This sneaky new music feature in iOS 18.4 is actually a hidden gem

So, here’s the scoop on iOS 18.4. Apple has dropped a new feature that’s flying under the radar but could totally change how you use your device. It’s the Ambient Music feature. Right now, it’s tucked away in the Control Center, offering ambient music with just a tap. It’s more than just entertainment—it’s got productivity and relaxation benefits too.

iOS 18.4 is in beta testing. Apple released it earlier this week, so a public release might happen soon.

How it works

Apple is giving us some options with this feature. The Ambient Music feature offers four themes: Chill, Productivity, Sleep, and Wellbeing. Each theme comes with curated playlists. The cool part? You can customize it by selecting which playlist starts when you tap a toggle. Apple supplies four options per theme, and you can even add your picks.

Once your ambient tunes are up and running, a hidden ‘Ambient Music’ app pops up in your Dynamic Island or Control Center. From there, you manage what’s playing, skip tracks, or AirPlay it to your speaker.

Improvements I’d like to see

This feature is a solid starting point. I love using it as it is, but there’s room for growth. Currently, it’s only available on iPhone and iPad. Macs are left out for now. Although macOS has “Background Sounds” as an accessibility feature, it’s just not up to par with iOS and iPadOS 18.4.

A standalone app would make a world of difference. A dedicated app would save you from hopping through multiple Control Center toggles. With Shazam as a dedicated app now, Ambient Music deserves that status too.

This feature is a pleasant surprise in iOS 18.4. I dig it and am excited for it to expand to Mac. I’d probably use it more often there. A dedicated app would be the cherry on top.

If you’re not on Apple Music yet, subscribing could unlock a full music experience for you.

Consider potential drawbacks

Now, while this sounds great, there are some things to consider. You might need an Apple Music subscription to really get the most out of this feature. Some folks in the beta testing phase have hit a few snags. Keep that in mind if you’re thinking about trying it out.

Other apps like Spotify and Google Home have similar options too. They offer curated playlists and ambient sounds. So, you might want to check them out and see how they stack up.

FAQs

How to use ambient music on iOS 18.4?

Using ambient music on iOS 18.4 is simple. Start by heading to the Control Center on your iPhone or iPad. Look for the Ambient Music feature there. You’ll see themes like Chill, Productivity, Sleep, and Wellbeing. Tap the theme you want, and the curated playlist for that theme starts. You can customize playlists and even add your own choices. After you select your ambient music, a hidden ‘Ambient Music’ app will appear. You can manage your music, skip tracks, and use AirPlay to enjoy sound on other devices too.

How can ambient music improve productivity?

Ambient music can be a game-changer for productivity. It sets a backdrop that can help with focus and mood. Imagine putting on a relaxing playlist while working. The music drowns out distractions and helps you concentrate. The right background music can enhance your work efficiency. It reduces stress, so you’re not overwhelmed. It’s like having a calming presence while you get things done.

Summary

So, that’s the new ambient music feature in iOS 18.4. It’s a little hidden treasure that can jazz up your daily routine. The ability to choose playlists for different moods or tasks is pretty sweet. Next up, keep an eye out for its expansion to Mac and possibly a standalone app. If you’re mixing work and play, this might be your new go-to feature.