The latest iteration of Apple’s iOS is the best ever! We have had the time to look at some of the new features, such as a dedicated dark mode, optimized battery charging, and improved privacy controls, and are confident that many iOS enthusiasts are going to love it. And although there is still more to learn about the June 3 release (it’s still too early), we have been able to sample some of the fantastic new additions. In this article, we share with you 11 hidden features we love in iOS 13 and iPadOS.
1. Dark Mode
iOS 13 now has a system-wide dark mode option that is an alternative to the default light mode option that has been available in previous versions of iOS. Once applied, the dark mode changes the look of everything, including Apple’s apps. It is also accompanied by special wallpapers that can be adjusted from light to dark.
2. Optimized Battery Charging
Optimized battery charging is one of those features that was widely expected. In the recent years, Apple has been on a mission to optimize everything and is intent on making iOS 13, the fastest and most energy efficient mobile operating system ever.
The new power saving feature aims to prolong your battery life by preventing the battery from charging to 100%. This is important because most people charge their phones overnight and continue charging it even at full charge. Over time, this destroys the phone’s battery and reduces its overall lifespan. Apple’s solution to this situation is to keep the phone’s battery at 80% for most of the night and to add the extra 20% a few minutes before your alarm goes off.
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To access this new feature, go to Settings > Battery > Battery health.
3. Voice Search
iOS 13 now makes it possible to search for anything, including messages, apps, and settings with your voice. There is a voice icon anywhere a search bar appears and to access this feature, all you need is to tap on the icon.
4. iMessage Search
One of the coolest features of iOS 13 is iMessage Search. In the previous versions of the OS, searching through messages was a horrific experience because you had to scroll over each one of them to get to the one you are looking for. But with the iMessage search feature, all you have to do is to type a phrase or enter a word, and all relevant messages will be highlighted.
5. A New Way to Edit Photos
With iOS 13, Apple has managed to overhaul the Photo app by introducing new features and capabilities to the application. Users will now be able to curate their entire Photos library and to create a selection of highlights based on day, month, or year. The photos are also more intelligibly organized, making it easier to relive favorite moments.
iOS 13 also integrates the photo editing tool with video editing and lets you crop, rotate, and add filters to videos. In the Camera app, users will be able to make Portrait Lighting adjustment by moving the light closer or further away to get the perfect shot.
6. iMessage and Facetime Gain Dual SIM Support
One of the handiest hidden features of iOS 13 and iPadOS is the dual sim support for iMessage and FaceTime. With this support, it will be easier for users to switch between carriers and to conveniently travel around the world and do business without the need to carry two phones or incur expensive roaming fees.
7. Delete Apps from the Update Screen
With iOS 13, it is now possible to delete apps from the update screen. This ability is handy considering that most people download apps on their phones and rarely interact with them, except when they are notified of automatic updates. When you see such an update of an app that you no longer need, all you have to do is to swipe across the left and then tap Delete.
8. Connect Your iPhone or iPad to a Mouse
It is now possible to use a mouse or trackpad to navigate your phone or tablet. This navigation option also comes with the possibility of creating shortcuts for specific tasks. To enable mouse controls on your iOS device, go to Settings > Accessibility> Touch > Assistive Touch (turn this on) > Pointing Devices. From here, you can do your customization.
9. Read Messages Aloud with Siri
One of the really cool hidden features you need to try on iOS 13 is having your messages read aloud by Siri. You can also dictate a reply to the voice assistant without the need to type a thing. This feature can be enabled for select contacts.
To make use of this feature, go to Settings > Notification > Announce Messages with Siri. From here, you can make your customizations.
10. Remove App Size Limitations on Cellular Data
With iOS 13, you can download files that exceed 1GB with your cellular data plan. This is a big deal to gamers and movie enthusiasts who usually rely on a Wi-Fi connection to make the downloads.
To remove the restrictions, navigate to Settings > iTunes & App Store > App Downloads. From here, you can now get rid of the limit.
11. New Privacy Features
iOS 13 has some very cool privacy features. For instance, there is a new Sign-in with Apple option that offers a convenient and data-safe way to login to apps and websites. You will also be able to authenticate your account via Touch ID or Face ID. To keep off any prying eyes, Apple will give app developers a fake random ID as opposed to your real one.
To further enhance user privacy, iOS 13 can generate single-use email addresses for registering into apps and websites which means that you no longer have to use your real email address whenever you are registering for an online service.
And that closes our list of the hidden features you need to know on iOS 13, but the following other features also require some honorable mention; an updated Maps app, an overhaul of CarPlay, easier text editing and location restrictions that prevent apps from getting your location data.
If you are a fan of Apple, know that this is a busy year for the company. There is going to be a lot of new updates and releases. To prepare your devices, especially your Mac for the coming updates, consider cleaning it with a reliable repair tool such as Mac repair app. That way, you can make the most of the new features because of your computer’s improved performance.
If you know of any cooler iOS 13 features, please share in the comment section below.