How to Use iOS 18’s New Background Sounds

In this video, I’m thrilled to walk you through the exciting new Background Sounds feature on the iPhone, specifically with iOS 18. As technology continues to evolve, Apple has introduced this delightful addition to enhance your iPhone experience, making it easier for you to enjoy soothing sounds while using your device. Whether you’re looking to focus, relax, or simply add ambiance to your day, background sounds offer a versatile solution. Let’s explore how you can make the most of this feature.

Accessing Background Sounds

To begin, accessing Background Sounds is an accessibility option available in iOS 18. Here’s how you can find it:

1. Open the Settings App: From your iPhone home screen, tap on the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Accessibility: Scroll down and select ‘Accessibility.’ This is where Apple houses various features to enhance your device’s usability.
3. Find Audio and Visual: Within the Accessibility menu, scroll up until you see ‘Audio and Visual.’
4. Select Background Sounds: Tap on it, and you’ll discover a range of settings to personalize your experience.

Using Background Sounds

Once you’ve accessed Background Sounds, here’s how to use it effectively:

• Play Sounds: Tap on the slider to start playing a background sound. Whether you prefer the gentle hum of ‘Night Sounds’ or the calming ‘Dark Noise,’ you can choose your favorite.
• Change Sounds: To switch sounds, tap on ‘Sound’ and select a different option from the list provided.
• Adjust Volume: You have control over the overall volume and can also adjust the volume of background sounds when other media is playing, like music or videos.
• Stop Sounds When Locked: If you prefer, enable the option to stop sounds when your iPhone is locked, providing full control over when and how sounds play.

Quick Access via Control Center

With iOS 18, Apple has revamped the Control Center for easier navigation. This means you can access Background Sounds directly from there:

1. Open Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to reveal the Control Center.
2. Add Background Sounds Control: If you haven’t already, you can easily add this feature. Long press in a blank area or tap the plus icon, then search for ‘Background Sounds’ and add it.
3. Play and Customize: Once added, simply tap to play sounds, or long press to access more options like changing the sound or adjusting the volume.

Customizing Your Control Center

One of the highlights of iOS 18 is the ability to customize your Control Center directly from the Control Center itself:

• Edit Controls: Long press in a blank area or tap the plus icon to enter edit mode. Here, you can rearrange controls and add or remove features as you see fit.
• Resize Controls: If you frequently use Background Sounds, consider making the control larger for easier access.

A Shortcut to Settings

A handy tip: Long press on the Background Sounds control in the Control Center, and you’ll see an option to jump directly to the Background Sounds settings. This shortcut saves time and effort, especially when navigating through multiple menus.

In conclusion, iOS 18’s Background Sounds feature offers a seamless way to enhance your iPhone experience, whether you’re aiming to boost productivity or simply enjoy some peace and quiet. By integrating this feature into your daily routine, you’ll find that your iPhone becomes not just a tool, but a source of comfort and focus.

I hope you find this guide helpful as you explore the new possibilities with iOS 18. Enjoy the sounds and the tranquility they bring to your day!

Looking for Background Sounds with iOS 17 or older? Take a look at this video.