private Wi-Fi Address

Each Wi-Fi network gets its unique MAC address when the Private Address setting is turned on. This helps stop networks from tracking your iPhone across locations. You’ll find it under Wi-Fi settings by tapping the info icon next to a network.

Toggle “Private Wi-Fi Address” on. It doesn’t affect your ability to connect, but it keeps your identity more secure. It’s beneficial when using public networks like cafes, airports, or hotels.

Tweak Auto Brightness Control

Auto-brightness in iOS 18.5 is more responsive, but you can still manage it manually. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size, and scroll to the bottom to toggle Auto-Brightness.

Turning it off gives you complete control over your screen’s brightness, which can help save battery or reduce eye strain, depending on your environment. Just remember that manual settings don’t adjust automatically, so you’ll need to dim or brighten your screen as needed.

Limit Background App Activity

Limiting background activity is an easy way to save both data and battery. In iOS 18.5, go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh. You can turn it off entirely or allow it only when connected to Wi-Fi.

This stops apps from updating in the background, meaning fewer push notifications and less power drain. If you notice your battery draining fast, check which apps are constantly running behind the scenes and shut them down.

Adjust Location Access Manually

iOS 18.5 lets you fine-tune location access per app. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. Tap each app and choose “Never,” “Ask Next Time,” “While Using the App,” or “Always.”

Many apps default to more access than they need, so scaling this back can protect your privacy and battery. You can also turn off Precise Location for apps that don’t need exact coordinates. It’s an easy way to control who sees what.

Enable Back Tap Shortcuts

Back Tap is a hidden gem in iOS 18.5. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap. You can assign double or triple taps on the back of your iPhone to trigger actions like opening apps, taking screenshots, or launching Control Center.

It’s beneficial if you prefer shortcuts over swiping through menus. Whether you want quick access to a flashlight or a specific app, it’s a time-saving feature worth trying.

Lock Notes with Face ID

The Notes app lets you lock individual notes using Face ID or Touch ID. Swipe left on a note, tap the lock icon, and secure it. It’s a fast way to protect sensitive info like passwords or personal thoughts.

You’ll need to enable this in Settings > Notes > Password. iOS 18.5 also supports device-only passwords, so your locked notes are safer even if your iCloud gets compromised—no third-party app required.

Manage iCloud Backup Storage

If your iCloud storage fills up fast, iOS 18.5 gives you better control. Go to Settings > [your Storage> iCloud > Manage Storage > Backups.

From here, you can delete old device backups or toggle off storage that doesn’t need to be backed up. It helps free up space without upgrading your storage plan. You’ll also get more intelligent recommendations about what’s taking up the most space. Great for anyone tight on iCloud limits.

Disable Personalized Ads Instantly

You can turn off Apple’s personalized ads under Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising. Toggle off “Personalized Ads” to stop ad targeting based on your interests and usage patterns.

This doesn’t reduce the number of ads you see, but makes them less tailored. It’s a small but impactful step toward keeping your digital footprint more private. Apple still serves ads, but they won’t be based on your in-app behavior or App Store activity.

Use Siri Without Speaking

Siri now supports whole-screen interaction. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Siri and enable “Type to Siri.” This lets you type commands instead of speaking them, which is helpful in quiet places or when talking isn’t ideal.

You can still activate Siri by holding the side button and typing your request. It supports all standard Siri tasks like sending texts, setting reminders, or controlling smart home devices. Great for accessibility and privacy alike.

iOS 18.5 Brings Big Siri Improvements. Here’s how you can use it hands-free without saying a word.

Strengthen Passcode Requirements

OS 18.5 makes it easier to boost security by switching from a 4-digit to a 6-digit or alphanumeric passcode. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Change Passcode > Passcode Options.

The more complex your passcode, the harder for someone to guess or crack it. Tightening this setting is worth it if you store sensitive information or use Apple Pay. It’s a small step that makes a big security difference.

Tightening your iPhone’s passcode? iOS 18.5 beta returns a classic Apple Mail look while boosting security options.

Would you prefer stronger passcode rules or a refreshed Mail design? Let us know in the comments.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.